Published: November 18, 2022
Reviewed by: Deidre Sommerer, LPN, MS, CMC, CDP

If you’re like many Jewish seniors, your faith has an impact on every part of your life. From day-to-day activities to relationships and the meals you share with loved ones, there are rituals and traditions that add color and rhythm to life. When you’re ready to move into a senior living community, you’ll want to continue those traditions and choose a new home that supports your faith and culture. 

Thankfully, there are faith-based communities around the country that are guided by Jewish values, such as freedom of choice, living with dignity and the significance of a meaningful life. Around 29% of the 5.8 million Jewish adults living in the United States are aged 65 and over, and Jewish senior living communities cater to their needs. These communities allow older Jewish adults to live with like-minded individuals and worship as part of a strong, Jewish community. 

This guide provides an overview of Jewish senior living and explains how it’s different from standard care. It also contains information on finding the right senior living community for your needs, as well as a list of resources that serve seniors.

What Is Jewish Senior Living, and How Is It Different From Regular Senior Care?

Jewish senior living communities offer older Jewish adults the opportunity to practice their faith and enjoy a sense of community as they age. These facilities support seniors who wish to live a Jewish way of life, even as they’re downsizing or looking for a living arrangement that provides care services. The personal care, medical services and amenities provided are the same as those found in secular communities that offer equivalent care, but they’re designed with the needs of Jewish seniors in mind. 

What Is Offered in Standard Senior Living Communities? 

There are a variety of senior care options available to older adults in the United States. These options are designed to meet different needs, wishes and budgets. All licensed facilities must meet certain standards, regardless of whether they’re faith-based. The table below describes each type of senior care, the amenities and services available and who they’re most suited for.

Type of CareTypical Services and AmenitiesBest Suited For
Independent LivingDoesn’t provide care servicesOutside maintenance tasks are usually includedAmenities often include community spaces, social activities and mealsIndependent seniors

Seniors who wish to live in a community of peers with easily accessible amenities
Assisted LivingAmenities typically include meals, social activities, transportation and community spacesResidents receive assistance with activities of daily livingMany facilities provide housekeeping and laundry servicesSeniors who need some assistance with daily tasks 
Nursing HomeNurses oversee residents’ careDaily therapy is often availableMeals are providedSocial activities and amenities Seniors with complex medical needs who require around-the-clock carePeople who are recovering from an illness or surgery
Memory CareNursing care and supervision and medication managementAssistance with activities of daily livingActivity programs to stimulate memoriesAdvanced security features for resident safetyTeam members have specialized trainingOlder adults with advanced Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia
Adult day careSocial activities, lunch and snacks in a supervised environmentSome centers may include health monitoringSeniors who require care during the day while their regular caregiver is at workMay also provide daytime respite care when needed
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)Provide the same services and level of care as standalone facilitiesSeniors can transition to a higher level of care as needed without moving to a new communitySeniors who want to remain in the same home, even if their needs changeCouples who want to live in the same community but require different levels of care

Unique Services and Amenities Provided in Jewish Senior Living  Communities

Unique Services and Amenities Provided in Jewish Senior Living  Communities

Jewish senior living communities provide these standard services, but also have an environment that allows seniors to continue the practices and traditions that are part of their life. Each community is unique, but generally, they all offer services that fit into the following categories. 

Environment

In addition to the physical environment, communities offer meaningful activities and dedicated staff members to support the welcoming feel of the facility. 

Physical Environment

Jewish senior living communities make deliberate choices in the facility’s environment to assist Jewish residents. This can have an impact on the physical environment. For example, apartments are likely to have both hot and cold water taps, so residents don’t accidentally use hot water on Shabbat. Some communities may also be able to accommodate gender segregation when required. 

Staff

Although it’s not possible to only hire Jewish caregivers, it’s likely that team members will have additional training to help them understand Judaism and how to assist residents, such as performing tasks for residents on Shabbat. As many Jewish people emigrated to the United States after World War II, many senior communities offer specific support to seniors who arrived from Europe at that time. This may include bilingual staff and translators to assist those who speak English as a second language. Memory care residents often need these supports. Many communities also provide trauma-trained therapists and other supports for Holocaust survivors and their families. 

