Resident of K-B House Finds Perfect Home Base for a Life of Adventure

When Joan Geary had the chance to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey this year, leaving home was as simple as heading out for the evening. That ease is one of the greatest gifts of life at The Gardens at King Bruwaert House (K-B House) senior living community in Hinsdale/Burr Ridge. Joan is a lifelong world traveler who has taken trips large and small for decades, including extended stays away from home. Now her travel days are simpler than ever thanks to the lock-and-leave lifestyle K-B House offers.

The freedom to explore the world

Travel is central to Joan's life, and The Gardens' independent living at K-B House gives her the perfect home base to continue exploring with complete confidence. The journey she just returned from involved flying by private jet to exotic destinations including Fez, Morocco; Zanzibar, Tanzania; Siem Reap, Cambodia and more. "These are some of the most fabulous historic sites in the world. I loved them all. And our hotels, dining, and entertainment were all of a five-star quality,” she said.

In addition to adventurous trips, Joan spends half the year in Florida and never wonders what might be happening back home. The simplicity afforded her because of living at K-B House means that she does not have to worry about snow removal, landscaping, maintenance, mail, or anything. “I just walk out the door knowing my home is cared for. Everything is looked after, and I can leave without a single worry,” she said.

A lifetime of curiosity and connection

Joan's love of travel is matched by her love of people. A former high school history teacher, Montessori school founder, and general manager of the Hilton Hotel in Oak Lawn, she has always lived with curiosity. That spirit continues every day at The Gardens. "When I moved in, I decided I would have dinner with every resident and learn about them. I write notes on index cards. Everyone here has a story. They are all so interesting."

A lifestyle filled with warmth and involvement

Joan has quickly become an enthusiastic part of the community. "I love the camaraderie inherent in living at The Gardens. I am never ever alone," she said. She enjoys the vibrant lifestyle, the friendships, and the simple joy of being surrounded by people who share her energy. She even helped create a weekly Single Ladies Night dinner, a lively gathering that brings women together for conversation and fun.

A new beginning in a familiar place

When Joan decided to move to The Gardens at K B House, she was not simply relocating; she was stepping into an entirely new way of living. As one of the very first residents of The Gardens, the new independent living homes connected to the main building at K B House, she saw an opportunity for comfort, connection, and a fresh start while staying rooted in Hinsdale, the community she had called home for nearly fifty years.

A thoughtfully and elegantly designed community

The beauty and thoughtful design of The Gardens made an immediate impression. "It is a brand-new building in a community that has been here a long long time," Joan said. "Everything in The Gardens is new and the architectural design is beautiful. It exceeds expectations and complements the original building. It is warm, friendly, and beautiful."

The amenities are another highlight. Joan especially loves Edmonds, the dining venue. "It was an unexpected pleasure and one of the very best parts of the addition," she said.

Thriving in every way

Today, Joan feels more alive than ever. "I laugh more and have more fun on a daily basis than during any other time of my life," she said. "I love being with people. I love everything I do. I love to be busy."

"The older I get, the more outgoing I become. Maybe I have simply grown more confident and more aware of just how much life there is to enjoy. I wake up every morning, look around at where I am and where I get to live. I wake up happy and knowing I am a fortunate woman."

For Joan Geary, The Gardens at K B House is more than a beautiful home. It is a joyful, fulfilling, and enriching new chapter filled with meaning, connection, freedom, and community.

King-Bruwaert House

Ideally located in what has been called one of the best places to retire in Illinois by Niche.com, King-Bruwaert House senior living community has been gracing Hinsdale/Burr Ridge since 1933. The beautiful 35-acre campus includes independent living in The Gardens of King-Bruwaert House new luxury apartment homes and The Woods of King-Bruwaert House cottages. As an elegant and dignified Life Plan Community offering all levels of care, the campus also has access to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Less than two miles away in Hinsdale is Godair Park, King-Bruwaert House’s single-story rental duplex homes overlooking Ruth Lake Country Club. For additional information, visit www.KingBruwaert.org or call 630-216-8659. King-Bruwaert House is located at 6101 S. County Line Road in Burr Ridge.