A recent article in Time Magazine lists Madison, WI as the best city for senior citizens. We at Capitol Lakes second that. Capitol Lakes was once called Methodist Retirement Center and then Meriter Retirement Center. In 2008, it was purchased by Pacific Retirement Services, Inc., a not for profit organization with offices in Medford, OR.
My wife Sally and I moved into Capitol Lakes seven years ago and have never regretted the move. Capitol Lakes is ideally situated in downtown Madison, with easy access to the new downtown library, The Overture Center, many restaurants of varied ethnicity, two drug stores, and scores of entertainment options, from the converted Majestic Theater to The Frequency. And don’t forget the Orpheum Theater, which schedules many upscale options.
The Health Center houses a three-lane lap pool, a warm water exercise pool and a hot water spa. Many water exercise classes are held in the pools, open to residents and, by contract to seniors throughout the Madison vicinity. It has an affiliation with the University of Wisconsin Alumni Association, providing a venue for University lectures, MOOC access, and a Grand Hall for recitals, music groups, singing and dance groups, and a weekly “happy hour” with wine and munchies.
A chaplain organizes many religious functions for all denominations. An active resident association has established 12 committees and another 12 fellowship interest groups to keep things lively. Small busses provide transportation to many functions as well as personal visits for residents needing doctor or dental care.
An active Arts Committee oversees the three art galleries, with changing exhibits every few months.
Since Capitol Lakes is a CCRC (Continuous Care Retirement Community), it is divided into three major units, Independent Living, Assisted Living and Nursing Care. Residents can move from unit to unit as needed, and it’s all under one roof. There is indoor parking for the residents maintaining their own cars.
All in all, Capitol Lakes is a terrific place for retirement and appreciates Time Magazine’s listing as the best place for senior citizens to live in the United States.