Activities

Activities often emphasize a connection to Jewish traditions. Religious music is popular, and local Jewish schools may do performances for residents. These facilities may have a community kitchen where residents can eat kosher meals and bake challah together, and many facilities offer religious studies to help people connect to their faith every day. Residents are provided with opportunities to connect to the wider Jewish community and perform outreach, such as visiting the sick in hospitals and helping older Jewish adults in secular senior homes celebrate festivals. 

Religious Lifestyle

One benefit of a Jewish senior living facility is that religious practices are incorporated in daily life, so seniors won’t have to give that up as they age and become less mobile. 

Jewish Services

Some Jewish senior living communities have religious services on-site and most provide transportation to local synagogues. A rabbi may visit and worship with residents who are unable to attend due to health or mobility concerns. Almost all Jewish communities are welcoming to people of all faiths, and they may also offer nondenominational services for residents of other religions. 

Jewish Rituals 

The community will generally observe the sabbath every week, bringing residents together and strengthening bonds. It’s likely that Jewish holidays will also be celebrated, allowing people who have no family nearby to continue to participate in familiar traditions. Residents may also be able to sit shiva together when a member of the community passes away. 

Diet

For many Jewish seniors, a kosher diet is an integral part of their faith. Although many secular facilities around the country have kosher meals available, a Jewish senior community is likely to offer more choices at mealtimes. Kitchens may also include traditional foods, such as latkes, knish and shakshuka. Some facilities advertise kosher-only kitchens that are only used to cook and store kosher foods. If you want to keep kosher, you can request to see the facility’s kosher certification and ask about the certifications of any preprepared foods brought in.

Ownership and Operation

Jewish senior living facilities are typically run as nonprofit organizations. This means there’s a board of directors who make decisions, ensuring the mission of the facility is carried out. In many organizations, a rabbi attends meetings to offer guidance to the board. Although staff members may not be Jewish, these communities are usually run or managed by people of the Jewish faith. This ensures the interests of Jewish residents are considered whenever decisions are being made. 

Community

The biggest benefit of a Jewish retirement community is that you’ll be living among people who share your faith, traditions and values. Studies show that religious Americans are healthier, happier and more satisfied with their personal life than nonreligious Americans. A large part of this is due to the social ties of a religious community and the support that’s provided during times of hardship and grief. In a Jewish senior community, these religious ties are part of your daily life, which can enhance happiness. 

In addition, the people around you share the same traditions and participate in the same rituals. Celebrating Hanukkah or observing Shabbat with other members of the community can enhance your feeling of belonging, which may not be the case in a secular facility. 

What To Expect From Jewish Senior Living

What To Expect From Jewish Senior Living

Every state has rules and regulations that govern the different levels of senior care and must be followed by all licensed facilities. Whether you choose a faith-based or standard senior community, the level of care you receive should be the same. These rules can govern the number of caregivers on duty, room sizes and staff qualifications. 

Where Jewish senior living differs from other communities is its emphasis on Jewish traditions and values. The activities and amenities provided are designed to build a strong culture centered on the Jewish faith. It’s important to understand the services and amenities offered in each level of care, so you can decide which type of facility is right for you. 

Independent Living

This senior living option is designed for older adults who can still live independently but are looking to downsize to a community designed with their needs in mind. 

Accommodation
Seniors live in independent residences in a planned neighborhood or apartment building. Homes are generally smaller than average and may include features, such as ramps and wider doorways, for people who use mobility aids. 

Care
Personal care is not included, as these communities are designed for people who can live independently. Some facilities may offer certain medical services, such as physical therapy, on campus for an additional fee.

Services
Home maintenance is generally taken care of, such as gutter cleaning and yard work. Some communities may offer housekeeping and other services for an additional fee. 

