The Willows Bellingham

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  • Interior

    A cozy living room with a red sofa adorned with patterned cushions and framed wall art.
  • Outdoors

    Close-up of vibrant blue hydrangeas in a garden setting.
  • Decor

    A cozy bedroom with a warm color scheme and modern decor.
  • Building

    A modern building surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
  • Architecture

    An exterior view of an apartment building with balconies and windows.
  • Trees

    Entrance sign for The Willows retirement community surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Floor Plan

    A floor plan of a one-bedroom apartment featuring a bedroom, living area, kitchen, and bathroom.

The Willows Bellingham

3115 Squalicum Pkwy, Bellingham, WA 98225

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

5 from 46 reviews
5 stars
46
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
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Independent Living

The Willows Bellingham Costs & Pricing

The Willows Bellingham offers competitive pricing for its residence options compared to the broader market in Whatcom County and the state of Washington. For a studio apartment, residents can expect to pay $3,050 per month, which is significantly lower than the county average of $3,604 and the state average of $4,126. The one-bedroom units are also priced attractively at $3,615, again undercutting both the county's average of $3,801 and the state's higher average of $4,632. However, two-bedroom apartments at The Willows are priced at $6,100 per month, which stands in stark contrast to the county's much lower average of $3,748 and even exceeds the state's average of $4,301. Overall, while The Willows Bellingham presents an appealing cost structure for studios and one-bedrooms relative to local and state averages, potential residents should carefully consider their options when it comes to larger living spaces.

Floor plansThe Willows BellinghamWhatcom CountyWashington
Studio$3,050$3,604$4,128
1 Bedroom$3,615$3,801$4,634
2 Bedrooms$6,100$3,748$4,301

Overall Review of The Willows Bellingham

Pros

  • pro The Willows is described as a remarkable place where the staff are compassionate and genuinely engage with residents.
  • pro The care team treats residents with respect, kindness, patience, and dignity, with around-the-clock coverage and attentive leadership.
  • pro The environment is well-maintained and peaceful, featuring a beautiful patio for reading, socializing, or relaxing.
  • pro The LifeMinded community fosters purpose, dignity, joy, lifelong learning, independence, and vibrant engagement for both residents and staff.
  • pro Families feel like part of the Willows' extended family, assured that their loved ones can live independently with appropriate support.
  • pro Residents consistently praise the staff for friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness, noting excellent communication and care.
  • pro The Willows offers a warm, home-like atmosphere with attractive facilities and a wide range of activities that promote a lively, engaging lifestyle.

Cons

  • pro The cost may be a little high.

Review

The Willows Bellingham is best suited for active, socially engaged seniors who want a vibrant, resort-like home with dependable support options. For families, it offers genuine peace of mind: a loved one can stay as independent as possible while knowing help is readily available if needed. Across numerous testimonials, residents describe meaningful connections, comfortable apartments, and staff who treat people with warmth, respect, and dignity. The setting emphasizes ease and quality of life, with well-maintained grounds, tranquil outdoor spaces, and contemporary amenities that keep daily living centered on purpose and engagement rather than routine confinement.

Those weighing alternatives should note a practical caveat: the community caters to a higher price tier and to residents who want a broad slate of activities, generous services, and a luxury ambiance. For households prioritizing cost, or for individuals who require intensive skilled nursing or definitive memory-care programming, other communities - more affordable options or those specialized for memory care - may be better fits. Likewise, families seeking a quieter, smaller-scale environment or a pace closer to a traditional, low-key retirement setting may find The Willows' breadth of programming and social calendar more than they bargained for. The Willows excels where the target resident values immersion and a sense of resort-style living.

The strongest positives offset the main con through a compelling, consistent care culture. The staff are repeatedly described as compassionate and engaged, taking time to know residents personally and to accommodate unique requests. A 24/7 coverage model provides real reassurance for families, with night managers ensuring off-hours support and ongoing safety monitoring. The LifeMinded philosophy underpins daily life, translating into meaningful programs, opportunities for learning, and a steady rhythm of social, cultural, and physical activities. The combination of dedicated caregivers, a robust activity calendar, and a responsive front desk creates a reliable safety net that enables residents to maintain independence with confidence.

Another powerful advantage is the quality of the environment and the sense of community it cultivates. Residents and families consistently praise the welcoming spaces, beautiful design, and the range of amenities - from restaurants and lounges to wellness offerings and mobility-support features. The Willows actively demonstrates its commitment to ongoing improvement, with updates such as new entrances, expanded outdoor space, modern exercise equipment, and enhanced library resources. The community's energy feels inclusive, with residents, staff, and family members often describing a shared pride in the place and a feeling of belonging that rivals what one might expect in a close-knit town - but with the polish and conveniences of a premium setting.

Nevertheless, careful scrutiny reveals the practical limit of this premium experience: ongoing affordability. While many families feel the value justifies the investment, the cost remains a clear consideration. Prospective residents should evaluate long-term finances in light of potential health changes and the possible need for higher levels of care later on. The Willows concentrates on independence with a safety net, but it is not a substitute for facilities designed around full-time skilled nursing or highly specialized memory care. Those with evolving medical needs should be candid about escalation options, nurse availability, and the likelihood of requiring higher-tier services in coming years.

