Video displaying scenes from Rosewood, a HumanGood Life Plan Community in Bakersfield, California

June and David

Hitting Their Stride at Rosewood

From beer flights and wine clubs to swimming laps, committee leadership, and campus-wide friendships, June and David aren’t just living at Rosewood, they’re helping shape what life there looks like for themselves and others.

“Thriving” is the word they return to again and again when describing their days. Since moving to Rosewood, they say they’re healthier, busier, and more socially connected than they ever imagined—and it’s all by design.

A Social Life That Took Off—Fast

It didn’t take long for David and June to find their stride at Rosewood.

June quickly became a regular at the monthly wine club, where residents sample affordable wines and linger over easy conversation. “It’s fun, it’s relaxed, and you’re always meeting someone new,” she says.

David, meanwhile, turned an idea into one of Rosewood’s most popular resident-led traditions: Beer Flight Night.

What started with just eight residents now draws more than twenty each month. Participants sample beers from around the world—Asian, Indian, Chinese, American, stouts, darks, and craft selections— at Rosewood. And sometimes David will organize outings to Bakersfield’s local breweries.

“The activities team was incredibly supportive,” David says. “I had an idea, and they encouraged me to make it happen.”

That spirit—residents shaping their own experiences—is what they say truly sets Rosewood apart.

“There’s a real openness here,” June adds. “If you want to start something, you can with the support of the community.”

Life at Rosewood also keeps David and June moving—physically, socially, and creatively. June participates yoga classes and enjoys walking in the beautiful butterfly garden. She fills her week with creative outlets. She’s active in Craft & Chat, card-making, monthly art classes, and weekend games. She also helped at the first bazaar to raise money for Rosemart, the thrift shop and grocery store that supports projects undertaken by Rosewood Resident Council.

Beyond activities, June has been involved in resident leadership, serving on the Housekeeping, Dining, and Friendship Committees. Currently she is acting as Corresponding Secretary for the Resident Council as well as supporting initiatives that strengthen connections across campus.

David swims in the Rosewood pool and plays golf four times a week at nearby Sundale Country Club, just half a mile away. He’s built friendships both on and off campus and values how easy it is to stay active.

But the biggest change, June says, is David’s social life.

“He’s become so social,” she laughs.

“There are so many interesting people here,” David agrees. “I love hearing their stories and really getting to know them.”

Independence Without Worry

For June, Rosewood’s transportation services were a key factor in the move, as vision challenges made driving unsafe.

“It lets me stay independent without worrying about not going where I need to go,” she says.

Downsizing felt daunting at first, but with help from Rosewood’s partnership with a local senior move management company, the process became manageable—and freeing.

“We left a lot behind,” David says, “and we don’t miss any of it. Our lifestyle completely changed, and for the better.”

A Community That Encourages Initiative

Rosewood offers constant opportunities to connect. However, what stands out most to June and David is how resident-driven the community feels.

“This isn’t passive living,” June says. “You’re encouraged to participate, to lead, and to try new things.”

David appreciates the freedom Rosewood provides. “I don’t worry about the pool, the yard, or maintaining a big house anymore,” he says. “This gives me the opportunity to try new things and just enjoy my life.”

Doing Their Research

Before moving, they explored several senior living options and attended multiple Rosewood seminars. Over time, one thing became clear: Rosewood offered the consistency, stability, and the lifestyle they wanted—without sacrificing independence.

Advice From Two Go-Getters

Their advice to others considering Rosewood is simple—and emphatic.

“Don’t wait,” June says. “Move while you can still make the decision for yourself, build friendships, and feel empowered to live your own life on your terms.”

David agrees. “Choose a place where you can thrive—socially, physically, and financially. Rosewood gives us the freedom to live the way we want, with the support we need from Rosewood’s incredible team members.”

