Kendal At Oberlin

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Kendal At Oberlin

600 Kendal Drive, Oberlin, OH 44074

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.6 from 54 reviews
5 stars
42
4 stars
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3 stars
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1
1 stars
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Assisted Living Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Independent Living Memory Care Respite Care Skilled Nursing Facility

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    Overall Review of Kendal At Oberlin

    Pros

    • pro Kendal at Oberlin is a remarkably comfortable community with attentive staff and excellent facilities.
    • pro The dining program features food prepared to order, generous portions, and a friendly waitstaff.
    • pro The campus offers a rich array of activities, including painting classes, a library and book club, and theater programs.
    • pro The setting is beautiful and well-maintained, with clean grounds and helpful employees.
    • pro Residents enjoy a lively, engaged community with continuing care options and many lectures, concerts, and campus events.
    • pro The atmosphere feels like a family, with a caring staff and a strong sense of belonging.
    • pro The location in a college town adds cultural value through faculty lectures and conservatory performances.
    • pro It's described as an upscale retirement experience that remains vibrant and welcoming.

    Cons

    • pro Kendal at Oberlin is described as very expensive, with a high buy-in, a very high monthly bill, and no possibility to sell the entry.
    • pro The food is said to have gone downhill, is very bland, and the healthcare needs improvement.
    • pro It is only suitable for healthy and mobile residents; it is not good for those who are ill or frail.
    • pro The houses are not organized, and there is no easy way to find an address.
    • pro The pay structure appears unfair, with some staff feeling underpaid and unlistened to, and managers receiving higher pay.
    • pro There are many issues with this place, more than expected, including communication and care problems.
    • pro It is not worth the time or money until issues are fixed.
    • pro It is far more expensive than what some prospective residents can afford.
    • pro Some reviewers believe that any positive mentions are incorrect and advise choosing other Kendal locations.
    • pro Living there is described as a waste of time and money.

    Review

    Kendal At Oberlin is best suited for financially comfortable seniors who want an upscale, culturally rich living environment tied to a college town. This community thrives on active engagement, with a structure that rewards residents who value programming, social clubs, and proximity to Oberlin College's lectures, concerts, and performances. It is ideal for those who can afford a meaningful, all-included lifestyle and who will take full advantage of amenities, on-site care options, and the robust resident-driven activity matrix. Families should expect a long-term commitment: the upfront buy-in and ongoing monthly costs are substantial even for a continuum-care setting. Those on tighter budgets or seeking a simpler, lower-cost option should consider alternatives.

    The daily life here is anchored by strong dining, generous living spaces, and a genuinely active social calendar. Food is consistently praised for flavor and customization, with attentive dining room staff who can prepare meals to order. The living accommodations are notably roomy, with bathrooms that accommodate wheelchairs, which makes a tangible difference for residents who are not fully mobile. Beyond the plate and the room, Kendal At Oberlin shines in creating a residence-as-campus atmosphere: painting classes, an active library and book clubs, and theatrical programs sit alongside frequent lectures and musical recitals drawn from Oberlin's vibrant academic and conservatory scenes. The campus setting amplifies opportunities to learn, perform, and connect, often making it feel like an extended, well-resourced cultural community.

    On the care and community side, the environment is consistently described as welcoming and well-staffed, with a sense of family among residents and staff. The facility is clean and well maintained, set on beautiful grounds that blend naturally with Oberlin's townscape. Residents report a supportive culture where committees and interest groups are resident-led, contributing to a sense of ownership and belonging. The combined housing, dining, and care services are portrayed as first-rate for those who can afford them, with many describing Kendal as a place where "care for residents who are ill or frail" exists, though within the constraints of the overall price and care model. It is difficult to overstate the resonance of the intimate feeling many residents report - a long-term home that feels curated, inclusive, and educational.

