Franke Tobey Jones in Tacoma, WA
Save5340 North Bristol Street, Tacoma, WA 98407
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Franke Tobey Jones is best suited for families seeking a high-quality continuing-care community in Tacoma that blends independent living options with ready access to memory care and skilled nursing on one campus. The appeal is strongest for active seniors who want a robust slate of programs - Senior University-style lectures, art and woodshop classes, fitness and wellness offerings - and a campus designed to feel like a well-staffed, small college town. The location beside Point Defiance Park, the range of housing from garden apartments and duplexes to larger cottages, and a polished, campus-like atmosphere make FTJ a compelling fit for those who value a vibrant, engaged lifestyle as they age, with the reassurance that care levels will follow them on campus if needs change.
Those weighing alternatives should consider affordability and long-term cost structure. Several reviews flag price sensitivity and potential escalation when moving to higher levels of care, sometimes with specific critiques about non-profit pricing models and the balance between services included in base rents and optional add-ons. Families on tight budgets or those who anticipate Medicaid as a primary funding source may want to compare options carefully, because there are accounts of significant increases in care costs and questions about what is and isn't covered. Additionally, a few voices raise concerns about leadership transitions and staffing continuity, which can influence consistency of care. For households prioritizing the absolute lowest monthly cost, or those needing very predictable, fixed pricing, alternatives may be worth evaluating.
The strongest element in FTJ's favor is the staff. Across assisted living, memory care, and independent living, the nurses, CNAs, activity teams, and concierge-facing staff are repeatedly described as compassionate, competent, and genuinely engaged with residents. This isn't generic hospitality; it's a workforce that residents and families feel understands individual needs, treats people with dignity, and functions as an extended family. That relational strength translates into meaningful daily interactions, thorough end-of-life care, and dependable responsiveness when concerns arise. The warmth of the staff is repeatedly cited as a differentiator that helps offset the sunbelt of costs and the emotional burden of aging in place.
Programming and campus resources reinforce the value proposition. The community's breadth matters: a well-equipped Wellness Center, multiple libraries, a woodshop, a gym with trainers, maintenance of gardens and grounds, and easy access to a "senior university" ecosystem of lectures and social clubs create an environment where residents can stay intellectually and socially active. The diversity of housing - independent cottages, garden apartments, and various floor plans in the newer independent living buildings - gives a flexible pathway for aging in place on the same campus. It is not merely a place to live; it's a full-service environment designed to sustain independence while offering safety nets that many families seek in their later years.
On the downside, the cost structure and perceptions of affordability cannot be ignored. Critics point to sharp increases in health-care-related costs and to mixed experiences with management's handling of price negotiations and service levels. A recurring caution is the potential disconnect between "not-for-profit" branding and the out-of-pocket realities of care escalation, especially for memory care or skilled nursing. Some reviews mention changes in staff composition, including reliance on temporary agency personnel, which can affect continuity of care. For prospective residents, these themes underline the importance of a careful financial plan, explicit contract language, and a frank conversation about long-range pricing, what is included, and what would trigger additional charges.
Overall, the pros - exceptional staff, a dynamic array of activities, a campus designed to support both social and intellectual engagement, and a seamless continuum of care - strongly offset the cons for many families. FTJ offers a meaningful sense of community, deep resident trust, and a lifestyle that prioritizes quality of life as aging advances. The not-for-profit ethos, paired with a spectacular location and a comprehensive care ecosystem on a single campus, creates a compelling case for those who are financially prepared for the ongoing cost of high-touch care and who want to minimize transitions as needs evolve.
For families considering FTJ, the practical advice is to tour with a specific plan: map out current needs, projected care trajectories, and a transparent budget that includes potential price escalations. Speak with several residents in different neighborhoods (independent living, assisted living, memory care) to understand day-to-day experiences. Inquire about staffing models, contract terms, and what is included in meal plans and activities. If affordability is a gating factor, compare with other CCRCs or non-profit communities that may offer different pricing structures or Medicaid-friendly options. When the fit is right, FTJ can deliver a rich, secure, and socially energized retirement with a built-in care continuum that supports families for years to come.
