Considering Independent Living in Kirkland? Here’s How to Know When It’s Time

Aug 1, 2023 | Independent Living

A Lifestyle That Lets You Breathe

Independent Living at MorningStar of Kirkland isn’t about giving up anything; it’s about gaining breathing room. It’s for folks who love their freedom but could use a break from the yardwork, the laundry list of home repairs, and the solo dinners.

Whether it’s a lakeside stroll, a wine tasting with neighbors, or simply reading by the fireplace in our cozy lounge, this chapter offers the comfort of home without the upkeep.

Is It Time for a Change? Here Are Some Telltale Signs

The House Feels Like Too Much

When the family home starts feeling more like a project than a haven, it might be time to downsize. Here, residents enjoy beautiful, right-sized apartments just minutes from Lake Washington.

Driving Feels Draining

Eastside traffic isn’t what it used to be. If your loved one is skipping trips or feeling anxious behind the wheel, our community shuttle makes errands and outings easy, from downtown Kirkland to Juanita Beach Park

Less Social Time, More Isolation

When friends have moved or passed on, or the calendar has more quiet days than full ones, it can take a toll. At MorningStar, daily life includes built-in opportunities for connection, from art workshops to cozy coffee chats.

Managing the House Gets in the Way of Living

Leaky faucets, weed pulling, and stairs that weren’t an issue ten years ago can start to pile up. When they do, it’s time to reclaim your energy for the things that matter. We handle the details so you can enjoy the view.

They’re Traveling Less Out of Concern

Gone are the days of spontaneous weekend getaways when there’s mail to stop and pipes to worry about. Our secure, locked-and-leave lifestyle means you—or your loved one—can head to the San Juans, wine country, or grandkid visits without a second thought.

Why MorningStar of Kirkland Feels Like Home

Situated in one of the most picturesque corners of Washington, our community blends warm hospitality with PNW practicality.

  • No stairs, no stress: Our homes are built with accessibility in mind, including wide hallways, handrails, and flat entryways.
  • Fresh meals daily: Our chefs cook with seasonal ingredients sourced locally. No dishes unless you want to.
  • Your kind of people: Whether you’re into watercolor or local history talks, there’s a place for you.
  • Lakeside energy: Mornings at the marina. Afternoon book groups. Evening music by the fireplace.
  • Support, when and if needed: We’re not in your space, but we’re nearby if needed.

Local Living, Simplified

Living at MorningStar of Kirkland means staying close to your roots. From local farmers markets to community events at Marina Park, residents can continue to enjoy what makes this region special.

Imagine strolling the Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail in the morning, volunteering at the local library in the afternoon, and relaxing in a rocking chair with friends after dinner. It’s a good kind of rhythm.

Let’s Talk About the “Independent” in Independent Living

This isn’t assisted living. It’s not a nursing home. It’s not a step “down.” In fact, many folks see it as a step up, a decision made from a place of clarity, intention, and a little self-love.

You or your loved one are still doing the things you love. We’re just here to handle the parts you’ve outgrown, like fixing the gutters or cooking for one.

Tips for Starting the Conversation

It’s not always easy to talk about change. Here’s how to ease into it with your loved one:

  1. Start with what they love.
    “You’ve always loved lakeside walks. What if you could have more time for that, and less time managing the house?”
  2. Tour together, with curiosity.
    Come for a look. No pressure. Just enjoy a cup of tea, meet a few neighbors, and see what’s possible.
  3. Emphasize choice, not urgency.
    You’re not rushing anyone. You’re exploring options—together.
  4. Make it feel like a gain, not a loss.
    Highlight the things they’ll get: freedom, connection, ease—not just what they’ll leave behind.

When the Timing Is Right, You’ll Know

Independent Living isn’t about age; it’s about energy. And if your loved one is feeling stretched thin by responsibilities that once brought joy, it might be time for a new pace, filled with friendships, freedom, and fresh air.

At MorningStar of Kirkland, we believe the best years are often the ones where life gets simpler and sweeter.

Let’s Walk This Path Together

MorningStar of Kirkland offers in-person tours, relaxed meet-and-greets, and opportunities to join a community event even before you move in. You’ll feel the warmth and ease the moment you walk through the door.

Rooted in the Pacific Northwest

We know this place. We live it, breathe it, and build community in it. Whether it’s the cherry blossoms on Market Street or the buzz of a local art walk, we honor and embrace it.