Amenities

Communities have amenities designed with the needs of seniors in mind. In Jewish independent living communities, this may include:

  • Visiting rabbis
  • Kosher meals
  • Communal areas, such as gardens, game rooms and libraries
  • Social activities including music, Mah Jongg and special interest groups
  • Transportation to synagogues, appointments and local attractions

Adult Day Care

Adult day care is a type of group care offered during business hours. 

Accommodation
Adult day care is generally provided in a community hall, senior center or similar group setting. It provides supervision and care to seniors during the day when their usual caregivers are at work. Occasional respite care may be available, such as when caregivers have appointments during the day. 

Care
Most adult day care groups only provide supervision and activities. Some locations offer adult day health care, which includes limited health monitoring, check-ups and medication reminders.

Services
In addition to supervision, adult day care provides participants with a nutritious lunch and snacks. 

Amenities
Jewish adult day care may include:

  • Social activities, such as religious study and wellness activities
  • Kosher meals
  • Visits from rabbis or other spiritual advisors

Assisted Living

Assisted living is designed for seniors who are largely independent but need assistance with some daily activities. 

Accommodation
Residents generally live in private rooms or small apartments in a larger building. In most communities, seniors have access to private bathroom facilities and may also have a kitchenette. 

Care
Assisted living is designed for people who need some help with daily activities. Caregivers are available to provide personal care, such as grooming, bathing and walking. Facilities may also offer additional health services, including medication reminders and licensed nurses on staff. 

Services
Kosher meals and regular snacks are included in Jewish assisted living facilities. Many communities also provide housekeeping, maintenance and laundry services. 

Amenities
Amenities found at Jewish assisted living facilities may include:

  • Communal spaces, such as game rooms, libraries and craft rooms
  • Outdoor areas, such as patios and walking trails
  • Visiting rabbis
  • Transportation to synagogues, medical appointments and local attractions
  • Social activities, such as music, religious study and visits from Jewish schools

Memory Care

Memory care provides care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other conditions that cause cognitive impairment. Services include enhanced security features to prevent wandering, communal living areas to promote socialization and activities specially designed for people with cognitive impairment.

Accommodation
Memory care is often offered in a smaller neighborhood within an assisted living facility. It can also be provided in a standalone facility or as part of nursing home care. Residents are generally accommodated in private rooms. 

Care
Memory care facilities offer personal care services, such as assistance with grooming, bathing and eating. Staff is specially trained to assist people with Alzheimer’s disease. It’s likely that the community will have nurses on staff to oversee health care and visiting physicians to provide more complex medical services. 

Services
In addition to housekeeping and maintenance services, memory care facilities provide meals and snacks. Many offer specialized programs to enhance memories and support people with dementia. 

Amenities
Jewish memory care facilities are likely to offer the following amenities:

  • Transportation to synagogues or worship services with visiting rabbis
  • Cultural and faith-based activities

Nursing Home Care

Nursing homes are designed for frail seniors and those with complex needs who require extensive assistance. 

Accommodation
Most nursing homes offer private or semiprivate rooms. These are generally set up like hospital rooms, allowing nursing staff and caregivers to provide the health care each resident requires. 

Care
Personal care is provided by licensed caregivers, and medical assistance is available around the clock. This can include medication administration, physical and occupational therapy and visits from nurses and physicians. 

Services
Kosher meals are provided, and housekeeping and laundry services are taken care of by staff. 

Amenities
Nursing homes have a focus on health care, rather than a wide range of amenities. Some amenities may include:

  • Group activities, such as visits from Jewish school children
  • Worship services with visiting rabbis
  • Communal living areas

Continuing Care Retirement Community

Continuing care retirement communities, or CCRCs, offer a range of care types on a single campus. The most common senior living types found at CCRCs are independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing care, although some also offer memory care. 

Accommodation
Accommodation depends on the level of care you need and matches what you’d generally find in standalone communities that provide equivalent care. Often the different accommodation types are in different areas of the campus, but communal areas, such as gardens, living rooms and dining rooms, are shared among all residents. 

Care
The care provided in CCRCs depends on which part of the community you reside in and matches the care provided by equivalent standalone communities. The biggest benefit to CCRCs is that you can easily transition to a higher level of care as your needs change. 

