Masonicare at Ashlar Village sits at 74 Cheshire Road in Wallingford, Connecticut, within ZIP code 06492, right in a quiet area with easy access for seniors and their families, and you'll see it's a large place, serving close to 5,000 people across Connecticut as part of the bigger Masonicare network, which has been around for decades, having first been accredited way back in 1989, so there's a lot of experience built into how folks are treated there. The community offers different kinds of homes and rentals, from condos and apartments to townhomes and single-family houses, and there's a focus on making things easy for those with disabilities, with wheelchair ramps, accessible showers, entrance-level apartments, and elevators, because getting where you need to go shouldn't be a hassle. The rental units tend to have things people want, like washers and dryers, air conditioning, sometimes water views, and some even let family bring visiting pets, within reason, as long as they're small animals like cats.
Ashlar Village takes care of a range of needs, since there are services for folks who want independent living in a safe and social place, as well as more supportive options like assisted living, specialized dementia care, and skilled nursing, so people can move between those as their care needs change, which makes it a Continuing Care Retirement Community or CCRC, and that means you don't have to worry as much about where you'll live if you need extra help later on. There's a secure memory care unit, short-term rehab for people coming out of the hospital, and even respite care for folks just needing a break or a stay for a couple of weeks, plus adult day programs and in-home companion services for those who want to try things out or need help without moving right away.
You'll find a lot of everyday support, such as housekeeping, laundry (staff can do it or you can do it yourself), transportation to doctors or shopping, regular activities, and nutritious meals in the dining rooms, with staff known for being friendly and taking time with residents. Rooms include furnished apartments and private rooms, and there's guest parking for when friends or family come by, plus both indoor and outdoor gathering spots - some with barbecue areas, patios, and even waterfront views, since getting outside does people good. Safety matters, too, so there are medical alert devices, WanderGuard technology for folks who might get confused, and a team covering everything from medication help and diabetic care to programs for folks with higher needs, even hospice and behavioral health, since it all falls under their mission to look after mind, body, and spirit.
They keep a steady set of age restrictions and pet-friendly policies, mostly for cats, and make efforts to make the buildings and website accessible to everyone, regardless of disabilities. There are specific programs to protect residents' rights against housing and job discrimination, especially for LGBTQ persons, which you won't see everywhere. Amenities and care services cover the basics and the extras, but don't expect every luxury under the sun - what folks mention most is a feeling of kindness from the staff, help with daily activities like dressing and bathing, regular social programs, and clear information about what to expect if needs change.
The community houses 134 units, so it's not too small or too overwhelming, allowing for a bit of a neighborhood feeling, and the staff are usually described as helpful, which makes adjusting a little less worrisome. Masonicare at Ashlar Village brings different types of care all in one place, with a long tradition of senior services, accessible housing, and a commitment to health and daily wellbeing.
