[ INSIDE HAWAII INC. ]
David Loop, new executive director for the senior living community Kahala Nui, stands next to the entrance of the complex.
New exec stresses
successful aging in Kahala
senior living communityIs Kahala Nui already sold out?
David A. Loop
>> Hired: New executive director of the senior living community Kahala Nui, which is under construction and will open in February.>> Tidbit: He is new to Hawaii
>> Experience: Formerly president and chief executive of Wesleyan Senior Living in Elyria, Ohio, where he oversaw the $70 million new construction and renovation of the community.
>> Age: 43
The project is proceeding very well. With regard to presales, we will be constructing 270 apartments, and at present, we are right near 230 reservations. So I think the response to the project has been extremely favorable, and I think so for a number of reasons. I think what is appealing to older adults is that this campus and location represents a community that will promote an active lifestyle. The location on Oahu, the way that the outdoors is included in our design. We have a wonderful location here in Kahala adjacent to shopping and many other services. Even though these 230 families are very interested in a lovely apartment environment, it's important for them to receive further care whether it be assisted living or health care as a traditional nursing home.
Are mainlanders interested?
Kahala Nui is attracting individuals from throughout the Hawaiian Islands and a significant number of people from the mainland. There are people throughout the continental United States, so I've seen names and address from the East Coast as well as the West Coast.
How have senior living communities changed? What are the industry trends?
The industry trends in senior living have to do with individuals seeking larger accommodations. At Kahala Nui, the sizes range from 800 square feet well up to 1,500... I think the trend in senior living is to have specialty units, and in our environment we will have not only a progressive assisted living area but a memory support, or dementia unit. In our health care center, we will be geared and tailored toward helping our residents who need rehab. Years ago, the trend was slow deterioration. Today, it's really a successful journey of lifelong aging.
What are your prices?
The prices vary on the size of the units and it's probably fair to say they start at $300,000 and go from there. The important element is we have a unique financial program. When the residents leave, they will be refunded 90 percent of what they've paid in. It's like a guaranteed resale if you will. There are also monthly fees that they pay to cover taxes, utilities etc. It starts at $1,800 and we go from there.
What are the typical start-up issues for communities like these?
With a new community, it's a wonderful opportunity to put people, systems and standards and guidelines in place that are contemporary for today. We will strive to find people who share service culture that we believe our residents will expect.
Can the local hospitality culture play into that?
Absolutely. I think our whole approach is the spirit of ohana. Our residents, associates, employees will be a family. The graciousness of the islands will be what we identify with and promote to its highest levels.
You gave a speech last year on "Optimizing Senior Living." What was it about?
I really just drive home lifelong learning and aging successfully. I believe that's centered around choice. When an older adult makes a decision, remains in control of where they live, receive care, that really is a way of optimizing their life journey. As we grow older, there are things we are unable to do -- when we lose control, we lose our personal healthiness. I think that it enables them to put their energy and time into things they truly enjoy doing. They don't have to worry about taking care of their yard, home repair. So there's burdens and issues that are worrisome that they can now have taken care of. You can continue to enjoy socialization with people. You can control your social calendar. I've been most impressed with folks in Kahala Nui. They are fascinating people. This morning I was with a resident, and she's still a professor at the University of Hawaii.
Inside Hawaii Inc. is a conversation with a member of the Hawaii business community who has changed jobs, been elected to a board or been recognized for accomplishments. Send questions and comments to business@starbulletin.com.
