Construction of new assisted living wing begins at La Posada

Fulfilling the need for additional and larger assisted living suites, the La Posada Foundation has been raising funds and the initial phase of construction for 21 units has begun.

The new wing, to be called The Holmlund “La Joya” Assisted Living Suites continues to honor Frances Sample Holmlund; she was the original $1 million donor and Tucson Medical Center matched her donation.

Of the 21 new suites being built, 13 will be one-bedroom suites of 650 square feet, and eight will be two-bedroom suites of 850 square feet. Additionally, there will be a separate dining room for residents.

The $6.2 million endeavor is projected to be completed in 13 months and ready for occupancy by November 2008.

The largest unit at the current assisted living facility is 425 square feet. CEO Lisa Israel said in the 1990s that was state of the art.

“Today couples want to stay together and if one needs assisted living facilities the new larger suites will comfortably accommodate a couple. People who need assisted living want a comfortable homelike environment just like everyone else,” Israel said.

The new La Joya wing will provide upgraded living while also providing 24-hour staffing and care.

Israel said those who move into an assisted living environment are generally frail, want three prepared meals a day, need extra help with bathing, medication and daily care. The average age is 88.

“People are living longer in places that aren’t nursing homes. New assisted living facilities have pleasant social settings and are less clinical; couples can remain together.

“In the new wing staff will be in the building 24 hours and all nurses will have beepers on their waist. This is the new level of “person-centered care,” Israel said.

The suites at La Joya will be a critical part of the La Posada continuum. “We’ll be able to keep people as independent as possible and in a more manageable environment with more services and 24-hour staff.

“Since 1992 $12 million has been raised from residents for new facilities. “It’s the residents who make it happen,” Israel said.

Vice president of the La Posada Foundation Mark Dugan said the new dining room will feature exposed beams and be on a par with the dining rooms at La Vista and La Perla.

Ellen Sussman is a Green Valley freelance writer. Contact her at ellen2414@cox.net.