Ben PhilipCarmel Oaks Retirement Community in Lakewood, Colorado, is an independent living community designed for older adults who want a comfortable, maintenance-free lifestyle. Surrounded by scenic views of the Rocky Mountains and conveniently located near Denver, it offers a balance of peaceful living and easy access to city amenities. Residents enjoy spacious apartment homes, a variety of services, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Carmel Oaks Retirement Community in Lakewood, Colorado
Location and Overview
Carmel Oaks Retirement Community is located in Lakewood, Colorado, just minutes from downtown Denver and close to parks, trails, shopping areas, and healthcare services. The community is managed by Transforming Age, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults through housing, technology, partnerships, and community engagement.
Carmel Oaks is designed for active, independent seniors who want to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle while staying connected to friends, neighbors, and activities they love. It offers beautiful mountain views, well-designed apartment homes, and an environment that encourages both relaxation and engagement.
Philosophy and Values
At its core, Carmel Oaks is built on a people-first philosophy. The staff emphasize warmth, respect, compassion, teamwork, integrity, and fun. The community aims to create a safe and welcoming environment where residents can thrive emotionally, socially, and physically.
The focus is on giving residents the opportunity to live a maintenance-free life while pursuing their interests, forming friendships, and enjoying a sense of purpose. Whether residents are looking for an active social life or a quiet retreat, Carmel Oaks accommodates different lifestyles and preferences.
Accommodations and Housing
Carmel Oaks offers approximately 81 apartment homes in various layouts. Options typically include one- and two-bedroom apartments, with some reports mentioning larger three-bedroom units. Sizes range from about 600 to 1,650 square feet, giving residents flexibility in choosing a space that suits their needs.
Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with a full-size kitchen, private balcony or patio, in-unit washer and dryer, and generous storage space. The community includes all utilities—heat, electricity, water, basic cable, trash, and recycling—in the monthly rent, making budgeting simpler for residents.
Pricing
Monthly rates at Carmel Oaks start around \$2,545, depending on the apartment size and location within the building. Broader estimates, which may include more comprehensive services or care options, range from \$2,500 to over \$8,000 per month.
The average cost for independent living at Carmel Oaks is approximately \$4,062 per month, which is lower than the regional average of about \$5,426. This makes it an attractive option for seniors looking for value without compromising on quality or amenities.
Amenities and Services
Carmel Oaks offers a variety of amenities designed to support both active living and personal comfort.
- Dining and meals
Residents enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast on weekdays, with optional evening dining. All meals are prepared by professional chefs who focus on both flavor and nutrition.
- Housekeeping and maintenance
Light housekeeping is provided, along with monthly deep cleaning. Grounds care, building maintenance, and repairs are handled by staff, ensuring a truly maintenance-free lifestyle.
- Recreation and wellness
The community features a fitness center, wellness programs, and organized fitness classes. Other amenities include an art studio, library with computer stations, movie theatre, woodworking shop, game room, and a full-service salon and barbershop.
- Transportation and accessibility
Scheduled transportation is available for shopping, appointments, and outings. The building is fully accessible with elevators, wheelchair-friendly spaces, guest parking, and secure entry.
- Additional perks
Residents have access to a coffee bistro, fireside lounge, private dining room, landscaped courtyards and gardens, guest suites for visiting family, and Wi-Fi in common areas.
Lifestyle and Community
Life at Carmel Oaks is designed to be as active and engaging—or as relaxed and quiet—as residents want it to be. The activities calendar includes exercise classes, art and craft workshops, movie nights, group outings, religious services, educational lectures, and special holiday events.
Residents are encouraged to participate in community events and committees, but they can also enjoy privacy and solitude when they prefer.
Carmel Oaks is a pet-friendly community, welcoming small pets so residents can continue enjoying the companionship of their furry friends.
Reputation and Recognition
Carmel Oaks has received recognition as one of the best senior living communities for independent living. Residents and their families often praise the friendly and professional staff, the cleanliness and beauty of the grounds, and the variety of activities available.
Reviews highlight the sense of safety and comfort, the welcoming environment, and the value offered compared to other retirement options in the region. Many residents describe Carmel Oaks as a place where they feel truly at home.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
| —————- | ————————————————————————- |
Location | Lakewood, Colorado – near Denver, parks, retail, healthcare |
Housing | Approximately 81 units, 1–2 bedrooms, full kitchens, balconies/patios |
Pricing | From about \$2,545 per month; average \$4,062; up to \$8,000+ for premium |
Dining and Meals | Continental breakfast, optional dinners, chef-prepared menus |
Amenities | Fitness center, salon, library, theatre, workshop, coffee bistro, gardens |
Services | Housekeeping, utilities, maintenance, scheduled transportation
Lifestyle | Active yet flexible, pet-friendly, vibrant community |
Reputation | Award-winning, highly rated by residents and families |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Carmel Oaks Retirement Community?
A. Carmel Oaks Retirement Community is a nonprofit-managed independent living community offering older adults a safe, active, and maintenance-free lifestyle. It provides private apartment homes, inclusive services, and a range of amenities to encourage both social interaction and personal independence.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. The community features approximately 81 apartment homes in different sizes and layouts, giving residents a range of options to suit their preferences and needs.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Carmel Oaks offers one- and two-bedroom apartments, with some larger layouts available. Each home includes a full-size kitchen, private balcony or patio, in-unit washer and dryer, and generous storage space.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. Amenities include a fitness center, art studio, library with computer stations, movie theatre, woodworking shop, game room, coffee bistro, landscaped courtyards, private dining areas, guest suites, and a full-service salon and barbershop. Residents also enjoy complimentary continental breakfast and optional evening dining.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes. Residents can participate in educational lectures, workshops, and discussion groups. The library and computer center also provide resources for personal learning.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. Carmel Oaks is close to several healthcare providers, including local clinics, dental offices, and major hospitals in Lakewood and Denver. Transportation is available for medical appointments.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. The community is near shopping centers, grocery stores, and restaurants. Scheduled transportation is available for shopping trips, and the on-site dining options offer convenient, chef-prepared meals.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. Nearby recreational opportunities include parks, walking trails, golf courses, cultural attractions, and community events in Denver. On-site, residents can enjoy fitness classes, art workshops, games, movie nights, and social gatherings.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Residents can join committees that focus on planning social events, managing gardening projects, organizing outings, and enhancing community life. These committees give residents a voice in shaping their living experience.
Conclusion
Carmel Oaks Retirement Community offers a comfortable, engaging, and well-connected lifestyle for older adults. With its variety of housing options, comprehensive amenities, and active resident involvement, it provides a welcoming environment where people can enjoy both independence and community. Its location near Denver adds convenience, while the peaceful setting ensures a relaxing place to call home.