Villa Maria

Pros

• The staff are very nice and friendly, and staff and visitors treat residents with respect, making them feel at home.
• The retirement apartments are great, featuring beautiful gardens and large windows in the units.
• The grandfather recently moved in and really loves it.

Cons

• They never answer the phone or return calls, making it seem like they are only there to collect rent.

Review

There is a blend of impressions about this retirement community, with voices that highlight both challenges and charms. One reviewer expresses frustration with communication, noting that phone calls aren't answered and suggesting that the staff's focus may feel more like rent collection than resident care. This view stands in contrast to other firsthand accounts, but it anchors the sense that how a place handles outreach and responsiveness can strongly color the overall experience.

In contrast to the communication worry, several remarks celebrate the warmth and friendliness that permeate the community. The space is described as very nice and the people - staff and visitors alike - are said to treat residents with respect, creating an atmosphere where people feel valued and welcome. This kind of courteous, considerate interaction helps residents settle in and feel at home, which is often just as important as the physical amenities when it comes to daily life in a senior living setting.

The apartments themselves are praised for their light and airiness. Reviewers specifically mention "beautiful gardens" and units with large windows, suggesting that natural light and access to outdoor views play a significant role in the appeal. Such design features not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to a sense of openness and well-being, making common spaces and private rooms feel brighter and more inviting.

Family connections appear to add an extra layer of comfort for residents and their families. One reviewer notes that their grandfather moved in about two weeks ago and really loves it, which implies a smooth transition and a positive impression of the community's routines, safety, and social life. When a new resident feels genuinely content so quickly, it often signals that the environment has depth beyond surface amenities and that day-to-day interactions support a pleasant living experience.

In addition, another family member is mentioned as living nearby within the same community. This detail hints at a built-in support network and a sense of continuity for families who want to maintain close ties while ensuring their loved ones have a secure, engaging place to live. Having relatives in the same place or in close proximity can be reassuring for both the residents and their families, contributing to a stable and connected living experience.

There is also a note about a photo accompanying the reviews, which suggests that visual context is available to prospective residents. While the image itself isn't described here, the presence of a picture often helps convey the feel of the surroundings - the greenery of the gardens, the layout of the common areas, or the overall ambiance. Photographs can offer a tangible sense of whether the space aligns with personal preferences for light, layout, and community activity.

Overall, the collection of remarks paints a nuanced portrait. The strongest positives center on kindness, respect, and the tangible charm of a well-lit environment with garden views. The most pointed critique centers on communication, urging potential residents to verify responsiveness and to consider how calls and inquiries are handled before making any commitments. For someone weighing retirement living options, this blend of warmth and practical concern provides a clear picture: a welcoming, aesthetically pleasing community that could be an excellent home for many, with a key area to watch - how well it stays connected and responsive to residents' needs over time.

This part of Birmingham, Alabama offers a diverse range of amenities that cater to the needs of senior citizens. With multiple parks nearby such as East Lake and Beacon Park, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. In addition, there are numerous places of worship in close proximity, providing spiritual support and community connections. Access to pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens ensures easy access to medication and healthcare services. The variety of restaurants, cafes, and transportation options make it convenient for seniors to socialize, dine out, and travel around the area. Furthermore, the presence of reputable physicians and hospitals like Saint Vincent's East and UAB Hospital ensure top-notch medical care within a short distance. Overall, this part of Birmingham is well-equipped to provide a comfortable living environment for seniors looking for a vibrant and supportive community.

Parks

• East Lake (0.3 miles)
• Beacon Park (2.8 miles)
• Avondale Park (4.4 miles)
• Rotary Trail (6.3 miles)
• Railroad Park (6.6 miles)

Places of Worship

• East Lake United Methodist Church (0.6 miles)
• South Roebuck Baptist Church (1.5 miles)
• McElwain Baptist Church (3.4 miles)
• The Worship Center Christian Church Huffman-Derby Campus (3.9 miles)
• Levite Jewish Community Center (4.4 miles)
• Church of the Highlands (4.9 miles)
• Canterbury United Methodist Church (5.8 miles)

Pharmacies

• Mills Discount Pharmacy (1.8 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)
• Walgreens (2 miles)
• Guardian Pharmacy (2.3 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
• Walgreens (2.8 miles)
• Winn-Dixie (3.2 miles)

Restaurants

• Burger King (1.9 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (2.1 miles)
• McDonald's (2.4 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (2.7 miles)
• Zaxby's (2.9 miles)
• Milos - Eastwood (2.9 miles)
• The Filling Station (3.1 miles)

Transportation

• Runway (2 miles)
• Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) (2.1 miles)
• Concourse C (2.2 miles)

Physicians

• Pediatrics East (2.5 miles)
• Miles & Schmitt MD PC (3.5 miles)
• Ginsburg Dermatology Center-Montclair (3.6 miles)
• Alabama Psychiatric Services PC (3.6 miles)
• Advanced Internal Medicine (3.8 miles)
• Sleep Disorders Center of Alabama (4.1 miles)
• Baptist Health System (5.2 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (2.7 miles)
• The Red Cat (5.5 miles)
• Panera Bread (6 miles)
• Green Acres Cafe Centerpoint (6.1 miles)
• Continental Bakery (6.1 miles)
• The Essential (6.2 miles)
• Starbucks (6.3 miles)

Hospitals

• Saint Vincents East Saint Vincents Health System (3.4 miles)
• Ascension St Vincent's East Endocrinology (3.5 miles)
• Ascension St Vincent’s Birmingham (5.8 miles)
• UAB Spain-Wallace Building (6.4 miles)
• UAB Hospital (6.5 miles)
• Women & Infants Center (6.6 miles)
• Callahan Eye Foundation Hospital (6.6 miles)