For decision-making, approach The Willows as a strong recommend for those who want a balanced blend of independence, connection, and dependable support in a refined, lively setting. Begin with an intensive visit: tour dining rooms, observe interactions between staff and residents, assess how quickly requests are addressed, and review transportation options and care escalation processes. Probe the overall affordability - tuition, add-ons, and any anticipated increases - and seek firsthand experiences from current residents about daily routines, meal quality, and activity variety. If the priority is a welcoming, flourishing community where staff truly value residents and where life feels purposeful each day, this community should be prioritized. If not, identify alternatives that align more closely with budget, pace, and the desired level of medical versus social emphasis.

Features

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.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

Amenities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • 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.
  • Bath tubs Bath tubsBath tubs are important for seniors because they provide a safe and relaxing way to bathe, helping to prevent slips and falls while promoting independence and overall well-being.
  • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
  • 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.
  • Devotional services on-site Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
  • Full kitchen Full kitchenHaving a full kitchen in a senior living facility is important for seniors because it allows them to maintain their independence and prepare their own meals. This promotes healthy eating habits, saves money on dining out, and provides a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents.
  • Ground floor units Ground floor unitsGround floor units are important for seniors because they provide easy accessibility, reduced risk of falls and injuries, and convenience for those with mobility issues. Seniors can avoid climbing stairs or using elevators, making daily tasks and activities more manageable and enjoyable.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Outdoor common areas Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.
  • Wheelchair accessible showers Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.

Transportation

  • Bellingham International (3 miles away) Bellingham International (3 miles away)

Care Services

  • 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."
  • 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.

Dining

  • Guest meals Guest mealsGuest meals are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide an opportunity for socialization and companionship. Sharing a meal with friends, family, or new acquaintances can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, promote a sense of community, and enhance overall well-being. Additionally, guest meals allow seniors to enjoy delicious food in a comfortable setting without the hassle of cooking or cleaning up, making dining a pleasurable and stress-free experience.
  • International cuisine International cuisineInternational cuisine is important for seniors because it offers a variety of flavors, ingredients, and cultural experiences that can help keep their meals interesting and enjoyable. Trying new dishes can also stimulate the senses and provide different nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being. Additionally, exploring international cuisine can bring back fond memories of travels or childhood experiences, making mealtime more nostalgic and fulfilling for seniors.
  • 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.
  • Professional chef Professional chefProfessional chefs are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide nutritious and delicious meals that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. A professional chef can ensure that seniors are receiving balanced, flavorful meals that support their overall health and well-being.
  • Restaurant style dining Restaurant style diningRestaurant style dining is important for seniors as it offers them a social and enjoyable dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and provides personalized menu options to cater to their dietary needs and preferences. This type of dining setting can enhance their overall quality of life and create a sense of community within the senior living facility.
  • Room service Room serviceRoom service is important for seniors in a senior living community because it provides convenience and allows them to have their meals delivered directly to their room. This can be especially beneficial for seniors who may have mobility issues or difficulty accessing the dining area. Room service ensures that seniors are able to receive nutritious meals without having to navigate through the facility, allowing them to maintain their independence and overall well-being.
  • Vegan VeganVegan diets can provide numerous health benefits for seniors, including lower risk of chronic diseases, improved digestion, and increased energy levels. Additionally, plant-based diets are often rich in essential nutrients that can support overall well-being and longevity in older adults.

Activities

  • Art classes Art classesArt classes are important for seniors because they provide a creative outlet, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, promote socialization, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Catholic services Catholic servicesCatholic services are important for seniors because they provide spiritual support, a sense of community, and opportunities for social interaction that can enhance overall well-being and quality of life in their later years.
  • Day trips and outings Day trips and outingsDay trips and outings are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and a break from daily routines. These experiences can enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • 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.
  • Devotional activities on-site Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.
  • Educational speakers / life long learning Educational speakers / life long learningEducational speakers and lifelong learning opportunities are crucial for seniors as they provide mental stimulation, promote social engagement, and contribute to overall well-being. Continuous learning helps seniors stay mentally sharp, build new skills, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. It also allows them to stay connected to the world around them and fosters a sense of community within senior living facilities.
  • Happy hour Happy hourHappy hour is important for seniors as it provides a social activity that promotes camaraderie and reduces feelings of loneliness or isolation. It also offers an opportunity for older adults to relax, unwind, and enjoy some drinks or snacks in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Jewish services Jewish servicesJewish services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual support, and connection to their heritage and traditions. These services help enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults in senior living settings.
  • Karaoke KaraokeKaraoke provides seniors with a fun and social activity that can boost mood, confidence, and cognitive function. It encourages social interaction, physical movement, and creative expression, making it an important form of entertainment for senior living communities.
  • Live musical performances Live musical performancesLive musical performances can provide seniors with a sense of joy, nostalgia, and connection. Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, improve mood and cognitive function, and foster social interaction among seniors. It can also serve as a form of therapy and stress relief for older adults, making it an important activity to include in senior living communities.
  • Live well programs Live well programs"Live well programs are essential for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation, ultimately promoting overall health and well-being in later years."
  • Protestant services Protestant servicesProtestant services are important for seniors because they provide spiritual nourishment, community support, and a sense of belonging. These services can help seniors connect with others who share their faith, find comfort and guidance in times of need, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their later years.
  • Wine tasting Wine tastingWine tasting can be a fun and social activity for seniors, allowing them to engage their senses, learn about different varieties of wine, and potentially meet new friends. It also offers health benefits such as improved cognitive function and reduced risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation.