A Life You Don’t Have to Manage—Just Enjoy

Step into a space where comfort meets simplicity, where friendships grow easily, and where the views of Mount Rainier remind us what a good life looks like.

Reach out toMorningStar of Kirkland today to schedule a no-pressure tour. Come enjoy lunch, meet a few neighbors, and discover how Independent Living can feel like the easiest and most meaningful chapter yet.

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Testimonials

Alyssa Allen
Love the facility, rooms are very nice and updated. Close to a lot of things
Alyssa Allen
Love the facility, rooms are very nice and updated. Close to a lot of things
Alyssa Allen
Alyssa Allen
Yen Dang
I have a friend whose grandma is living here that I got to visit when ...
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Yen Dang
I have a friend whose grandma is living here that I got to visit when I was in town. The facility is clean, modern and very well run. We got to dine in at the cafe and food was actually impressive. Smiles throughout from every employee during our visit. I know it's not the cheapest but they absolutely are worth the price.
Yen Dang
Yen Dang
Bing Chow
Living in here is just like in a big family. Everyone in here is very ...
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Bing Chow
Living in here is just like in a big family. Everyone in here is very friendly. We play games together with fun and laughter. We also concern and help each others. There are lots of pleasant and healthy activities like Group Exercise, Tai Chi , Yoga, Line Dancing, Jazzercise, Tone & Tighten, Cards Creation, Floral Arranging, Painting, Ceramics, Bingo, Water Aerobics, etc. Also we may do workouts in the gym or go swimming in the pool freely. Besides we will have Music Appreciation every week in our restaurant sipping on our wine while enjoying the music. I like living in here as it is like traveling on a cruise. We eat three meals a day for free and no need to worry about washing dishes. Our chef listens to our needs. The meals are good although a little salty sometimes. It is almost like in a hotel as once every week our cleaning team would come to clean the room and make beds. On the whole all staffs are very friendly and helpful. Morning Star in Kirkland is truly a super choice for independent retired living
Bing Chow
Bing Chow
Virginia Anderson
We have been here 8 months and are still grateful that we found this place. A ...
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Virginia Anderson
We have been here 8 months and are still grateful that we found this place. A faith based community means that everyone is supported in honoring their faith in their higher power. We have Christians, Jews, Muslims. The staff are super friendly which means they are grateful to be working in a place where most residents feel like a large family group. The new leader, Karen, is super friendly and the staff seem very happy to have her as their leader. Multiple events: movie nights, outside musical entertainment on Tuesdays happy hour are so much fun. People don't have to drive, there is always transportation when needed. The price is expensive but includes everything! Breakfast, lunch, dinner, housecleaning, internet, and staff that are all super friendly. In house Physical Therapy, exercise equipment, heated indoor salt water pool, in house hair and nail salon. Location is another plus: so close to doctors, hospital, shopping, and 5 minutes from Juanita Beach a great place to take a daily walk. Come give it a try!
Virginia Anderson
Virginia Anderson
Paris Aguinaga
I very much enjoy coming to visit my grandma. The flowers are always so beautiful ...
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Paris Aguinaga
I very much enjoy coming to visit my grandma. The flowers are always so beautiful and everyone always seems to be happy and having a good time. The food is delicious and the bistro is the gem of the dining experience. Arthur is the friendliest person and takes his craft seriously. I order something different every time to see what fun garnish he comes up with. My grandma is always telling me funny stories about the bistro and I feel happy knowing she has a companion every time she comes to get her glass of Chardonnay.
Paris Aguinaga
Paris Aguinaga
Marin Bundy
The food at the restaurant is really good. Came to visit to see places for ...
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Marin Bundy
The food at the restaurant is really good. Came to visit to see places for my mom, definitely a top contender. The facility is very nice and clean.
Marin Bundy
Marin Bundy
Janelle Erickson
Morningstar of Kirkland is a wonderful, independent community for seniors. My parents lived here for ...
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Janelle Erickson
Morningstar of Kirkland is a wonderful, independent community for seniors. My parents lived here for the past year and needed to move because they need more care. They loved Kirkland so much they moved into another Morningstar community that has assisted living and memory care. Kirkland is very well managed and the staff is friendly, kind and knowledgeable. The building is fairly new, attractive and well maintained. The residents have also created a real community atmosphere. Highly recommend without any reservation.
Janelle Erickson
Janelle Erickson

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