Services
Services match what’s available in standalone communities. Seniors in independent living residences may be able to access extra services for an additional fee. Kosher meals are available to assisted living and nursing home residents, and most CCRCs also offer some or all meals to independent living residents. 

Amenities
A range of activities and amenities are typically offered to the whole community, providing ample opportunities to develop relationships and stay in touch with friends who have transitioned to a different level of care. Some of the amenities offered can include:

  • Transportation to synagogues
  • Visits from rabbis and other spiritual advisors
  • Social activities and group outings
  • Communal areas, including libraries, great rooms and gardens

How Much Does Jewish Senior Living Cost? 

Senior living costs can vary greatly, depending on the facility’s location, the level of care you require and the amenities provided. Religious affiliation doesn’t change the cost significantly. However, as many Jewish senior living communities are run as nonprofit organizations, you may find their costs are on the lower end of the scale when compared to secular facilities with similar levels of amenities and services.

Location is one of the biggest factors influencing the cost of senior care. Across the United States, independent living prices range from $1,950 in Missouri to $4,440 in Alaska. You can also find differences within states, reflecting the cost of living in a particular city, how easy it is to find caregivers and the desirability of a location. For example, in Walla Walla, Washington, the average cost of assisted living is $3,211 per month. Closer to the coast in Longview, the price rises to $5,300.

The table below highlights the average national costs for the different types of senior care available in the United States, according to the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey

Type of CareAverage Monthly Cost
Adult Day Health Care$1,690
Independent Living$2,925
Assisted Living$4,500
Memory Care$5,625
Nursing Home Care (semiprivate room)$7,908
In-Home Care$4,957
Home Health Care$5,148

Genworth doesn’t track the cost of independent living or memory care, so the figures above are based on assisted living costs. As independent living costs are 30-40% cheaper than assisted living, this figure was calculated by subtracting 35% from assisted living costs. Memory care is generally 20-30% more expensive, and the above figure was calculated by adding 25% to assisted living prices.

Tips for Finding a Jewish Senior Living Community 

It can take some time to find the right senior community for your needs. Each has a different culture, and it’s important to choose somewhere that makes you feel at home. It can be helpful to compile a list of possible communities in your area before looking closely at what they offer. These tips can help you find faith-based options. 

  • Contact the Association of Jewish Aging Services. AJAS promotes and supports services for Jewish seniors in the U.S. It keeps a database of Jewish senior communities, which you can search to find services in your area. 
  • Ask for recommendations. It’s likely that local Jewish groups and synagogues can recommend facilities in your local area. You can also ask friends and family who have already moved into senior living for options they explored during their search. 
  • Research online. Searching the internet for Jewish senior living in your area can provide a list of options nearby.
  • Look for communities close to synagogues. This can be helpful if you’re looking for a facility in an area you don’t know well. Many are located close to places of worship. By locating a synagogue, you can see if there are Jewish senior living communities in the surrounding streets and neighborhoods. 

Once you have a list of possibilities, you should arrange a visit. This allows you to see in person what the culture is like, if people are friendly and what services are offered. The checklist below gives you an idea of what to look for and can help you narrow down your options.

Where to Find Jewish Senior Living

To help you in your search for the right Jewish senior living community, we’ve compiled a list of facilities throughout the country. 

Arizona

Kivel Campus of Care is a Jewish independent living and assisted living home for seniors that offers studio and one-bedroom apartments. Services include assistance with activities of daily living, medication management and social and recreational programs. Residents have access to a 24-hour emergency call system throughout the community.

California

The Albert Einstein Residence Center provides housing for older adults and people with disabilities who want to live independently. There are 77 air-conditioned apartment units available. A resident service coordinator is someone who helps assess each tenant’s needs and connect them with outside agencies and services if needed. The meal program provides kosher dinners every weeknight, and there are also other amenities like a library, beauty salon, and exercise equipment on site.