Nancy

Freedom to Live Her Way

For Nancy, moving to Rosewood wasn’t about slowing down—it was about choosing a life filled with freedom, connection, and peace of mind. Since making Rosewood her home, Nancy has found a rhythm that feels both purposeful and deeply content.

“I love living here,” she says simply.

Choosing Rosewood—With Intention

Nancy knew Rosewood was the right place almost immediately. After years of thoughtful planning and advice from people she trusted, she scheduled a visit—and never felt the need to keep looking.

“I made an appointment, and that was it,” she recalls.

The decision still carried emotion. Leaving the four-bedroom home she had lived in for more than 30 years was difficult, and downsizing was the hardest part of the transition.

“I wanted to be here,” Nancy admits, “but I didn’t want to move here, if that makes sense.”

A Home She Loves—and a Life Made Easier

Today, Nancy lives in a spacious apartment she adores, complete with a large kitchen, in-unit laundry, and sweeping views of the southern mountains.

“It feels like home,” she says.

Since moving to Rosewood, the stresses of homeownership—repairs, upkeep, taxes, and unexpected expenses—have disappeared. In their place there is a sense of calm and ease living at Rosewood.

“I don’t have that stress anymore,” Nancy explains. “I sleep late because I can.”

Living Life on Her Own Terms

One of Nancy’s favorite things about Rosewood is the freedom to be as busy—or as relaxed—as she chooses.

She’s an avid bridge player, and a devoted Dodgers sports fan. Each week, she helps lead the colorful Welcome Table, where new residents gather to meet neighbors, ask questions, and begin forming friendships.

“It’s really a friendship table,” Nancy says. “There’s always something to learn and people to speak with.”

Her schedule is filled with opportunities she genuinely enjoys on her own, or with friends —bingo games, wine tastings, trips to the central coast, Los Angeles, and exploring Bakersfield’s many wonderful restaurants.

Transportation is one of her favorite Rosewood amenities.

“They take you anywhere—appointments, the airport, day trips,” she says. “They make it happen.”

A Community That Feels Like Home

What surprised Nancy most after moving in? “The friendliness,” she says without hesitation.

She made it her personal mission to learn names, connect faces, and greet people warmly. Her approach is simple: “Assume you belong.”

At Rosewood, that sense of belonging comes easily.

Nancy has rekindled old friendships and formed new ones including reconnecting with a longtime friend she had lost touch with. Today, they enjoy bridge games and brunch together.

She also finds comfort in the level of support around her—from maintenance and housekeeping teams to healthcare staff and security.

“I feel really safe here,” she says. “Security is always roaming the campus.”

Content, Confident, and Looking Ahead

When Nancy thinks about the future, one word comes to mind: content.

She feels confident, comfortable, and grateful she made the move when she did.

Her advice to others considering a life plan community is heartfelt and clear:

“Plan your life road before you must. Do it before it becomes more difficult, and you lose the ability to guide your own choices.”

And for Nancy, choosing Rosewood made all the difference.

“I love living here.”

Bob and Dot

A Winning Swing Toward Stress-Free Living

On most mornings, Dot and Bob can be found heading out with their golf clubs—walking the fairways at nearby Sundale Golf Course, soaking in the sunshine, and sharing a game they’ve loved for more than 40 years. Golf is more than a hobby for them; it’s a way of life—active, social, and deeply connected. That same outlook on living guided their decision to move to Rosewood.

Located just half a mile from campus, Sundale has become a natural extension of their Rosewood lifestyle. Dot and Bob play two to three times a week, often walking the full six-mile course together. “We’d love to see even more golfers move here,” Bob says with a smile.

That spirit of staying active carries through every part of their life at Rosewood—along with a sense of ease they didn’t fully expect.

Dining has been a standout. “We eat healthier than ever,” Dot says. “Balanced meals, hot vegetables at every meal—it’s wonderful.” Whether they’re dining in the main dining room, stopping by the bistro, or enjoying a meal poolside, dining has become both nourishing and a chance to connect with new friends.

