Elderly Options some assistance to maintain their in- dependence. For example, the Fleischman Residence/Blumberg Plaza addresses the advancing frailties of age by offering some assistance when people cannot manage on their own and, at the same time, providing a degree of flex- ibility to accommodate the changing needs of the tenants through the plan and design of the residence. The average age of the 109 residents at Fleischman is 86. Three kosher meals are provided each day at the facility located on the Jewish Community Center Campus at Maple and Drake roads. Private rooms vary in size and range in rent. Fees include housekeeping, transportation, and utilities except for telephone. Low in- come individuals receive government subsidy. "Most of the social activities for this hotel-like living residence takes place at Blumberg Plaza which includes cof- fee and gift shops, library and activi- ty rooms shared with the Hechtman apartments," says Julie Sonenberg, administrator. "Each of the three floors has a large furnished lounge and laundry facility. Mini-kitchens are available for residents who want to cook for family and friends. Right now we have no waiting list. The Hechtman apartments are one of four Jewish Federation Apartment sites for the independent elderly; the other three located in Oak Park. Sub- sidized by HUD, residents pay 30 per- cent of their monthly income for ren- ting the apartment which includes a bedroom, kitchen area, bathroom and living room. Above Stool Available in Black on Black or White on White. In stock at '99. Several Others For Any & Every Room Decor From '39. 828 North Main Street Downtown Rochester 652-1080 36 HOME "The average age of our residents is about 81 years," says Helen Naimark, director, "and we expect them to manage their own daily liv- ing activities although some do hire help for extra assistance. We have about 550 residents in these apart- ments and there is a waiting list. That's because there's more here than just a nice place to live. There's the privacy of one's own apartment, a Jewish ambiance, the resources of community agencies and affordable rent." As another alternative to assisted living, Jewish Family Services has put together group apartments for the elderly. Seven apartments at North Park Place will eventually house 21 elderly residents. A geriatric worker provides meals and housekeeping services on weekdays. Another congregate housing facili- ty for the elderly is Novi Village by the Lake located off of Pontiac Trail. TN° meals plus a continental break- fast, daily housekeeping, and weekly laundry services are included in the fee. Amenities include a beauty and barber shop on the premises as well as a coffee/card room. There are sit- ting rooms and lounges in each hallway and meeting rooms for special events. Guest suites are also available. A 24-hour security staff is Since fewer older people live with their children, many housing developments provide services for the elderly that include prepared meals, shopping and rides to the local doctor. on hand for emergencies and transportation for appointments and shopping is also provided. Other special services at Novi Village include a monthly visit by a physician, regular visits by a podiatrist, pharmacy delivery, transportation for appointments and shopping. Several of the rooms are barrier-free with total wheelchair access. "Our staff is very much aware that the needs of elderly, even as they age in place, must be met," explains Bar- bara Lipkowitz, director. "We think of home as a healing place and we try to provide all the services that some- one would have at their own home. For instance, if one of our residents has surgery, we do not expect her to go to a nursing home even if it's on- ly temporary. We work with a home health care agency that families can hire to provide all the services a resi- dent needs to recover from illness or Continued on Page 41