Seniors who are looking for a great place to live will love the San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living. This community has 478 apartments that offer private dining rooms or family-style kitchens. The community provides help with activities of daily living, including bathing, toileting, dressing, housekeeping and laundry services. It also hosts meaningful activities and programs to keep residents busy and improve their social life.

Seacrest Village is a place where Jewish seniors can live. There are different levels of care, depending on how much help someone needs. These include assisted living, memory care, independent living and skilled nursing care. People who live here can choose between different types and sizes of apartments. There are also caregivers and registered nurses available 24/7 if someone needs help. Other amenities on site include a pool, synagogue and theater.

Colorado

Kavod Senior Life is a community for seniors aged 62 and over. It is based on the Jewish faith. Caregivers are available 24/7 to help with everyday tasks and to check on the seniors regularly. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy services are offered at Kavod Senior Life.

  • Shalom Park
    Address 14800 E. Belleview Dr., Aurora, CO 80015
Shalom Park is an assisted living and nursing community for Jewish seniors. It provides skilled nursing based on individual care plans. The rehabilitation services it offers include speech therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy. Each room has telephone service and cable TV. It also has daily social and enrichment activities like game nights, movie nights and arts and crafts.

Connecticut

Jewish Senior Services is a place where Jewish seniors can live. We make sure they have what they need to be comfortable and safe. Residents live in small groups with people who need the same level of care as them. They have their own space but share some areas with other residents. Kosher meals are provided along with recreational programming.

Federation Homes is a community for seniors sponsored by the Jewish Federation. This ensures that low-income adults have access to housing. All residents have their own apartment with a kitchen and temperature control. A Kosher lunch is served in a community dining area and residents can use an on-site laundry facility and lending library.

The Towers at Tower Lane is an apartment complex that offers seniors independent and assisted living options. The community is governed by Jewish principles, and it offers affordable housing options with funding from HUD. Residents receive kosher meals and can socialize in the courtyards, participate in enrichment activities or sign up for regular outings that match their interests.

Delaware

Kurtz Senior Living Campus is a Jewish assisted living and skilled nursing facility that provides a wide range of services, including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory care, and social and enrichment activities.

Florida

River Garden Senior Services is a nursing home that delivers compassionate care based on Jewish values. Residents are cared for by full-time medical staff and have access to physical and occupational therapy at the on-site gym. Elegant dining areas, weekly housekeeping and 24-hour security ensure residents have their basic needs met.

Toby Weinman is a Jewish assisted living community that is located within Menorah Park. This means that residents receive three kosher meals that are prepared by a chef every day. They also have access to housekeeping, laundry, and help with activities of daily living. All residents have their own private apartment, but they can also go to common areas like the beauty shop, coffee shop, or outdoor patio areas.

Miami Jewish Health provides a caring and supportive environment for its residents. A team of skilled professionals offer comprehensive individual health services, including primary, specialist, palliative, kidney and memory care. In addition, customized daily activities and routines are in place to enrich the lives of residents.

Georgia

The William-Breman Jewish Home is a long-term nursing and rehabilitation facility that offers 24/7 supervision and care. In addition to around the clock care, the facility offers short-term rehabilitation services such as occupational, physical, and speech therapy for both inpatients and outpatients. The home also offers activities like art therapy and bingo to help residents stay active.

Illinois

The Selfhelp Home is a Jewish retirement community which offers independent and assisted living, as well as outpatient therapies. Services include two Kosher meals a day, regular health checks and assistance with activities of daily living. The community offers weekly Shabbat services and Jewish holiday observances. An emergency call system is in place throughout the community.

Park Plaza is a Jewish senior independent living community that provides residents with private one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartments complete with fully-equipped kitchens and bathrooms with walk-in showers. All apartments come with Wi-Fi, cable TV, and weekly housekeeping. Social and enrichment activities are available for residents, as well as transportation to medical appointments and community outings. Park Plaza is a great option for seniors who are looking for an independent living community that offers all the amenities and services they need to live comfortably.