Staying active comes naturally at Rosewood. Dot enjoys swimming, walking the garden paths—six laps equal a mile—and taking part in line dancing, cornhole, and game nights. Bob has claimed the hot tub as his favorite place to unwind.

“I quickly discovered the depth of opportunities available,” Dot adds. “There’s something to do every day of the week—resident-taught Pilates, book clubs, line dancing, shopping trips, and holiday outings. You have to decide what not to sign up for.”

Beyond campus, Dot and Bob remain connected to the greater Bakersfield community through church and enjoy opportunities to engage with people of all ages. “It’s important for us to stay connected to every generation,” Dot says.

For Dot and Bob, relocating to Rosewood wasn’t about slowing down—it was about choosing a lifestyle that offers freedom, connection, and peace of mind. Married for more than 50 years, they’ve built a life centered on family, travel, and shared experiences. Those values continue to shape their days and made Rosewood feel like a natural next chapter—one that aligns perfectly with how they want to live now and, in the years, ahead.

Why did you choose Rosewood?

What immediately set Rosewood apart wasn’t just the amenities—it was the people. “This place is hands-on,” Dot says. “You can see how much the community truly cares. Everyone is in a similar stage of life, and it’s easy to fit in.”

Bob noticed the culture right away. “How did they find this many nice, respectful people with such a good attitude?” he says with a laugh. From fellow residents to team members and gardeners, the warmth and positivity stood out.

They both agree, beginning at the front lobby when we need assistance with scheduling our transportation to appointments or need a repair in our apartment or have trouble with our computer, a team member shows up in a timely manner with a smile and patience to help us out. The team is amazing here!

What surprised you the most?

Friendships formed almost immediately. “I was sitting next to another couple shortly after moving in,” Dot explains. “The wife asked how we were doing and told us they heard we were new. I was feeling homesick for our former home. They understood exactly what we were feeling—and now she’s one of my best friends. I now make it my mission to keep a look out for the next Dot moving into Rosewood. I want to make her feel comfortable!”

What influenced you to move to Rosewood?

After two decades of living an active life in a small mountain town, Dot and Bob knew when it was time for a change. The outdoors and sense of community had been wonderful, but practical considerations, especially access to medical care—became harder to ignore.

“It was time for a change,” Bob says simply.

Did you have any hesitations?

The transition brought some hesitation, but it didn’t last long. Today, the peace of mind they’ve found is just as meaningful as the lifestyle itself.

“I know we’re taken care of here,” Bob says.

Dot agrees. “I feel relaxed and secure. We’ve already talked about next steps if we ever need them, and the support is here.”

What is your advice?

“Don’t wait,” Bob says. “It’s much easier to make the move on your own terms.”

Dot smiles. “In our wildest dreams, we never imagined we’d have this much freedom. We’re relaxed, growing, thriving—and truly enjoying life.”

Her final words say it all:

“You will have a rich lifestyle if you come here.”

Donna

Finding Her Happy Place

According to Donna, moving to Rosewood has been the best decision she has ever made. A long-time resident of Bakersfield, Donna was very familiar with Rosewood and everything the community has to offer, but it took some time and deliberation before she finally made the move.

Donna continues to live independently and enjoys the many ways she stays active in her everyday life. From managing the jewelry department in the on-campus shop to welcoming new residents and playing bridge, Donna is grateful to have found her happy place at Rosewood.

“I love my apartment! It’s the right size for me,” she says. “And it has been a tremendous relief to give up home maintenance.”

“I have made wonderful friends — from the interesting and fun people who live here to the caring team members. Rosewood has been such a blessing for me.”

Ruth and Tom

From Newlyweds to New Neighbors

At Rosewood, life is designed to help residents live fully connected, active, and secure. For Ruth and Tom, that promise became reality when they chose Rosewood as the place to begin their life together as newlyweds and to build a future filled with joy, health, and peace of mind.

