Their job was not an easy one.  Many others had tried before and had not been successful.  Through hard work and sheer determination, they laid the groundwork for one of the finest retirement communities in the state and across the nation.

Since Meadowlark Hills' inception, the organizers were committed to the concept of a continuum of care. Working with this concept, Meadowlark Hills was among the first to design both independent living housing and skilled-nursing accommodations under one roof.

After many years of planning and preparation, Meadowlark Hills opened its doors in 1980 – its residents, many of the same people who had worked so hard to create and build Meadowlark Hills. It is this concept of direct resident involvement that has shaped Meadowlark Hills throughout its history and makes it such a truly special place to live and work. Another reason Meadowlark Hills is distinguished throughout its history is its commitment to responding to the changing needs of the community. During the 1980s a Health Care Center was built and expanded to provide around-the-clock skilled nursing care. Then, in 1985, a Special Care Unit was added to care for those with Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia. Also during the 1980s, an Adult Day Care Program was developed to allow area families to leave a loved one for the day or part of the day with the assurance that nutritious meals, socialization, care, and medications would be provided. In the early 1990's, a Home Health Agency was added to the continuum of care to supplement the growing needs of the residents.

In 2000, we expanded to double the size of independent living, added assisted living and assisted living with memory support, and created the new healthcare household model and eliminated the institutional nursing home.

The creation of these 8 households and a current expansion of cottages are just a part of our vision to expand our possibilities.

Today we are not only serving our own residents, but we are helping others around the world to change the culture of long-term care.