Kansas

Village Shalom is a retirement community for Jewish people. Residents can live independently in villas and apartments, with access to a variety of amenities. These amenities include a wellness center with therapeutic pools and fitness equipment, as well as the Stonecreek Bistro entertainment hub.

Maine

  • The Cedars
    Address 630 Ocean Ave., Portland, ME 04103
The Cedars is a community for Jewish seniors. It offers different types of living arrangements, depending on how much assistance someone needs. There are also different places to live, depending on what kind of care someone needs. Licensed nurses are always available to help residents with anything they need, including 24/7 care, assistance with activities of daily living, and an on-site rehabilitation center.

Maryland

Charles E. Smith Life Communities provides various types of living accommodations and care services for Jewish people, including independent living, outpatient care, assisted living, memory care, long-term care, rehabilitation, and home care. The staff includes Life Skills Assistants and registered nurses who are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are also available on-site in the rehab suite. In addition, there is a full-time physician on-site.

Massachusetts

JGS Lifecare – Ruth’s House Assisted Living Residence is a Jewish community designed for older adults. Here, residents can pick between private and companion suites. Three kosher meals are served every day, and there is also an on-site Country Café. If residents need help with activities of daily living, staff are available to assist them. There is also an on-site primary care geriatrician. Plus, a rabbi is always on site.

The Jeffrey & Susan Brudnick Center for Living is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility that is Jewish. The community has accommodations for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory-related conditions. Its clinical team provides services around the clock, including the administration of medication and treatments. The dining program features a rotating menu, and an activities program is offered.

The Jewish Healthcare Center is a community for Jewish seniors who need help with everyday activities. It offers long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, home care services, hospice services and Alzheimer’s care. Residents can enjoy three meals a day in the dining room and additional snacks. The community provides assistance with daily living activities, medication management and transportation services. Seniors can participate in group outings and community-sponsored activities.

Michigan

Coville Assisted Living is a care facility for Jewish seniors. It provides a warm, home-like environment for older adults of all faiths. The community offers spacious, well-maintained private apartments with amenities like barrier-free bathrooms, a kitchenette and comfortable communal spaces. Residents enjoy three home-cooked, kosher meals daily and receive skilled nursing care and assistance with daily activities like grooming, housekeeping and laundry.

Minnesota

For Jewish seniors who desire an active and social retirement, the Sholom West Campus is an ideal community. With six facilities that include independent living one- or two-bedroom homes, assisted living apartments, rehabilitation accommodations, memory care neighborhoods, adult day programs and HUD-supported senior apartments, there is something for everyone at Sholom West Campus. In addition, kosher dining and a full schedule of activities, classes and events are available to residents, making this community the perfect place to retire.

Sholom East Campus is an apartment complex where people can get help with everyday tasks. The Bentson Residences have apartments of different sizes for residents. This community also provides services and programs to help residents stay healthy, social, and engaged. Meals are available that follow the kosher diet and housekeeping, laundry, and linen services are provided for residents.

Nebraska

If you’re in need of long-term residential care, look no further than the Rose Blumkin Jewish Home. In addition to memory care and respite/hospice services, the home-cooked meals are healthy and made from scratch. They also have options for those strictly following a Kosher diet. A calendar of daily activities helps residents stay fit and engaged. You can choose between semiprivate or private rooms.

New Jersey

Seashore Gardens Living Center is a Jewish community located on a 20-acre campus. They offer independent living, assisted living, long-term care and memory care. In addition, they have skilled nursing for long-term care residents and nurses for memory care residents. Kosher-style meals are provided, and residents can eat at the on-site Boardwalk Café.

Jewish Federation Plaza is an independent living community that offers services such as five Kosher dinners per week. All residents have private apartments and access to community rooms, the dining hall, a computer room with Wi-Fi, a beauty shop and a lending library. For safety, seniors also have 24/7 emergency pendants.

Greenwood House Senior Healthcare has become a successful senior community that offers skilled nursing, rehabilitation, hospice and assisted living. Residents receive three daily kosher meals as well as enrichment programs, community group visits, outdoor entertainment and pet therapy. Housekeeping and laundry services are available along with 24/7 access to staff.

