The Carlstone Independent 55 Living sits in Norman, Oklahoma, at 501 E Robinson St and has a quiet, neighborly atmosphere for people ages 55 and up, so you'll see folks walking their small dogs, since pets like cats and dogs are allowed, and there's a plan for a dog park and a community garden coming, which might be nice if you like being outside. The building's only two stories and was built in 2020, so things look new and well-kept, and you'll find elevators, wide halls, and units designed for easy living, with one- and two-bedroom apartments that give you a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and a walk-in shower, and some of them are made for people using wheelchairs or needing extra accessibility.
People say the staff is caring, with more than 80 years' experience looking after older folks, and there's always something going on, with a full-time activities director. There's an activity lounge for family get-togethers and big celebrations, rooms for games and movies, art classes, trivia, and regular weekly activities-plus you can join Soulful Pilates and Wellness classes led by Summer Borth if you like to keep moving. The community's got walking paths, a vegetable garden, outdoor dining patios, and places to sit and talk or just relax in the fresh air.
If you need help with health, the wellness center brings in home health professionals, and you'll find resources like hearing aid and cellphone guides just for seniors-including hearing aids from Jabra and MDHearingAid, as well as Jitterbug Phones and special Consumer Cellular plans. They also have internet options like Xfinity and ATT Senior Internet, cable plans, and easy TV service for older adults, and you can use computers in the community area if you like. Safety's a priority at The Carlstone, so there are guides and tools for things like ID theft protection, walk-in tubs, home security tips, medication dispensers, and medical alert systems such as Bay Alarm Medical, Medical Guardian, and ADT Medical Alert.
You can eat at the community's full-service restaurant or use the dining room, and there's valet trash service, light housekeeping every week, and laundry services if you want them. There's also a beauty/barber shop, fitness center, art studio, library, shuttle service for field trips and rides into town, and a storm shelter for safety during bad weather. Parking's on-site, and the 24-hour security system helps everybody feel safer.
With a 9.3 out of 10 average rating and awards like Senior Community of the Year in 2021 and Best of 2022 from A Place for Mom, The Carlstone gets good reviews for letting people live independently while still feeling supported. The community's independent living focus means folks manage on their own mostly, but there are memory care resources and guides for extra support if you need them. Amenities, activities, and helpful staff all focus on helping you stay engaged, active, and comfortable in a place designed for those 55 and older, whether you want to live in an apartment, condo, or townhome and keep your social circles strong.
