Flipping the Script on Aging at John Knox Village

Age Is Just a Number: Flipping the Script on Aging at John Knox Village

At John Knox Village, aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about showing up. Whether it’s joining a new activity, learning something unexpected, or forming strong new bonds, our residents are living proof that vitality, curiosity, and connection don’t fade with time—they grow.

Every day, members of our community are rewriting what it means to age well. Their stories remind us that attitude, engagement, and purpose are powerful tools for living fully, at any age.

Meet Mike Morkert

Mike Morkert has lived at John Knox Village for more than three years, and in that time, he’s become known as an encourager—a role he takes seriously and with heart.

“When I moved here, I thought I was too young, and what I realized is that there is a lot I can be involved in and do here. One of those things is to be an encourager,” Mike said. “Encouragement is extremely important, and especially with older adults. My passion and mission is to let my neighbors and fellow residents know that there is a lot that they CAN still do, it doesn’t matter your age. You can do something!”

With a career in and love for music, Mike has organized several drumming groups—some for his neighborhood and others for the broader community. These groups have sparked connection and confidence for many residents.

“What I’ve seen through the drum groups and just organizing different events and activities for our neighborhood is that people who normally would stay to themselves are now getting out, neighbors are checking on each other,” he said. “And I see them smiling and caring about each other. That’s what it’s about. We came here to live, not just sit back and let life just pass us by.”

Meet Lynn Varvaro

Lynn Varvaro brings a radiant energy to the Village—one rooted in a whole-person approach to wellness.

“My body may be aging, but my spirit and my mind are not dying, they are blossoming,” Lynn said. “Really, this is the best time of my life. I am able to do that by connecting with others through the lifelong learning classes, group discussion, the fitness classes, and especially music. I feel energized by living my senior years at the Village.”

She embraces a plant-based lifestyle, walks regularly, and is a frequent presence in our fitness centers. Lynn even learned to play the recorder after moving to the Village and now plays in the Villager Recorder Consort.

“The Village has become our family, and what a gift it has been to be here,” she added. “Life is for enjoying, sharing, and not letting it pass you by. You can learn anything at any age; make those connections and be involved!”

Meet Virginia Levin

At 99, Virginia Levin lives with more enthusiasm and engagement than many half her age.

“I want to enjoy life and do all the things that I can for as long as I can,” Virginia said. “You should see my calendar—it is so full, and I love every bit of it. While my eyesight makes doing many things difficult, I enjoy being creative in finding ways to do things that I can do. I think it’s important to adapt to your abilities—and continue to live fully.”

Though her hobbies have changed over the years, her thirst for learning hasn’t. She participates in discussion groups, helped launch a TED Talks group over 15 years ago, and thrives on engaging in deep conversations with neighbors.

“I just love coming to the groups and hearing someone say—‘Oh here comes trouble!’ That just makes my day,” she laughed. “I love to have good conversations and learn and have fun.”

She still enjoys gardening, shared meals with friends, and maintains her health through swimming and healthy eating.

Living Fully, No Matter the Age

These stories are just a glimpse into what’s possible when aging is embraced. Age is just a number at John Knox Village, and living well is our way of life.

About John Knox Village 

John Knox Village is a leader in senior care in Lee’s Summit and the greater Kansas City region. The community boasts a diverse range of living options from free-standing homes and apartment homes to villas. With more than 700,000 square feet of common space across the beautiful campus, you’ll find more opportunities and experiences right outside your door.

If you’re exploring senior living options in Lee’s Summit or the Kansas City area, we’d love to show you all that John Knox Village has to offer. Contact us today or call (816) 251-8000 to schedule a visit.