New York

The Jewish Senior Life is a retirement home that is only for people who are Jewish. There are different types of care available, from being able to live independently to having someone help you with everything. The apartments are big and have kitchens that come with everything you need. There is also an emergency call system that works 24 hours a day. People who live here get yummy meals, help with things like taking a shower and getting dressed, and access to fun activities.

RiverSpring Assisted Living is a long-term care community in The Bronx that features modern apartments with full bathrooms and Ethan Allen furnishings. Residents can get a workout in the fitness center or aquatics pool, enjoy live music and cultural events, and access the Derfner Judaica Museum and kosher meal service.

Cedarbrook offers assisted living services for those who need a little extra help with activities of daily living. Staff is available 24/7 to provide assistance, and non-kosher meals are served three times daily. Residents can also cook in their own apartments if they choose. There is a full array of social activities every day, as well as access to a community gym.

Ohio

Montefiore of Menorah Park is a place where people can go to get help from nurses. It is also a place for people with memory problems. There are lots of activities for the people who live there, like outings, beauty salon, social events and more.

Jewish seniors can enjoy a retirement lifestyle of their choice at Wexner Heritage Village. With a variety of one- or two-bedroom apartments available for independent or assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care, residents can find the perfect level of care to suit their needs. 24/7 nursing care is available on-site, along with delicious dining options.

Majestic Care of Cedar Village provides nursing care, speech therapy, physical therapy, and occupational therapy to patients 24 hours a day. The community also has an aquatic therapy program. Respite care, hospice care, and memory care are also available. A rabbi is on staff.

Oklahoma

Zarrow Pointe is a place where Jewish seniors can live. They can have help if they need it, but also live independently. There are people to help with physical, occupational, and speech therapy if needed. The health center is open 24/7 and there are nurses on call for the assisted living apartments. Residents get three meals a day and transportation to appointments and outings that are planned.

Oregon

Rose Schnitzer Manor is an assisted living community for Jewish people. The kitchen only serves kosher food, and there are Shabbat services every week. There is always someone around to help with things like getting dressed or other tasks, if you need it. There are also lots of activities available, including 75 different things to do every week. You can go on trips to see plays and concerts, for example.

Tennessee

Plough Towers is a Jewish retirement community with 150 apartments that allow pets. Each apartment has one or two bedrooms and emergency call buttons. Residents have access to a community room, library, and computer center. Transportation to shopping areas and grocery stores is also available.

Certified, licensed and registered nurses provide 24/7 care at Memphis Jewish Home and Rehab. Personalized health care plans are created for each resident based on their medical, nursing, dietary and social needs. Although Jewish traditions prevail, all faiths are welcome, with Christian services delivered weekly by visiting clergy. Amenities include a full-service beauty salon and a family lounge as well as several gardens where seniors can relax.

Texas

Seven Acres is a retirement community that offers long-term care and rehabilitative services to Jewish seniors. We have on-site clinics and a medical suite to help coordinate specialty health care, and we can accommodate kosher meals and special diets. Our seniors can enrich their sense of community and celebrate their heritage through social events, games, and creative classes.

The Legacy Senior Communities – Willow Bend is a Jewish senior living facility that offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care, as well as skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Assistance with daily activities such as hygiene, dressing, and eating is available. The kitchen prepares kosher meals and can accommodate special diets. The grounds are well-kept with walking paths and gaming areas.

Virginia

Beth Sholom Senior Living offers different lifestyle options, like living independently or with help, memory care, or nursing services in a community that follows Jewish values. Residents are encouraged to join regularly scheduled activities on site, which could include musical performances and singalongs. Chefs make daily meals using fresh ingredients that come from local sources and are in season.

Beth Sholom Village is a Jewish community that offers different types of living options, activities, and services for its residents. The assisted living section has 70 apartments and provides activities such as ceramics, fine arts, and a library. Licensed nurses are on duty around the clock to provide care and assistance. Three kosher meals are served daily in the dining hall, and residents are encouraged to have their family and friends join them for meals.

