Ben PhilipThe McKenzie Retirement Community, also known as McKenzie Place, is a thoughtfully designed residential community in Colorado Springs that provides seniors with an active, secure, and engaging lifestyle. More than just a place to live, it is a carefully built environment that blends independence with support, comfort with safety, and leisure with enrichment. Designed for older adults seeking a vibrant life in retirement, McKenzie Place offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care options, ensuring that residents can receive the level of support they need while enjoying a warm, welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
The McKenzie Retirement Community
Ownership and Philosophy
McKenzie Place in Colorado Springs is managed by Leisure Care, an organization with decades of experience in redefining senior living. The core philosophy emphasizes a beyond-the-body approach, empowering independence, joy, and holistic well-being for seniors.
Care Continuum and Living Options
The community offers a comprehensive continuum of care, including:
- Independent living
- Assisted living
- Memory care
This makes McKenzie Place a flexible choice for residents whose care needs may evolve over time.
Amenities and Lifestyle
McKenzie Place provides a wide array of amenities designed to enrich every facet of daily life.
Indoor facilities include a pool, theater, salon and barbershop, fitness center, activity and games rooms, arts and crafts studio, fireplace lounge, library, bistro, private dining areas, and gathering spaces.
Outdoor and technology features include an enclosed courtyard, transportation services, guest parking, free Wi-Fi in common areas, and daily check-in systems.
Programming and wellness options consist of a vibrant activity calendar, PrimeFit wellness programs with multi-dimensional balance training, BrainHQ cognitive exercises, travel events, volunteer opportunities, and access to occupational and physical therapies.
Supportive staffing includes a general manager, certified caregivers, memory care managers, fitness instructors, resident services, culinary and wellness directors, visiting health professionals, and round-the-clock awake staff.
Apartment Types and Safety Features
Residential options are designed for comfort and independence.
They include varied floor plans, from studios to three-bedroom apartments and cottages. Many units offer kitchens or kitchenettes, patios or balconies, spacious walk-in closets, climate controls, and in-apartment Wi-Fi.
Safety features are built in, such as 24-hour emergency monitoring systems, safety-focused bathroom designs, smoke detectors, and built-in alert systems. Many apartments also include washer and dryer units or hookups.
Work Environment from Employee Perspectives
Staff reviews reveal both heartfelt dedication and some operational challenges.
Pros include genuine affection for residents, high-quality dining and attentive service, a collaborative atmosphere, good paid time off policies, and a sense of home with personal rapport between staff and residents.
Cons include occasional favoritism or poor communication from management, high turnover rates, concerns about work-life balance, and inadequate maternity leave provisions.
This feedback provides a balanced view of the work environment: residents are cared for with genuine attention, while the organization has areas for improvement in employee support.
Summary at a Glance
Category | Details |
| ——————- | ————————————————————————————- |
Philosophy | Hospitality-driven, life-enhancing care |
Care Options | Independent, Assisted, Memory Care |
Amenities | Pool, theater, salon, fitness center, library, bistro, wellness programs |
Social and Wellness | Emotional, physical, and cognitive engagement programs including BrainHQ and PrimeFit |
Staff Support | Diverse healthcare and hospitality teams with 24/7 response |
Residence Types | Studios to spacious cottages with safety features and modern comforts |
Employee Feedback | Positive care culture and services, with some concerns about management structure |
Ideal For | Seniors seeking active, secure, and dynamic retirement living |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is The McKenzie Retirement Community?
A. The McKenzie Retirement Community is a senior living community that provides a full continuum of care. It combines the independence of apartment-style living with the security of on-site services, supportive staff, and wellness programs. Residents can choose from independent living for an active lifestyle, assisted living for those who need help with daily tasks, and memory care for individuals experiencing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. This flexible approach means residents can age in place without needing to move if their needs change.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. McKenzie Place offers a variety of living arrangements, with several hundred residences spread across apartments, cottages, and specialized care units. The community is designed to feel like a neighborhood, with thoughtfully arranged buildings, landscaped outdoor spaces, and walkable areas that encourage social interaction and easy access to amenities.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Residents can select from different floor plans, including cozy studios, spacious one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, and even larger three-bedroom cottages. Many residences come with kitchens or kitchenettes, private patios or balconies, walk-in closets, and in-unit laundry facilities. Safety is also a priority, with emergency response systems, accessible bathrooms, and built-in alert systems in all homes.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. The amenities at McKenzie Place are designed to support a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement. Residents can enjoy an indoor pool, fitness center, theater, salon and barbershop, library, arts and crafts studio, bistro, and private dining rooms for family gatherings. Outdoor courtyards provide peaceful areas to relax, while transportation services ensure residents can easily attend appointments or outings. The wellness programs, including PrimeFit for physical health and BrainHQ for cognitive engagement, keep both body and mind active. Social events, volunteer programs, and travel opportunities further enrich the community experience.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes. McKenzie Place emphasizes lifelong learning and intellectual engagement. Residents have access to lectures, book clubs, discussion groups, and technology workshops. Local experts and guest speakers are often invited to share knowledge on history, science, literature, and current events. Creative classes, such as painting, crafts, and music, also provide outlets for residents who enjoy hands-on learning. These opportunities not only stimulate the mind but also help residents connect with others who share similar interests.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. The community is strategically located near some of the top healthcare providers in Colorado Springs. Hospitals, specialty clinics, and rehabilitation centers are just a short drive away, ensuring residents have quick access to medical care when needed. On-site, the community also partners with visiting healthcare professionals, physical and occupational therapists, and wellness directors who monitor residents’ health. This combination of nearby hospitals and in-house support provides peace of mind for both residents and their families.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. McKenzie Place features its own dining services, offering chef-prepared meals in restaurant-style settings as well as casual bistro fare. The menu often changes to include seasonal dishes, resident favorites, and healthy options tailored to dietary needs. Beyond the campus, the Colorado Springs area is rich with shopping and dining opportunities. Residents are close to grocery stores, boutiques, shopping centers, and restaurants ranging from casual cafes to fine dining. Organized transportation and outings make these local amenities easily accessible.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. Living in Colorado Springs means residents at McKenzie Place are surrounded by natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The city is known for its scenic parks, hiking trails, and cultural attractions. Popular destinations like Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and local museums are within reach for day trips. The community also organizes group excursions to theaters, concerts, art galleries, and sporting events. For residents who prefer staying close to home, recreational activities such as games, fitness classes, movie nights, and art projects are available daily on campus.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. McKenzie Place encourages resident involvement through a variety of committees. These include dining committees that provide feedback on meals, activity committees that help plan events, and volunteer groups that organize charity or community service projects. Such committees allow residents to have a voice in shaping their daily experiences, strengthening the sense of community and personal investment in the place they call home.
Conclusion
The McKenzie Retirement Community stands out as more than just a senior living facility; it is a neighborhood built on connection, comfort, and care. With its wide range of living options, thoughtfully designed homes, and extensive amenities, it offers seniors the freedom to enjoy their retirement years while ensuring support is available whenever needed.