We need more assisted-living homes

Friday, October 11, 2002 | by

Rhoda Goldman Plaza in San Francisco is about to celebrate its second anniversary. The fact that the assisted-living facility has no current vacancies is a testament to the huge need for such homes in the Bay Area.

In the East Bay city of Danville, the Reutlinger Community for Jewish Living generally finds itself full to capacity as well.

Modern medicine is allowing all of us to live longer, but not necessarily in our own homes. Some seniors will require assisted living, including 24-hour nursing.

Not only is all that and more available at both Rhoda Goldman and Reutlinger, but the facilities also take care of Alzheimer's patients in special wings.

Certainly, there are other Jewish facilities for seniors in our community, but there are not enough options. Chai House in San Jose and Menorah Park in San Francisco are independent-living facilities, while San Francisco's Jewish Home is a skilled-nursing residence, providing extended care.

Why aren't there more Jewish assisted-living facilities? That's a question we've been asking for a long time.

As the baby-boom generation nears retirement age, it won't be too long before demand for assisted living outstrips supply—if that hasn't happened already.

Many in this generation would value a Jewish environment that provides regular synagogue services and kosher meals, catering to a clientele that shares a common culture.

But such facilities won't be built unless more people in the Jewish community raise their voices and demand it. More importantly, a lot of money must be contributed to make this happen.

Both the Peninsula and Marin County are likely candidates for future homes as is the Oakland area, where the Home for Jewish Parents used to be before moving to Danville and becoming the Reutlinger center.

We are pleased that the second anniversary of Rhoda Goldman Plaza has given us the opportunity to revisit the need for more such facilities in the Bay Area. We hope this raises the consciousness of those who can make this a reality.