The Sequoias Portola Valley

The Sequoias is an “active retirement community” that includes lifetime assisted living and medical care. Located near the Coastal Ranges, the facility borders 2,000 acres of public land, much of which is covered with hiking trails. Covered walkways connect the community’s thirty buildings, which feature Japanese-style peaked roofs and spreading overhangs. The buildings cluster around landscaped courtyards; the scene resembles a Japanese village. One walkway overlooks an undeveloped valley—a natural scenic lookout point.The residents appreciate the privilege of living here. When we visited, several residents mentioned that they had recommended the facility to their younger family members and friends. The staff seems to enjoy working here as well. Several programs enable knowledgeable and talented residents to share their expertise with others: a few of the residents lead ESL classes as part of this project.The sprawling campus includes both the assisted living and skilled nursing units, which are part of the lifetime commitment purchased at the time one moves into the facility. The units are not available to individuals who are not already members. It is quite necessary to plan ahead for those considering this facility as an option. A garden filled with flowers and grasses is known as the “edible garden project”; everything is edible. The central gathering room of the SNF is the preeminent destination for cut flowers from the “cutting” garden, which is designed and maintained by the residents. A new building, slated to open in the spring of 2007, will incorporate the best environmental design to support dementia care. In the meantime, residents enjoy and benefit from the current specialized services.