Just a few years ago, Doni and Bob Whitley lived an exciting and active lifestyle, traveling all over the world with Bob’s job. But after 30 happy years in their home located in Cumming, Georgia, the Whitleys realized they needed to make a change — they wanted to be closer to their two sons in East Cobb. After plenty of dedicated research, the couple chose Sterling Estates of East Cobb, a community that would support them with Bob’s recent Parkinson’s diagnosis — not to mention, offer a number of amenities and other resources to enrich their lives.
Open since September 2012, Sterling Estates is locally owned and managed by a group of partners “who have been in the senior living industry since 1988,” according to Mike Brown, partner. The philosophy at Sterling Estates is simple, yet nuanced pertaining to each resident: “We build and operate our communities to what we or our parents would personally want,” Brown explains.
The grounds at Sterling Estates are picturesque and spacious, with a neighborhood-like feel consisting of sidewalks, greenspaces, patios and courtyards. The East Cobb location (another is located in West Cobb) sits on more than 10 acres with 14 independent cottages, six more under construction and 90 apartments featuring various levels of assistance. Because life at Sterling Estates is about staying active, amenities include a 5,000-square-foot wellness center with an indoor heated saltwater pool; exercise facilities, including personalized classes; and a calendar full of fun activities for residents to take advantage of.
Take it from Lillian Mortimer, a happy resident who is 106 years young: In addition to swimming twice a week, exercising regularly, savoring the community’s beauty with long walks and frequently dining with a table of ladies, she has discovered she’s an artist. Now, she takes art classes twice a week. “I know it’s a great place to work at because it’s a great place to live. I’m very happy here,” she beams. “I’m very thankful.”
The Whitleys are swift to echo Lillian’s sentiments. “With Bob’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, the Wellness Center offered not only balance training, but a fitness program specifically designed to improve mobility, strength and stability,” Doni shares. She adds that living at Sterling Estates has allowed her to focus on her husband’s health as well as her own health, without the burden of daily tasks like cooking and cleaning. Both Doni and Bob are active in the community and are glad they chose Sterling Estates. “The love and support we feel daily ensures we made the right decision,” Doni says.
Resident happiness is part of what keeps Mike Brown and the rest of the Sterling Estates partners and staff working on the mission — and the local area in Cobb County has responded by awarding the community numerous accolades, such as the coveted Best of Cobb Award 5 years in a row, from 2019-2023 and winner of Taste of East Cobb 3 out of the last 5 years. “We are extremely proud and thankful for this achievement,” Brown points out. “We believe this recognition is a testament to the quality of our staff and to their dedication to our residents, as they deliver superior care and services to our residents living a ‘Sterling Life.’”
To learn more, visit sterlingestates.com.
