Arlington of Naples Resident Proves Adventure Has No Age Limit

While many people slowdown in retirement, Arlington of Naples resident Dr. Gail Cacciola is speeding up. Gail is a proud former resident of Marco Island and a civic-minded leader who remains deeply committed to serving her community. 

A retired nursing professor, nurse practitioner, and parish nurse, Gail has transformed her retirement years into a series of global adventures, traveling to some of the world's most remote and fascinating destinations. Since resuming travel after the pandemic, she has averaged five major international trips each year, exploring destinations including Indonesia, Rwanda, Nepal, Egypt, and across Africa. 

Gail's journeys have taken her trekking to see mountain gorillas in Rwanda, visiting orangutans in Borneo, encountering Komodo dragons in Indonesia, and experiencing cultures and traditions around the globe. Her travels have not only broadened her perspective but also reinforced the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures, beliefs, and ways of life. 

When she returns home to The Arlington, Gail shares her experiences through her popular "Travels with Gail" presentations. Rather than simply showing photos, she brings destinations to life through storytelling, humor, and cultural experiences, often serving beverages inspired by the regions she has visited. Her presentations regularly draw dozens of residents eager to hear about her latest adventures. 

Gail credits life at The Arlington with helping make her travels possible. 

"Living at The Arlington has been a transformer for me," Gail said. "The freedom from home maintenance and everyday responsibilities gives me the opportunity to keep exploring, learning, and experiencing the world." 

For Gail, purposeful living means continuing to grow, stay active, and embrace new opportunities. Whether she's planning her next trip to Africa, leading a presentation for fellow residents, or participating in fitness classes and community activities, she believes life is meant to be fully lived. 

"Today is the day," Gail said. "We've worked hard, we've planned, we've saved. Now it's time to enjoy it." 

Join The Arlington of Naples for our Senior Health & Wellness Expo on Wednesday, July 15, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. 

Enjoy a day dedicated to health, wellness, and active aging, featuring more than 30 exhibitors offering valuable information, resources, screenings, and services designed to help older adults live healthy, active lives. 

In partnership with Our Daily Bread Food Pantry, we invite attendees to support our 250 Cans for 250 Years community food drive. Help us celebrate America's 250th anniversary by donating canned goods and giving back to neighbors in need. 

This event is free and open to area seniors, but pre-registration is required.