When you imagine retirement, you probably think about freedom, peace of mind, and doing more of what you love. Whether that’s gardening, joining a book group, or spending time with family, retirement should be about living well — not worrying about what happens if your health changes down the road.
That’s where the continuum of care comes in.
At Briarwood, we believe aging should never mean giving up your independence or the comfort of your community. Instead, it should mean having access to the right support when you need it. That’s the heart of the continuum of care — and it’s one of the most important things to look for in a retirement community.
What Is a Continuum of Care?
The continuum of care is a model that offers different levels of support in one place. From independent living to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, this approach means you don’t have to start over somewhere new every time your needs change.
You may not need or use every level of care. But it brings peace of mind to know the services are there if and when you need them.
Why Continuity Matters
Moving is stressful at any age. In retirement, it can also be disruptive to your routine, your support system, and your sense of home. At Briarwood, residents often move into independent living first, building friendships, taking part in activities, and making a home here. And it’s comforting to know that when needs change, they don’t have to leave the community they love.
Whether it’s a short-term change or a longer-term need, the right support is already here.
That continuity makes all the difference. It means:
- Less disruption: No need to move to a different location or facility.
- More comfort: Stay close to the people, activities, and places that feel familiar.
- Stronger relationships: With staff who know you and a community that cares.
- Better planning: Know what to expect and how to prepare financially and emotionally.
Briarwood’s Continuum of Care
Briarwood is proud to be a non-profit organization. Our mission drives every decision we make, from how we care for residents to how we invest in our campus, staff, and services. To best serve our residents, we offer five levels of care. Not everyone will need them all, but they’re all available here, and they work together to support your independence, health, and happiness.
Independent Living
Independent living is where many of our residents start. With spacious cottages and apartments, you can enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle surrounded by trees, acres of beautiful landscape, and neighbors who quickly become friends.
You can cook in your own kitchen or head to our dining room for restaurant-style meals. You can also join a yoga class in our wellness center, catch a lecture in the auditorium, or take a day trip on the coach with your new neighbors.
The Home Companion Program
Sometimes you need just a little extra help — like a ride to the doctor or assistance with laundry. Our Home Companion Program offers flexible, on-demand support to all Briarwood residents.
This service helps you stay in your Briarwood cottage or apartment while getting the support you need for day-to-day tasks. It’s affordable, flexible, and available when you need it.
Assisted Living
If you need help with personal care, medication reminders, or daily routines, our traditional assisted living apartments offer privacy and support. Staff are available 24/7, but you’ll still have your own space, complete with your furniture, your memories, and your independence.
Our goal is to help you live life on your own terms, with the support that keeps you safe and comfortable.
Memory Care: The Evergreens
For those facing memory challenges, we offer a dedicated memory care assisted living home. This is a secure, comforting space where residents receive specialized care from trained staff who understand memory loss.
We focus on safety, dignity, and meaningful daily engagement — giving families peace of mind and residents the quality of life they deserve.
Skilled Nursing: Knollwood Nursing Center
Located within the Briarwood community, Knollwood offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. This includes short-term rehab stays after surgery or illness, as well as long-term nursing care.
A CMS 5-star rated nursing home, Knollwood is staffed by compassionate professionals who focus on both medical needs and personal well-being. Even here, residents often remain connected to the larger Briarwood community.
The Gift of Planning Ahead
One of the most common reasons people choose Briarwood is to plan ahead. Many of our residents are active, healthy, and enjoying their retirement; however, they know things might change in the future. By choosing a community with a full continuum of care, they’re making it easier on themselves and their families.
They’re choosing peace of mind and the ability to stay in control of where and how they age.
A Community That Grows With You
The truth is, you don’t know what support you’ll need in five, ten, or twenty years. But with a continuum of care, you don’t have to. Choose a community that can meet you where you are — and stay with you as your needs change.
At Briarwood, we’re not just offering varied levels of care. We’re offering a commitment to support your well-being at every stage of life.
That’s what the continuum of care means to us. And it’s what makes Briarwood a place where you can truly feel at home — for life.
Learn More About Briarwood’s Continuum of Care
Want to learn more or see Briarwood in person? Reach out to us with any questions or schedule a tour and explore how our continuum of care can provide you with the security, comfort, and peace of mind you deserve in retirement.
