Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living in Charlotte, NC

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  • Interior

    A cozy bedroom with a comfortable bed, decorative pillows, and natural light from the window.
  • Outdoors

    A scenic view of a lake surrounded by trees and a winding white fence.
  • Decor

    A spacious living room with a grand piano at the center, surrounded by sofas and elegant decor.
  • Living Room

    A cozy and well-decorated living room with a comfortable sofa and elegant coffee table.
  • Dining

    An overhead view of an empty dining area with neatly arranged tables and chairs on a carpeted floor.
  • Kitchen

    A cozy living room with a sofa, decorative pillows, and a dining table in front of the kitchen area.
  • Seating Area

    A cozy lounge with a billiards table and comfortable seating.

Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living in Charlotte, NC

9131 Benfield Road, Charlotte, NC 28269

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

4.3 from 89 reviews
5 stars
54
4 stars
20
3 stars
7
2 stars
1
1 stars
7

Independent Living

Overall Review of Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living

Pros

  • pro The food is rated 10 out of 10, a strong motivation for prospective residents to move in.
  • pro The chapel hosts weekly Friday services, fostering a positive community vibe.
  • pro Residents feel they are offered good living at Shads Landing.
  • pro The food is very good and the staff feel like family to the residents.
  • pro The location is loved and highly recommended, with pleasant staff.
  • pro The facility is clean, bright, and inviting.
  • pro The staff are caring, personal, and friendly, creating a welcoming environment.
  • pro Shannon and Josh set a good example for the staff as a team.
  • pro The facility is absolutely gorgeous and well-maintained as an independent living option.

Cons

  • pro There was nobody at the front desk to check in visitors, which seemed unsafe.
  • pro There are rats on the premises, and management isn't taking steps to remove them, treating it as normal.
  • pro The upper management isn't very personal and shows a lack of concern for residents, while costs are rising for the services provided.
  • pro The facility's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic was criticized for a complete lack of planning, resulting in residents being locked in their rooms and experiencing harm.
  • pro Some staff were described as rude and unwilling to assist with basic tasks, including bringing a flower arrangement to a resident.
  • pro Meals can take 1.5 to 2 hours to be served, with food quality described as inconsistent, and rates increase annually with little improvement.
  • pro Marketing and pricing practices were described as shady and misleading by reviewers.

Review

Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living is best suited for active seniors who want a vibrant independent-living experience with high-quality dining, frequent social programming, and a staff culture that treats residents as individuals. It works best for families seeking a maintenance-free environment where meals, housekeeping, and daily routines are handled, and where there is room for personal connections with caregivers who feel more like a chosen circle of support than distant staff. This community rewards self-direction, with comfortable apartments and a campus that encourages engagement through activities, chapel services, and visible care from on-site teams. It is not a fit for those who require constant medical oversight, memory-care supports, or a guaranteed budget with predictable, all-inclusive pricing.

Those considering alternatives should note that the strongest caveat here is the mix of independent-living focus with for-profit pricing and variable operational consistency. Several reviewers flag that management and front-desk responsiveness can vary, and a few express concern about pricing creep and what feels like promotional hype around amenities. For families whose loved ones need steady daily assistance beyond light support, or who require transparent, predictable service terms, a move toward a true assisted-living or memory-care setting may be more appropriate. The facility's advertising and sales approach has also drawn skepticism in some accounts, suggesting that expectations should be grounded in what is actually delivered on a month-to-month basis.

On the upside, the core advantages are compelling where independence and social vitality are the priority. The food earns near-celebratory notices - menus described as robust, with meals that many residents look forward to and repeatedly praise as among the strongest reasons to settle in. Staff members who connect with residents on a personal level - often described as friendly, caring, and genuinely "like family" - help create a sense of belonging that can offset the chores and loneliness that sometimes accompany aging. The property itself tends to shine in cleanliness, brightness, and curb appeal, with a notable campus atmosphere that includes a pond-side feel and accessible common spaces for casual interaction. For many families, this combination of palatable dining, approachable caregivers, and a warm community makes Shads Landing a practical preference.

Yet the same reviews that applaud warmth and meals also flag meaningful drawbacks that cannot be ignored in a decision. Front-desk coverage is inconsistent, which raises practical safety questions about check-in procedures and visitor management. Pest concerns, including rat sightings, appear in at least one account, and some readers treat these as red flags about ongoing maintenance discipline. Dining logistics emerge as a friction point - long meal durations and occasional inconsistency between the kitchen's advertised menus and what arrives at the table can sap the day's pace and energy. More thorny are comments about pricing: increases year over year with marketing promises that don't always align with the perceived value, alongside suggestions that corporate decisions can lead to abrupt changes in services or atmosphere. These issues collectively test the trust families place in the facility's long-term promises.

