Meridian at Kessler Park

Meridian at Kessler Park, now closed, was a luxury retirement community in Dallas, Texas, built for adults over 55 who wanted a lifestyle with extra comfort and less worry, and it had these full-size one- and two-bedroom apartments for both independent and assisted living, which is something that stood out in the area, and you'd find kitchenettes, large living spaces, high ceilings, and options with washer and dryer hookups, so people could really settle in and feel at home, and pets were welcomed with some restrictions on size and breed. You'd see resort-style touches like a swimming pool, fitness center, business center, courtyard with a fountain, and lots of outdoor patios and gardens, plus indoor and outdoor common areas where it was easy to gather, read, or enjoy the weather, and it even had a beauty salon, along with on-site haircut and barber services, and a covered parking area for those who drove. Residents could get help with daily needs like bathing or chores, and there were services for people with memory problems or those who needed nursing care, and the staff provided 24-hour assistance just in case, plus people who stayed for short-term respite or needed help preventing wandering. Each apartment had things like central air, wall-to-wall carpeting, window treatments, a full kitchen, refrigerator, and walk-in showers or bathtubs, and there were single, semi-private, and two-bedroom units available, all non-smoking. Meals were served in a restaurant-style dining room, and there were chances for group meals and offsite outings, social activities every day, educational programs, book collections to borrow from, and devotional or religious services both on site and at nearby locations, and families were involved too, with outreach and education services. Meridian included all utilities in the rent, like local phone, cable, and basic housekeeping, and offered daily maintenance and scheduled transportation to places in the community, so people didn't have to drive if they didn't want to, and there was a 24-hour concierge, as well as services like respiratory therapy, hearing aid help, and a doctor on call. People could let go of chores and focus on hobbies and friendships, and since the place had both independent living and more supportive options, residents could get more help if they needed it without having to move elsewhere. Meridian was licensed by the state, had wheelchair accessible showers, was designed for aging in place, and had parking on site. While it's now closed and no longer accepting new residents, it was a place focused on making retirement easier and more comfortable for adults who valued having choices and privacy, while still getting assistance and care when needed.