Moldaw Residences

Sue Hartenbaum: Why I chose Moldaw 3.16.26 If you are evaluating any Life Care Community in Silicon Valley, I am sure you have realized that there are many good local options. This is not an easy decision. However, Moldaw offers a few major differences that you may want to consider when comparing them. I will mention only 2 as I think they are exceptional. 1) Moldaw is the only truly intergenerational community. In actuality, it is one of just a handful in the country. Because it is combined with a entire campus, community center, and sports facility, on those days that you are discouraged with life issues and aging of your family, friends, or self, it provides a balance. It is uplifting to see all the preschoolers, summer day campers, young adults and families participating in their activities almost on your doorstep. Also, If you go to the gym and work out, or to the programs in the square, Cultural Hall, etc. there are persons of every age, religion and nationality enjoying the full range of activities here. Our apartments are not separated, but wrap around the community. It is the closest thing to a neighborhood your will find in such a place. 2) Every Independent Living Unit is also licensed by the state as Assistive Living. Why is that relevant? Most communities have separate Assisted Living and Memory Care units, which are often not full apartments. For most residents who need some additional support that would be provided in Assisted Living services or Memory Support, they would require the resident to move. Moving itself is stressful, and unlike Moldaw, those units often do not allow the resident to continue to be involved in all the activities and eat with all residents in the main dining areas. Moldaw’s integration allows the resident to keep up with their activities (if possible) and with their friends. We do have both separate Assisted Living and Memory Care units, but most residents choose to remain in their own apartment as long as possible. Those residents who do move into Moldaw’s Assisted Living and Memory Support are generally in need of far more support than the majority at Moldaw. That is when they move. Importantly, Moldaw has a well-earned reputation for being a family environment. It is large enough to have almost everything you might want in a community, but also small enough for each resident to know everyone. The staff is exceptionally kind, thoughtful and helpful as well. By moving here, I have taken the burden off my children’s need to care for me. As soon as my son saw how he could enjoy the time with me instead of constantly having to take care of my needs, he said “Mom, you are a genius to have moved here.” Considering that at age 15 he thought that I knew nothing, I guess I he thinks that I got smarter and smarter over the additional 70+ years.

I moved to Moldaw 13 years ago after my husband passed away because I didn’t want to live alone. As a World War II survivor who immigrated to the U.S. in 1954, community is very important to me. At Moldaw, I enjoy daily programs, meeting new people, and the freedom of not having to cook or clean. The transportation support and overall sense of care make life here comfortable and fulfilling. One of the main reasons I moved to Moldaw was because of the proximity to the JCC and all it’s programs.

What a fabulous place to live! We have been here for nearly three years and couldn't be happier. It is a friendly place above all, both residents and staff, with a deep culture of caring and respecting each other. Moldaw feels like you're living in a small town where everyone greets you and everyone knows your name. It is multi-generational and multi-cultural, open to all, and you don't feel like you're in an "old folks" home. There is so much to do right here on campus with a fabulous cultural hall, gym, swimming pools, cafe, gift shop, lectures, etc. The association with the JCC is a unique and tremendous benefit. Oh, and by the way, the food is terrific and our apartment couldn't be better. We love it. Ann and Alan

I’ve been living at Moldaw for over 7 years and have found it to be a welcoming, supportive, and friendly community. There are more activities than I can take advantage of. It’s a great place to live! And I love being on the campus of the JCC, which offers even more activities.