A Tribute to Art Linkletter
Over the course of the last six years, some of our clients would ask about getting a big-name speaker to help build leads for their community. Art Linkletter seemed to always fit the bill. He had name recognition, and was liked by everyone. And who wouldn’t like him? Mr. Linkletter had one of those personalities that was genuine. He loved telling stories from his unbelievable career. And he was a man who truly believed in the product of senior living communities. He didn’t need to be convinced about the benefits of moving to a senior living community.
He would use his own life as an example of staying active and socially connected. He would tell audiences of older adults and adult children alike that life in a senior living community was one of the best choices someone could make. But in true fashion, he did it in a manner that was entertaining. No one walked away without a morning or afternoon of laughter. And while Alzheimer’s is a serious disease that affects so many, Mr. Linkletter even brought a bit of laughter about that topic, too. Here is one of his stories:
While presenting to a group of older adults at a senior living community, Mr. Linkletter said he noticed a woman sitting in the front row, just smiling and nodding her head the whole time. When he finished, he walked up to her and handed her an autographed photo and said, “Do you know who I am?” She told him, “No, but if you go to the front desk, they’ll tell you!”
Stories like that always brought a chuckle, but then he turned that moment into a way to share information about the latest news about Alzheimer’s research. Always a true professional.
Mr. Linkletter passed away this week at the age of 97. He lived a very full life, and senior living lost a true advocate.
A beautiful tribute! The Buckingham in Houston was one of the fortunate communities that had the opportunity to host Art Linkletter, and it was a wonderful memory that all of us in the audience will treasure.
What a wonderful man to have known. I am enlightened by reading his story and am saddened about the recent news..
I am always looking for good speakers, especially ones like Mr.Linkletter. I would love to know of great speakers; especially for our families of residents and those researching their options for loved ones.
Tori: send me an email with your contact information and let’s talk about speakers! reilts@glynndevins.com
I am really glad I had a chance to read about him.
While presenting to a group of older adults at a senior living community, Mr. Linkletter said he noticed a woman sitting in the front row, just smiling and nodding her head the whole time. When he finished, he walked up to her and handed her an autographed photo and said, “Do you know who I am?” She told him, “No, but if you go to the front desk, they’ll tell you!”
I love it!