Located in Tacoma, WA, Franke Tobey Jones is an exceptional assisted living community offering a range of care options including Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Independent Living, and Memory Care. With a commitment to providing high-quality care and a vibrant living environment, this community offers comfort and support to its residents.
Franke Tobey Jones boasts an array of amenities to enhance the quality of life for its residents. From a beauty salon for pampering sessions to fully furnished accommodations, every aspect of daily living has been carefully considered. Residents can enjoy entertainment options such as cable or satellite TV, gaming rooms, and a small library. The community also provides convenient services like housekeeping, move-in coordination, community-operated transportation, and transportation arrangements.
The care services at Franke Tobey Jones are designed to meet the unique needs of each resident. With 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, residents receive the support they require while maintaining their independence. Medication management ensures that prescribed medications are administered properly, while special dietary restrictions are catered for through diabetes diets and meal preparation services.
Keeping residents engaged and active is a priority at Franke Tobey Jones. An extensive range of activities is available including fitness programs, scheduled daily activities, planned day trips, and resident-run activities. The community also offers concierge services to assist residents with any requests or needs they may have.
Additionally, Franke Tobey Jones benefits from its excellent location within Tacoma. With three cafes nearby and a variety of restaurants in close proximity, residents can easily explore local dining options when desired. Seven parks provide opportunities for leisurely strolls or picnics amidst nature. Access to pharmacies ensures that medication needs are readily met while numerous physicians nearby offer convenient healthcare services. Places of worship are also conveniently located for spiritual support. For cultural outings or entertainment experiences, theaters in the area provide ample choices.
In summary, Franke Tobey Jones in Tacoma, WA, is a thriving assisted living community offering comprehensive care services and a range of amenities. With a commitment to providing exceptional quality of life to its residents, this community ensures that each individual's needs are met while fostering independence and engagement.
Franke Tobey Jones is located at 5340 North Bristol Street, Tacoma, WA 98407 in Pierce County, Washington
Franke Tobey Jones's memory care services are designed to create a safe and supportive environment for residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, particularly through 24-hour supervision, which ensures constant monitoring and immediate assistance when needed. The assistance with activities of daily living--such as bathing, dressing, and transfers--promotes dignity while addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals at various stages of cognitive decline. Meal preparation and service cater to the nutritional needs of residents, fostering both physical health and social engagement during mealtime. Additionally, medication management helps ensure that residents receive their prescribed medications accurately and on time, reducing confusion and enhancing overall wellbeing in their day-to-day lives. Together, these features create a holistic approach to memory care that supports both independence and safety.
Franke Tobey Jones on seniors.fyi includes 27 photos including images showing interior, landscaping, architecture, building, decor, living room, windows, bedroom, and more.
A Thorough Discussion of Medications Potentially Linked to Dementia Risk
Dementia, influenced by aging and certain medications, may be exacerbated by drug classes such as anticholinergics, benzodiazepines, and antipsychotics, which are associated with cognitive impairment. Regular medication reviews by healthcare professionals are crucial for older adults to manage risks and optimize cognitive health.
Why Do Dementia Patients Sleep So Much? Understanding Oversleeping, Stages, and Care Approaches
Dementia often results in disrupted sleep patterns, leading to excessive daytime sleeping due to factors like brain damage affecting circadian rhythms, medication side effects, and lack of structure in daily activities. Caregivers must monitor these changes closely, as oversleeping can increase risks such as malnutrition or dehydration, and provide necessary support and routines to enhance patient engagement and well-being.
The transition from assisted living to skilled nursing care is often prompted by complex medical needs that assisted living cannot meet, with key indicators including frequent health declines, increased falls, severe memory issues, and caregiver burnout. Families should recognize these signs early to discuss options with healthcare providers and prepare for the emotional and logistical aspects of moving to a facility that offers comprehensive medical support.