Weighing the positives against the negatives, Shads Landing remains a strong candidate for families prioritizing companionship, hospitality-style living, and a high-quality culinary program, provided expectations are managed around the noted gaps. The practical offset comes from a visible, caring staff that treats residents as individuals, the ability to enjoy meaningful activities, and a living environment that feels polished and welcoming. The decisive counterweight is financial and administrative transparency: monthly costs, rate increases, and the reliability of service levels should be confirmed in writing before committing. Prospective residents should validate that the level of care offered aligns with actual needs, especially if mobility or supervision may decline over time.

In closing, this community delivers on warmth, flavor, and day-to-day livability, making it a strong fit for self-directed seniors who value social stability and robust dining. Families should be prepared to scrutinize contract terms, ask pointed questions about safety, pest control, and front-desk coverage, and verify that the level of support will remain consistent as expectations evolve. If independence is the priority and the warm, person-centered culture is non-negotiable, Shads Landing is worth a serious look. If more intensive daily assistance, transparent pricing governance, or uncompromising safety oversight are nonnegotiables, alternative options - particularly true assisted living environments - may be more prudent investments of time and resources.

Features

Housing

  • 22 resident community capacity 22 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • 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.

Amenities

  • 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.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • 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.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • 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.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Charlotte Douglas International (14 miles away) Charlotte Douglas International (14 miles away)

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.
  • 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.
  • Hospice waiver Hospice waiverHospice waivers are important for seniors because they allow individuals to receive specialized end-of-life care and support at home or in a hospice facility. This waiver ensures that seniors can access the necessary resources and services to maintain comfort and dignity during their final days.
  • 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.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.

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.
  • 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

  • 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.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • 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

Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living in Charlotte, NC is a senior living community that offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle for older adults. Our residents enjoy a range of amenities to enhance their daily lives, including access to cable or satellite TV, a spacious dining room for communal meals, fully furnished apartments, beautiful gardens to explore, housekeeping services to maintain cleanliness and orderliness, well-equipped kitchenettes for personal meal preparation, move-in coordination assistance to ensure a smooth transition, outdoor spaces for relaxation and recreation, telephone access for communication with loved ones, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet connectivity.

At Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living, we also prioritize the well-being of our residents by providing various care services. Our dedicated staff offers assistance with dressing and other activities of daily living as needed. Additionally, our community has a hospice waiver in place to ensure that residents receive end-of-life care with compassion and dignity. We offer help with meal preparation and service to meet each resident's dietary needs and preferences. Our trained professionals are also available to manage medication administration and provide ongoing support in maintaining mental wellness.

In terms of dining options at our community, we accommodate special dietary restrictions to cater to individual needs. Residents can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals prepared by our culinary team.

We understand the importance of engaging activities in promoting an active lifestyle among our residents. At Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living, we have resident-run activities where individuals can participate actively in organizing events that interest them. We also offer scheduled daily activities designed to cater to various interests and preferences.

Conveniently located near our community, there are three cafes where residents can socialize with friends or family members over a cup of coffee or a light snack. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby parks for leisurely walks or picnics. For any healthcare needs or prescriptions, there are four pharmacies available within close proximity. Seven physicians are easily accessible for medical consultations or check-ups. Additionally, there are six restaurants nearby offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy different culinary preferences. For transportation needs, there are two options nearby, ensuring ease of travel. Lastly, for those interested in the arts, there are two theaters nearby where residents can enjoy live performances.

At Shads Landing Gracious Retirement Living, we provide a fulfilling and engaging lifestyle that combines comfort, convenience, and care services to meet the diverse needs of our residents.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • Chick-Fil-A (0.7 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.5 miles)
  • Hickory Tavern (3.4 miles)
  • Armored Cow Brewing (3.9 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (4 miles)
  • Burger King (4.6 miles)
  • Zaxby's (5.2 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (1.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (5.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5.5 miles)

Physicians

  • Novant Health Lakeside Family (1.5 miles)
  • University Family Physicians (1.9 miles)
  • Charlotte Sports Medicine Institute PA (3.1 miles)
  • University Eye Associates (3.2 miles)
  • Orthocarolina (4.2 miles)
  • Carolina Asthma & Allergy (4.6 miles)
  • Greater Carolinas Womens Center PA (4.6 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (2.6 miles)
  • Panera Bread (3.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (4.3 miles)
  • Starbucks (8 miles)
  • Smelly Cat Cof (8.1 miles)
  • Hex Coffee (8.4 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Concord Mills 24 (3.5 miles)
  • AMC Northlake 14 (3.7 miles)

Parks

  • Richard Barry Park (3.8 miles)
  • Dorton Park (7.1 miles)
  • Glen Oak Green Park (8.1 miles)
  • Blythe Landing Park (8.3 miles)
  • Overlook Neighborhood (9.2 miles)
  • Frank Liske Park (9.6 miles)
  • Fourth Ward Park (9.7 miles)

Transportation

  • Concord Regional Airport (JQF) (USA) (4.5 miles)
  • LYNX UNC Charlotte - Main Station (4.9 miles)
  • LYNX University City Boulevard Station (5.5 miles)
  • Sugar Creek Station (7.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center (5.1 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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