Friends Home in Kennett has stood in the heart of Kennett Square for over 100 years, offering a homelike place for older adults who want to hold onto their independence and dignity, and it sits just steps away from local shops, parks, and churches so residents can take part in the town's activities if they're able, and with community traditions like "Thursday Supper on the Porch" and a welcoming front porch lined with rocking chairs, it really feels like an old family house where everybody knows each other, and you see the same friendly hometown staff day after day, some of whom have worked there for years. Originally opened by Quakers in 1898, the place is known for its focus on simplicity, peace, and hospitality, and you can see those Quaker values-called SPICES-woven into daily life: Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship.
The whole setup includes independent living, supportive independent living, personal care, and a skilled nursing wing called Linden Hall, which was built onto the main house back in 1980 and now offers care for 20 residents. There are 49 assisted living units, with 37 residents living there, and 6 independent units that usually have a wait list, but they're planning to add more in the future. Respite stays, which can last up to two and a half months, are available in both assisted living and skilled nursing, so families can get a helping hand or a break if they need it, and those looking to try the community can use the "Give it a Try" program to move in for a couple months without the usual entrance fee. Hospice care and memory care services, including a Montessori Inspired Lifestyle for people with dementia, are also there for residents who need more support, and that's pretty rare since only about 30 communities in the whole country have such a Montessori program.
Meals are handled by an on-site chef with food options for special needs like diabetes or other dietary needs, and residents can help decide what gets cooked so there's a little more freedom and personal taste in daily meals. Everything's wheelchair accessible, and help's available for non-ambulatory residents or folks who need extra time with bathing, dressing, or transferring. The staff provides medication management and there's 24-hour supervision with a call system, plus on-site nurses for at least half the day.
Activities play a big part in daily life-movie nights, day trips, performing arts, educational programs, and plenty of opportunities to get involved with the Kennett Square community, including local parades and events. Volunteers, local school groups, and community groups come visit, bringing some energy and keeping residents connected to the outside world. Facilities include furnished rooms, Wi-Fi, parking, move-in coordination, and scheduled transportation, so getting out and about isn't too much of a hassle. The non-profit status means Friends Home in Kennett seeks out grants to help with things like building upkeep, keeping service costs down for residents, and the focus all along has been to build a sense of belonging, making it a place where friends really can become like family. The old buildings, dating back to the 1850s with later additions, give it a warm, lived-in feel, and the staff and residents keep up a tradition of hospitality that's lasted more than a century.