Washington

Kline Galland Home is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation community for Jewish people, with beautiful views of a lake. The private rooms and common spaces are very clean and luxurious. There are three kosher meals served every day, and residents are encouraged to socialize through a busy schedule of activities. Memory care, long-term stays, adult day care, and rehabilitation or transitional programs are some of the care services offered.

Wisconsin

Ovation Jewish Home is an assisted living community on a lakefront that provides memory care, skilled nursing, and independent living services in an elegant setting. Seniors and their families receive support services in apartments with scenic views, featuring two households per floor. Ovation Jewish Home offers restaurant-style kosher dining options. Housekeeping, linen and transportation services are available.

Pennsylvania

Elan Skilled Nursing and Rehab is a senior living community that offers residents medical and rehabilitative care, social services, and Alzheimer’s and dementia care. The facility has on-site medical staff and 24-hour security for prompt responses, while social activities, such as clubs and outings, encourage residents to stay connected and engaged.

Federation Housing is an assisted living community that offers rental homes for seniors. The staff assists residents with activities such as bathing and grooming. Residents are provided subsidized meals and can access free transport to doctor’s appointments and shopping. The community schedules regular activities that cater to seniors’ physical and emotional well-being.

Financial Resources for Jewish Senior Living 

There are many government and nonprofit organizations that provide assistance to seniors. These can help older adults access necessities, such as nutrition, housing and health care. Local organizations can often be found through the internet or your synagogue. You can also find aid at the national organizations listed below. 


DescriptionAssistance AvailableContact
MedicareGovernment health insurance program available to eligible seniors aged 65 and over and those with a disabilityPays for covered medical expensesThere may be some out-of-pocket expenses, including premiums, copays and deductibles(800) 633-4227
MedicaidA government health insurance program for low-income residents that’s administered at the state level

Eligibility requirements differ depending on where you live
Pays for covered medical expenses and nursing home careOther benefits differ according to the state, but may include home care and assisted livingContact state offices
Department of Veterans AffairsAssistance available for those who served in the U.S. military and certain family membersFinancial assistance includes health care and pensionsSeniors may also be eligible for Aid and Attendance benefits, which can help pay for senior living(800) 698-2411
Network of Jewish Human Services AgenciesA membership organization of local Jewish Family and Children’s Agencies
Member agencies provide human services to people in the local areaIncludes a senior program that offers assisted living, home care and nutrition(201) 977-2400
The Blue CardHelps Holocaust survivors and their families who struggle to afford basic needsDirect financial assistance is provided through emergency and monthly programsOffers programs that help seniors access medical services, well-being programs and emergency response systems(212) 239-2251
The Jewish Federations of North AmericaAn umbrella organization of local Jewish Federations that support social welfare and services in their local communitiesLocal Federations provide a safety net for people in needThis includes home health care, housing, nutrition and transportation for older adults(212) 284-6500
Meals on Wheels AmericaNationwide organization that provides nutrition to homebound seniors Healthy, nutritious meals are delivered to seniorsVolunteers also conduct regular check-ins with recipientsMeals are designed to meet the tastes and needs of local residents, which often includes kosher mealsOther services may also be available in some locations, such as food for pets and congregate meals(888) 998-6325
Social Security AdministrationA government agency that provides financial protection for U.S. residentsEligible seniors can access retirement or disability benefits through SSAStates may also supplement Social Security payments for some recipients, which can be used to pay for senior living(800) 772-1213
Tax Credit for the Elderly and DisabledA tax credit for seniors aged 65 and older, as well as those who have a total and permanent disabilityThis program provides a federal income tax credit of between $3,750 and $7,500Seniors must meet income eligibility limits to qualify(800) 829-1040
Area Agencies on AgingAAAs help seniors access resources that can assist them as they ageThese agencies are located throughout the countryAAAs have experts available in person and over the phone who can refer seniors to local assistance and help them apply for government programsOther services differ based on the needs of local seniors, but they often include transportation, home care, senior centers, health insurance counseling and legal aidContact local offices