Choosing Concordia at Sumner
On June 1, former Solon resident Frank Tinus moved to Copley’s Concordia at Sumner after extensive research into Northeast Ohio retirement communities. Here’s what he learned and why he chose Concordia:
Frank Tinus, 79, moved to Concordia at Sumner on his own terms and at his own pace—before a future health decline could limit his options and put stress on his family.
When Solon resident Frank Tinus, 79, decided it was time to move to a retirement community, he applied his business acumen and engineering background to approach the decision just as he would a strategic business plan.
Born in New Jersey and educated at the University of Notre Dame—including a master’s in mechanical engineering—Frank wanted to choose a new place to live on his own timeline, while he was healthy.
He ultimately chose Concordia at Sumner in Copley, but not without extensive research that Mimi felt could benefit many of her readers. She sat down with Frank a few days before he moved into Concordia in early June:
Mimi: What made you realize it was time to start considering an independent living facility?
Frank: I wanted to start investigating now, while there is no pressure or urgency. I realize I’m getting older and am not as capable as I once was. I wanted peace of mind for myself and to make things as easy as possible for my family before I age and experience further diminished capabilities.
Mimi: Tell us how you came to choose Concordia at Sumner.
Frank: First, I engaged a consultant who specializes in helping make these kinds of decisions. She spent time interviewing me about my likes and dislikes, then developed a list of seven facilities around Northeast Ohio that might fit my needs. So, I visited every one of them.
Mimi: What exactly were you looking for?
Frank: The big four items were price, opportunities to participate in activities, location, and the overall feel of the place. Regarding price, I didn’t want to sign away my assets or make a six-figure down payment. That’s what most places require. Concordia is a nonprofit and offers flexible payment options, including a zero-down option. I chose that one because I didn’t want to feel locked in. I doubt it will ever happen, but I can leave anytime I want.
I’m still active. At Concordia, there are plenty of activities here, but I’m also close to off-campus parks and golf courses. And it’s easy to get in and out. Other places were on busy roads with lots of traffic zooming by. Here, I can easily pull out and be on my way without waiting for a gap in traffic.
Mimi: What do you mean by “the feel of the place?”
Frank: Several things. I want to feel relaxed whenever I enter and leave. The buildings and grounds here are beautiful. I love how it feels as I’m leaving the community and how I feel when I come home. Plus, when I have guests, I want them to experience the same thing. I want others to be impressed by where I live, and I want to feel proud of it. And I love getting up in the morning and going outside.
I also wanted my living space to feel much more diverse than just my room. I have full access to everything, so even though I only have an apartment, it feels like I’m living in a mansion. There are nooks and crannies with tables and couches on every floor, so there’s always a different place to read or relax. And there’s a bistro, a swimming pool, a bar, a fitness room, a game room and more. In the winter, I can walk 3 miles and never leave the building.
By “the feel of the place,” I also mean there is a certain spirit and culture to it. You can feel it in the staff. They are a team, not individuals. They know each resident’s name and keep up with their lives. I know I’ll be treated like one of the team, not just a customer.
And since I couldn’t get my keys until move-in day, they gave me a storage area for my things, and it’s mine forever. It’s perfect for Christmas trees, my toolbox, and seasonal clothing.
Mimi: Is there anything else that attracted you to Concordia?
Frank: Yes, Chef Francine’s food. During my tour, they hosted a culinary tasting called Francine’s Cuisine. They invited residents to sample potential new menu items and share their opinions. I had to waddle out of there!
After the interview with Frank Tinus, Mimi spoke with Marketing Director Rowena Wilkins. “Frank is a wonderful addition to our community,” she says. “He told us from the beginning he wanted to be active and involved. He’s going to be well-liked here.”
Rowena also mentioned that Frank was smart in his decision-making. “Sometimes people wait too long to reach a decision, then they’re under pressure and there’s a waiting list,” she says. “Frank took his time and did his research, and he didn’t wait until he was unable to do things. Now he can travel, volunteer, attend education seminars and go to Guardians games. He’s even going to participate in our upcoming cornhole tournament to benefit Alzheimer’s.”
Concordia at Sumner
970 Sumner Pkwy., Copley
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