Dr. Carleton S. Guptill Honored for Positive Aging

Nov. 6, 2017  — As a sociology professor, Dr. Carleton S. Guptill studied the science of aging for three decades after receiving his BA and MA degrees from Emory and a Ph.D. from Duke. Now at age 88, Lenbrook resident Dr. Guptill has been recognized for his own personal demonstration of positive aging by LeadingAge Georgia at its 7th Annual Profiles in Positive Aging Awards Gala. 

“Each year we recognize and celebrate individuals who continue to contribute to their communities at every stage in life,” said Jacquelyn Thornton, senior vice president of LeadingAge Georgia. “Our honorees show us what it means to continue engaging in life and making a positive impact on others.” Twenty-three Georgia elders were recognized this year.

 

Life after retirement for Dr. Guptill has been anything but shy and retiring. An avid musician with a commanding voice from an early age, Dr. Guptill played French horn with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra for about 15 years as one of its founding members. He continues his musical endeavors today, sharing his beautiful tenor voice both in his church choir and with a singing group of over 20 at Lenbrook, the life plan community where he and his wife Fay have made their home since 2010. 

 

“I see Carleton redefining aging with every move he makes,” said Robbye Jarrell, Chaplain at Lenbrook. “He’s never been one to sit on the sidelines. He’s been active in our Friends of the Arts Committee since 2010 and has headed our Religion Committee for over five years. He and his wife also organize Lenbrook’s beloved “Birthday Bash” dinner and celebration every month. He continues to unpack all the gifts that this time of life can bring,” Jarrell said. 

 

Also recognized at the LeadingAge awards gala held on Nov. 5 was the year’s Positive Aging Icon Image Award winner Mel Pender, age 80. An Olympic gold medalist, decorated war veteran, entrepreneur and community leader, Pender firmly believes, “To whom much is given, much is required.” Raised in an impoverished home in Atlanta’s segregated Lynwood Park neighborhood, Pender speaks to youth groups across the city and country, emphasizing, “Dreams can come true. But once success is achieved, you must reach back and help another child succeed.” 

Dr. Guptill shares a similar sentiment, which came from his father who served as a Methodist missionary in Africa. “

 

Located in Buckhead, Lenbrook (http://www.lenbrook-atlanta.org) is a nationally accredited life plan community dedicated to enabling its residents to enjoy the gifts of independence, good health and personal fulfillment through enriching programs and services. With independent living residences, personal care suites and healthcare suites, Lenbrook offers an engaging lifestyle and a full continuum of care on campus. Its Health Center is rated five stars by Medicare and also recognized as five stars in U.S. News & World Report’s 2016/17 Best Nursing Homes Report. Visit www.lenbrook-atlanta.org.