Description

Located in Bellingham, WA, The Willows Bellingham offers a comfortable and vibrant assisted living community for seniors. With a wide range of amenities and care services, residents can enjoy a fulfilling and worry-free lifestyle.

The community provides numerous activities on-site to keep residents engaged and entertained. From educational speakers and day trips to live musical performances and wine tasting events, there is always something exciting happening at The Willows Bellingham. Devotional services are also available both on-site and off-site for those who wish to nurture their spiritual well-being.

Each living unit is thoughtfully designed with the comfort of the residents in mind. Features such as bath tubs, full kitchens, ground floor units, indoor common areas, and outdoor common areas ensure that residents have all they need to feel at home. Wheelchair accessible showers make it easy for individuals with mobility challenges to maintain their independence.

Care services at The Willows Bellingham include specialized diabetic care for those with specific medical needs. Residents can rest assured knowing that their health concerns are being looked after by trained professionals.

When it comes to dining, The Willows Bellingham offers an exceptional culinary experience. With meals provided by a professional chef, residents can savor delicious international cuisine in a restaurant style setting. Vegan options are also available for those with dietary preferences or restrictions. In addition, room service is provided for added convenience.

The community is conveniently located near various amenities and facilities. Six cafes, four parks, 14 pharmacies, 30 physicians, 37 restaurants, two transportation options, one theater, and six hospitals are all within close proximity to The Willows Bellingham.

Overall, The Willows Bellingham provides a welcoming environment where seniors can thrive and enjoy all that assisted living has to offer. With its range of amenities, care services, dining options and nearby attractions, this community truly prioritizes the well-being and happiness of its residents.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Bellingham, Washington, offers a convenient and well-equipped environment for senior living. With a variety of physicians and hospitals in close proximity, residents have easy access to healthcare services. Additionally, there are several pharmacies nearby for medication needs. The area also boasts numerous dining options, including restaurants like Applebee's and Panda Express, as well as cafes such as Starbucks and Mount Bakery. For leisure activities, there are parks like Broadway Park and Elizabeth Park within a short distance, providing opportunities for outdoor relaxation. Furthermore, transportation is readily available with WTA stations nearby for easy access to different parts of the city. Overall, this neighborhood presents a comfortable and practical setting for seniors looking to settle down in Bellingham.

Physicians

  • Squalicum Family Medicine (0.1 miles)
  • Bellingham Asthma Allergy & Immunology (0.1 miles)
  • Maureen Kelty, M.d., PC (0.1 miles)
  • Wakefield, William Dr - Peacehealth Medical Group (0.1 miles)
  • Bellingham Medical Office Plaza Condo Association (0.1 miles)
  • Dr Lisa A Kaepernick, MD (0.2 miles)
  • Bellingham OB/GYN (0.2 miles)

Hospitals

  • St Joseph Cancer Center (0.1 miles)
  • Peacehealth St Joseph Child Birth Center (0.2 miles)
  • PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center (0.2 miles)
  • Bellingham Surgery Center (0.2 miles)
  • Mount Baker Kidney Center (0.4 miles)
  • Mount Baker Imaging (0.6 miles)

Restaurants

  • Latitude Kitchen & Bar (0.3 miles)
  • Applebee's (0.4 miles)
  • Jack In The Box (0.4 miles)
  • Panda Express (0.4 miles)
  • Taco Bell (0.5 miles)
  • Mi Mexico (1 miles)
  • Denny's (1 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rx Mart Pharmacy (0.4 miles)
  • Can Drug USA (0.7 miles)
  • Haggen Pharmacy (0.8 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1 miles)
  • Haggen Pharmacy (1.2 miles)
  • Haggen Food Pharmacy (1.2 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.3 miles)

Parks

  • Broadway Park (0.7 miles)
  • Elizabeth Park (1.4 miles)
  • Cornwall Park (1.5 miles)
  • Waypoint Park (1.7 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Barkley Village IMAX & RPX (0.9 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (1.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.3 miles)
  • Cafe Velo (1.6 miles)
  • Mount Bakery (1.6 miles)
  • Caffe Adagio (1.6 miles)
  • Old Town Cafe (1.7 miles)

Transportation

  • WTA Cordata Station (1.6 miles)
  • WTA Bellingham Station (1.7 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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