Clarendale Ann Arbor: A Comprehensive Review

Clarendale Ann Arbor

Clarendale Ann Arbor, located at 2830 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, is a premier senior living community operated by Life Care Services LLC. This review provides a detailed analysis of the facility’s services, amenities, resident experiences, and market position to help families make informed decisions about senior living options in the Ann Arbor area.

Services Offered

Independent Living

  • Private apartments and residences for seniors aged 62+
  • Maintenance-free lifestyle focused on active, independent seniors
  • Access to all community amenities and social programming
  • Priority access to higher levels of care if needed

Assisted Living

  • Professional assistance with activities of daily living
  • 24-hour staffing and supervision
  • Medication management services
  • Personalized care plans tailored to individual needs
  • Support for various chronic conditions including diabetes and cardiac issues

Memory Care

  • Specialized environment for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
  • Secure, supportive neighborhood setting
  • Structured activities designed for cognitive stimulation
  • Trained staff in memory care techniques
  • Person-centered approach to memory support

Clarendale Ann Arbor does not appear to offer skilled nursing care. Residents requiring this level of care may need to transition to a different facility or arrange for visiting nursing services.

Amenities and Features

Community Spaces

  • Swimming pool and hydrotherapy pool
  • Fitness center with modern exercise equipment
  • Multiple dining venues including formal dining, café/bistro, and private dining areas
  • Beauty salon and barbershop
  • Library and computer center
  • Movie/theater room
  • Arts and crafts center
  • Game room
  • Outdoor courtyards and gardens
  • Piano/organ for musical enjoyment

Residence Features

  • Studio apartments (pricing varies)
  • One-bedroom apartments (starting at $4,500/month)
  • Two-bedroom apartments (starting at $7,400/month)
  • Full kitchens or kitchenettes (depending on residence type)
  • Individual climate control
  • Cable TV and Wi-Fi access
  • Emergency call systems
  • Wheelchair accessible showers in select units
  • Washer and dryer in units or access to laundry facilities

Services

  • Chef-prepared meals with restaurant-style dining
  • Special dietary accommodations including vegetarian, gluten-free, and low-sodium options
  • Weekly housekeeping and laundry services
  • Transportation for medical appointments and outings
  • Beautician services
  • Concierge services
  • Access to fitness programs and wellness initiatives

Daily Activities and Lifestyle

Clarendale Ann Arbor offers a robust activity program designed to engage residents physically, mentally, and socially:

  • Fitness classes including yoga and stretching exercises
  • Social gatherings and themed events
  • Musical performances and concerts
  • Arts and crafts workshops
  • Educational presentations and lectures
  • Book clubs and discussion groups
  • Outings to local cultural attractions
  • Religious and spiritual services
  • Swimming and water-based activities
  • Club meetings and special interest groups

According to one reviewer, the community offers “a lot of activities, and the people seem happy there.” Another mentioned that their family member was “already making friends, attending activities, and enjoying the experience” shortly after moving in.

Resident Testimonials

Clarendale Ann Arbor has received generally positive reviews from residents and their families, earning an 8.6 out of 10 rating from A Place for Mom based on 14 reviews and a 4.7 out of 5 rating on Caring.com based on 4 reviews.

“It is exceptional! Not a ‘value’ place but exceptional care for the price! I like that my mom is content, more self-sufficient in many ways, mentally more than anything. She feels respected and knows her preferences for the way things are done are listened to even if they can’t always be accommodated 100%… Food is exceptional, with a kitchen/chef/ and food staff in each living area…independent, assisted and memory care. She has a menu with a choice of really decent food for each meal.” – Anonymous family member

“I toured Clarendale Ann Arbor. What I like best about it is that it doesn’t feel institutional. It feels very home-like. I looked at one sample and the floor plans of the others, and they’re very similar to the other places. The staff was very pleasant and informative.” – Reviewer ET0325

“My mother-in-law moved into Balfour Ann Arbor [now Clarendale]. It is a 5-star rating because of the care that she received when we were considering her moving there and the support she got for moving into the facility. The food is fabulous. They take good care of her.” – Roxane

Some reviewers have noted staffing challenges: “The staff that is there is great, but there’s not enough staff. It’s hard to find people to work, that’s their biggest problem… not enough help for the residents. Overall, I would for sure recommend this facility to family and friends.” – Anonymous

Pricing Information

Clarendale Ann Arbor offers various pricing options depending on the level of care and accommodation type:

Room TypeStarting Price
StudioVaries
One Bedroom$4,500/month
Two Bedroom$7,400/month

According to Family Assets, costs at this community start at $4,500 and range up to $7,130, with an average price of $5,815, which is equal to the average price in the Ann Arbor area. Additional care services may increase the monthly cost based on individual needs.

The community is rated as “$$$” (mid to upper range) for the Ann Arbor area, reflecting its upscale amenities and comprehensive services.

Comparison with Similar Facilities in Ann Arbor

When comparing Clarendale Ann Arbor to other senior living communities in the Ann Arbor area:

FacilityCare TypesStarting PriceReview ScoreNotable Features
Clarendale Ann ArborIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care$4,500/month8.6/10 (14 reviews)Swimming pool, restaurant-style dining, pet-friendly
University Senior LivingAssisted Living, Memory Care$4,500/month4.2/5 (11 reviews)Located nearby (2865 S Main St)
Brookdale Ann ArborAssisted Living, Memory Care$6,419/month4.0/5 (29 reviews)Higher price point
Sheridan LivingIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care$3,000/monthNo reviews availableLower price point
StoryPoint SalineIndependent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care$7,200/month (studio)9.7/10 (412 reviews)Located in nearby Saline, excellent reviews
Atria Park of Ann ArborAssisted Living, Memory Care$10,395/month (studio)9.3/10 (60 reviews)Premium pricing, upscale amenities

Clarendale Ann Arbor distinguishes itself with:

  • Competitive pricing compared to some similar communities in the area
  • Full continuum of care from independent living through memory care
  • Resort-style amenities including swimming pool
  • Pet-friendly policies (cats and dogs allowed)
  • Multiple dining venues with highly-rated food service

Healthcare and Medical Access

Clarendale Ann Arbor is conveniently located near several healthcare facilities:

  • University of Michigan Health System (2.8 miles away)
  • St. Joseph Mercy Hospital (5.1 miles away)
  • Total of 8 hospitals within 25 miles

This proximity to major medical centers provides residents with easy access to healthcare services and specialists.

Summary

Clarendale Ann Arbor offers a comprehensive senior living experience with options spanning independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The community’s strengths include its resort-style amenities, diverse activity programming, and personalized care approach.

The facility is particularly well-suited for seniors seeking an upscale living environment with access to care services as needs change. The beautiful grounds, multiple dining venues, and extensive amenities create an engaging atmosphere for residents, while the continuum of care services provides peace of mind for the future.

For families exploring senior living options in the Ann Arbor area, Clarendale Ann Arbor represents a mid-to-upper range option with a solid reputation for quality care and service. While there have been some mentions of staffing challenges, the overall resident and family satisfaction appears high, particularly regarding the food quality, homey atmosphere, and supportive staff.

Prospective residents and families should arrange a tour to experience the community firsthand and determine if it aligns with their specific needs and preferences.