    Still, the reviews do not omit friction. The most persistent caveat is cost: Kendal At Oberlin sits at a high price point, with a buy-in that is not recoverable and monthly charges that can become a barrier for many families. For some, the premium is justified by the scale of services and lifestyle richness; for others, the value proposition collapses when health needs deepen or when financial flexibility is constrained. A portion of reviews also signal concerns about the trajectory of dining quality, occasional healthcare limitations for advanced needs, and administrative or operational strains - threads that, in tougher times, can color the overall experience. In short, the upsides far outweigh the cons for the right audience, but the financial and care-specific risk factors may tilt the balance for those who anticipate frequent medical or mobility changes.

    Who should consider alternatives? Families with tighter budgets or those prioritizing predictability and straightforward, lower-cost care should look elsewhere. Prospects who anticipate needing substantial or specialized healthcare services beyond what the on-site team can sustain in the near term may find Kendal's model misaligned with current needs. Those who prefer a more independent, less campus-centered lifestyle, or who dislike the college-town ecosystem, may also feel associations with Kendal's offerings are not a perfect fit. Even with strong positives, several reviews suggest that not every resident will experience the same level of value, so it's prudent to compare several options side by side before committing.

    In the end, Kendal At Oberlin stands out as an exceptional choice for discerning seniors who prize culture, continuous learning, and a built-in community anchored by a nonprofit mission. It delivers an unusually rich array of programming, a collegial atmosphere, and accommodations that honor mobility and comfort. The decision hinges on cost tolerance and care needs: for those who can absorb the buy-in and ongoing fees and who trust the on-site care complement to family support, Kendal offers a compelling, almost collegiate senior lifestyle. For others, pragmatic trade-offs favor exploring more affordable or less healthcare-intensive options that still honor independence and social engagement.

    Features

    Housing

    • 37 resident community capacity 37 resident community capacity

    Types of Care

    • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
    • Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are important for seniors because they provide a range of housing options and care services all in one location. This allows seniors to age in place and receive the level of care they need as their health changes, without having to move to a new facility. CCRCs provide a sense of security and peace of mind for seniors and their families, knowing that they will be taken care of no matter what the future holds.
    • Independent Living Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
    • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.
    • Respite Care Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.
    • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

    Amenities

    • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
    • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
    • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
    • Devotional services off-site Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
    • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
    • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
    • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
    • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
    • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
    • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
    • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.

    Transportation

    • Cleveland-Hopkins International (20 miles away) Cleveland-Hopkins International (20 miles away)
    • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
    • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.

    Care Services

    • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
    • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
    • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
    • Ambulatory care Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
    • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
    • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
    • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
    • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
    • Diabetic care Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
    • High acuity care High acuity careHigh acuity care is important for seniors because it provides specialized medical attention and support for individuals with complex medical needs. This level of care ensures that seniors receive the appropriate treatment and assistance to maintain their health and quality of life as they age.
    • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
    • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
    • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

    Dining

    • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
    • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
    • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

    Activities

    • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
    • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
    • Devotional activities offsite Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
    • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

    Description

    Kendal At Oberlin in Oberlin, OH is a comprehensive assisted living community that provides a range of care services to meet the unique needs of its residents. As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), it offers various levels of care including Independent Living, Memory Care, Respite Care, and Skilled Nursing Facility.

    Residents at Kendal At Oberlin can enjoy a wide array of amenities that enhance their quality of life. These amenities include a beauty salon, cable or satellite TV for entertainment, devotional services off-site for spiritual fulfillment, fully furnished living spaces for convenience, beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces to unwind in, and housekeeping services to maintain a clean and comfortable environment.

    The community also ensures that residents have access to transportation arrangements for non-medical purposes such as shopping or social outings. Private bathrooms provide privacy and independence for residents, while move-in coordination assists with the transition into the community.

    At Kendal At Oberlin, care services are available around the clock to provide 24-hour supervision and assistance with a range of activities of daily living. This includes helping with bathing, dressing, transfers, medication management, ensuring special dietary restrictions are adhered to such as diabetes diet and providing high acuity care when needed.

