Alzheimer's Facility to Break Ground

Called "The Grove," the center, located at the southwest corner of at 800 Blossom Hill Rd., is estimated to cost $5.5 million and will include 26 suites for patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease, dementia and needing assistance with their daily living in their golden years.

According to American Baptist Homes of the West, owners of The Terraces, the facility addresses a growing need Los Gatos and surrounding areas about the lack of sufficient housing and care facilities for seniors suffering from memory loss and other debilitating issues as they age.

“It’s really unfortunate to see someone have to go outside of Los Gatos to visit a loved one who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease or some other type of dementia,” says Alex Candalla, executive director at The Terraces of Los Gatos. “We’re pleased that we will now have this program available here on our campus and in our town.”

The number of Californians who suffer from a type of dementia is expected to rise by approximately one-third over the next decade, according to the Alzheimer’s Association Disease Facts and Figures.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, but other types include loss in memory or cognitive skills. Statistics also show that an estimated 5.4 million people in the United States—including half a million in California alone—have Alzheimer’s disease. The association projects those numbers to triple by the year 2050.

“We’re always focused on enhancing the lifestyle, well-being and security of older adults in the Silicon Valley and meeting their ever-changing needs,” says Candalla.

Construction of The Grove is expected to be complete by summer of 2013.

The Terraces currently includes 18 buildings that house 175 independent-living units, 59 skilled-nursing units and 35 assisted-living units. Twenty nine of the independent-living units are below market price units, according to a staff report.

The Terraces is a nonprofit facility accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities-Continuing Care Accreditation Commission, or CARF-CCAC. The seal of approval assures residents and their families that the community meets national standards for quality care.

Details: 408-356-1006 or visit http://www.TheTerracesofLosGatos.com.