A Love Story That Led to Rosewood

Both widowed, Ruth and Tom were searching for companionship when they met online through Silver Singles. Living nearly 100 miles apart, they started with long conversations that quickly revealed shared life experiences, humor, and a mutual desire to embrace what life still had to offer.

“We had so much in common,” Ruth recalls. “Once we started talking on the phone, it felt natural—like we already understood each other.”

Two years later, they married and proudly describe themselves as newlyweds, recently celebrating their second anniversary.

Choosing Rosewood—At the Right Time

In April 2025, Ruth and Tom moved into their apartment at Rosewood. While downsizing was a practical decision, it was also deeply intentional.

“We didn’t want to leave our children with all our stuff,” Ruth explains. “We wanted to make this move while we were healthy, active, and able to make our own decisions.”

Their journey to Rosewood began unexpectedly—with a seminar invitation addressed to Ruth and her late husband. Curious, Ruth attended and was introduced to the concept of a life plan community.

“We thought we’d wait a couple of years,” she says. “But the more we learned, the more I realized—if we don’t move now, we’ll just keep procrastinating. So two years became two months.”

Tom was immediately supportive. “I wanted Ruth happy,” he says simply. “If she felt this was the right move, then it was the right move for us.”

Several factors sealed their decision: Rosewood’s solid concrete construction (“It feels incredibly secure—no noise from above or below”), the nonprofit mission, and the reassurance of continuing care.

“It matters to us that the money goes back into the community,” Tom adds. “You can feel that commitment here.”

Life at Rosewood: Active, Engaged, and Fun

Since moving to Rosewood, both Ruth and Tom say their lives have changed in ways they never expected.

“I’ve never been this active,” Ruth says with a smile. Chair yoga quickly became a staple of her routine. “I was hesitant at first, but the instructors are wonderful and encourage you to do what you can. I go every Monday and Friday now—it’s helped me tremendously.”

And then there’s Bingo. “Every Thursday—35 of us!” she laughs. “I love seeing people, laughing, and just having fun.”

Tom has embraced Rosewood’s social energy as well. “This place made me more outgoing,” he jokes. “I think people talk to me to just to hear my Irish accent!”

He enjoys chair yoga (“even if I’m the only rooster in the hen house at times”), corn hole, and time on the putting green with friends.

Together, the couple have taken advantage of Rosewood’s transportation services to attend outings to the coast, visit Tehachapi’s Depot Museum, enjoy local casinos, and attend Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra concerts.

“That’s something we never really did before,” Tom says. “Now we feel connected—to Rosewood and to the larger community—in a whole new way.”

More Than a Community—A Sense of Belonging

For Ruth, Rosewood has opened an entirely new social chapter.

“I’ve moved around a lot and was used to keeping to myself,” she says. “But the people here are wonderful. We’ve made friends I know will last a lifetime.”

She also feels a sense of security she didn’t have before. “I didn’t feel safe in my old neighborhood—there were loose dogs everywhere. Here, the walking paths are beautiful and secure.”

Tom agrees wholeheartedly. “Everything here—the food, the activities, the exercise, the people—I love it all.”

Looking Ahead with Confidence

Living at Rosewood has reshaped how Ruth and Tom see the years ahead.

“I feel happier and healthier,” Ruth says. “I truly believe this place will prolong my life. There’s always something to look forward to—people to meet, things to do, reasons to get up and live the day.”

Tom adds his own blend of wisdom and humor: “My future? Live every day as if it’s your last—one day you will be right.”

Advice for Those Considering Rosewood

Their advice to others considering a life plan community is simple.

“Do it while you’re healthy,” Ruth says. “Give yourself the chance to stay active, independent, and social.”

Tom agrees. “I’d recommend Rosewood to anyone who’s retired and wants to enjoy life without burdening their kids. This community is safe, caring, and full of good people. It gives you peace of mind.”