    Meals at Kendal At Oberlin are provided to cater to individual dietary needs and preferences. Special dietary restrictions are accommodated to ensure each resident's nutritional needs are met.

    To keep residents engaged and socially connected, the community offers community-sponsored activities and scheduled daily activities. Additionally, devotional activities off-site provide opportunities for spiritual growth and connection.

    Located in Oberlin, OH, Kendal At Oberlin benefits from being surrounded by parks nearby where residents can enjoy nature. The community also has convenient access to pharmacies in the area as well as physicians' offices for medical care. Nearby restaurants offer dining options for those looking to explore different culinary experiences. Places of worship nearby allow residents to practice their faith.

    Overall, Kendal At Oberlin is a vibrant and inclusive assisted living community that provides exceptional care services, a wide range of amenities, and a supportive environment for residents to thrive.

    Videos

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Physicians

    • Kidz First Pediatrics (0.5 miles)
    • Lorain County Coroners Office (0.8 miles)
    • Whole Woman Holistic Gynecology (0.8 miles)
    • Akron Children's Hospital Pediatrics (0.9 miles)
    • Oberlin Hearing Care (0.9 miles)
    • Essel Emmanuel MD (0.9 miles)
    • Center For Orthopedics (0.9 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Finney Chapel (0.7 miles)
    • Second Baptist Church (6.2 miles)

    Restaurants

    • The Feve (0.9 miles)
    • Lorenzo's Pizzeria (0.9 miles)
    • McDonald's (1.3 miles)
    • Wendy's (2.6 miles)
    • Burger King (5.2 miles)
    • The Depot (6.1 miles)
    • McDonald's (6.2 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • CVS Pharmacy (1.3 miles)
    • Walmart Pharmacy (2.6 miles)
    • Rite Aid (7.1 miles)
    • Discount Drug Mart (7.3 miles)
    • Target Pharmacy (7.8 miles)
    • Rite Aid (7.8 miles)
    • Walgreens (7.9 miles)

    Parks

    • Lorain County Metro Parks (4 miles)
    • Lagrange Community Park (6.5 miles)
    • Cascade Park (7.1 miles)
    • Amherst Beaver Creek Reservation (7.3 miles)
    • Black River Reservation (9.5 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Emh Regional Medical Center (6.7 miles)
    • Emh Regional Medical Center (7.8 miles)
    • Mercy Health (9.3 miles)
    • Mercy Regional Medical Center (9.3 miles)
    • Physicians Answering Service (9.3 miles)

    Cafes

    • Panera Bread (8.1 miles)
    • Starbucks (8.8 miles)
    • Bread N Brew (9.3 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

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    Related Resources

    • when to move from assisted living to memory careWhen to Transition from Assisted Living to Memory Care: Key Indicators, Steps, and Finding the Right Community

      Transitioning from assisted living to memory care is driven by an individual's cognitive decline and specific needs, requiring careful evaluation of indicators like increased confusion and wandering. The process involves consulting medical professionals, researching suitable communities, considering financial and legal aspects, and ensuring effective communication for personalized care plans.

    • assisted living vs memory careUnderstanding the Distinctions: Assisted Living and Memory Care Explained

      The article differentiates between assisted living and memory care, explaining that assisted living supports seniors with daily activities while promoting independence, whereas memory care provides specialized services for individuals with dementia, focusing on secure environments and cognitive support. It also addresses staff training, safety considerations, costs, family involvement, and transition strategies for families navigating these care options.

    • how to talk to someone with dementiaHow to Communicate with a Loved One Living with Dementia: 10 Supportive Strategies

      The article outlines effective communication strategies for interacting with loved ones with dementia, highlighting the need for empathy, patience, and understanding while emphasizing supportive approaches like using simple language, minimizing distractions, and focusing on feelings over facts to maintain dignity and foster connection. It also suggests seeking professional guidance when needed as communication challenges evolve.


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