Private pay
Most residents pay the monthly fee from Social Security, pensions, savings or the sale of a home. There's no buy-in.
For families
Family resources
Practical help for the sons, daughters and grandchildren who are part of every move here.
For families
For families
Moving a parent is never one person's job. Here's how we help everyone who's part of it.
- 01
Before the move
Marisol will visit your parent's house, help decide what fits and connect you with local movers and estate-sale companies.
- 02
The first week
Every new resident is paired with a neighbor who walks them to tea, introduces them around and saves them a seat at supper.
- 03
Staying close
Ask for our monthly family letter with the calendar, the menu and photos from outings and celebrations.
- 04
Visiting
Come any time. Book a guest room in the Hartwell House, join us for tea or bring the grandchildren to the Saturday tea party.
- 05
When health changes
With your parent's permission, Janelle will call you after a fall or hospital stay and help sort out therapy or home care.
- 06
Celebrations
Birthdays, anniversaries and even a few weddings. Reserve the private dining room and the kitchen will bake the cake.
Insurance & payment
Paying for senior living
Our business office will sit down with you and go through costs honestly. Here's how most residents pay.
Long-term care insurance
Usually doesn't cover independent living rent, but many policies help with home care later. Bring your policy and we'll read it together.
Veterans benefits
Some veterans and surviving spouses qualify for VA pension benefits that can help with care-related costs. We'll connect you with the county veterans service office.
Selling the house
We can be flexible on move-in dates while a house sells, and we keep a list of trusted local realtors.
Activities & dining
This week on the lane
A sample week. The full calendar is printed on pink paper and slipped under every door on the last Friday of the month.
Mon
- Chair yoga in the sunroom
- Garden club in the greenhouse
Tue
- Lemon bars at afternoon tea
- Book club in the library
Wed
- Chapel and hymns with Pastor Sam
- Painting in the carriage house
Thu
- Car to the farmers market
- Bridge and canasta in the parlor
Fri
- Friday music night in the parlor
Sat
- Outing to the dogwood trails
- Grandchildren's tea party
Sun
- Hymn sing and Sunday dinner
Good to know
Questions, answered
What kind of community is Dogwood Lane?
Senior living: independent cottages and apartments with meals, housekeeping, a wellness nurse and a full calendar. We are not a licensed assisted living or nursing facility. If you need hands-on help, licensed home care agencies can visit you here.
Who can live here?
At least one person in each home must be 62 or older. Singles, couples, sisters and old friends sharing a two-bedroom are all welcome.
Is there a buy-in or entrance fee?
No. You pay a monthly fee under a twelve-month agreement, then month to month. A one-time community fee covers move-in.
What does the monthly fee include?
Your home, two meals a day plus breakfast and tea, utilities, Wi-Fi, weekly housekeeping, maintenance, transportation and every class and outing on the calendar except a few small trip fees.
Does Medicare or Medicaid pay for this?
No. Medicare and Medicaid don't pay rent or meals in senior living. Medicare does still cover medical care you receive here, like therapy at our on-site clinic, the same as anywhere else.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes. Cats and small dogs are welcome, with a pet deposit. Ask us about anything more unusual; we have a parrot.
Can I bring my own furniture?
Please do. Every home is unfurnished so it can be yours. We've fit pianos, grandfather clocks and one full-size loom.
Is tea really every day?
Every day at three in the front parlor, including holidays. It's optional, but it is very popular.
What happens if my health changes?
Many residents add a few hours of home care and stay in their own cottage. If you need more care than can be provided at home, we'll help you look at assisted living, memory care or nursing options in the area.
Is there a nurse on site?
Yes, a wellness nurse is on site seven days a week during the day. She doesn't provide hands-on care, but she can check your blood pressure, answer medication questions and help you decide whether to call the doctor.
Is the house accessible?
Yes. We added an elevator, ramps and wide doors during the restoration. The brick paths are smooth and lit at night.
Can family stay overnight?
Yes. Two guest rooms on the second floor of the Hartwell House can be booked by the night.
Can I keep my car?
Of course. Covered parking is included. Many residents drive, and many use our car for doctor visits in Tyler.
How far is the hospital?
About ten minutes. Larger hospitals and specialists are in Tyler, about an hour away, and we help with rides.
Is there a waiting list?
Usually for garden cottages, especially in spring. Apartments are more often available. A refundable deposit holds your place.
Can I garden?
Yes. Every cottage has window boxes, and raised beds in the garden are assigned each February.
How do we start?
Call or text Celia, book online or simply stop by for tea at three. We'll show you around and send you home with a floor plan and a written price list.
Come sit on the porch a while.
Call or text Celia, or book a tour online. In spring, ask for the dogwood walk.