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The Ackerly aims to please discerning seniors
By Mary D. Edwards

Cedar Millers looking to spend their golden years with many of their neighbors will feel right at home at the Ackerly. Some 75% of the 144 residents traded their home in the 97229 ZIP Code for an apartment in the new senior community in Timberland.

Nenita Perlas is one. She moved into her two-bedroom apartment recently after selling her Oak Hills home of 45 years. She likes the folks she’s met, the food that’s served, and the wealth of things to do. “There are lots of activities here,” she says. “You don’t get bored as long as you participate.” Nenita, who divulges her age as “old enough to live here,” takes advantage of the on-site gym to exercise every morning, and she plays Bingo on occasion. She also appreciates the Ackerly’s proximity to her church, St. Pius X, which she drives to in her own car.

Location was also a big draw for Dick and Lonni McLafferty who moved from Portland and have a house in Cannon Beach. They brought their 18-year-old poodle Jet, who is one of 26 dogs of all sizes and ages at the Ackerly. Dogs must pass a personality test to be allowed. The dogs out the morning I visited were well-behaved, quiet, and at least a couple were dressed up for Halloween. Residents may keep cats too.

The Ackerly at Timberland is part of Leisure Care, a Seattle-based company that owns, manages and consults in all facets of senior living. In addition to the Ackerly, the company has three other facilities in Oregon (Canfield Place in Beaverton, Markham House and Russellville Park in Portland), and facilities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Utah, and Washington.

Resident Lee and his dog Pepper

Not all Leisure Care facilities provide what’s called “a continuum of care services.” But the Ackerly does. That means housing and services are based on residents’ needs – from those who want maximum independence (but maid service and restaurant-style meals) to staff care in assisted living, and memory care. Prices range from $2,895 to $5,995 for a studio, 1-bedroom is $3,295 to $3,995; 2-bedroom $4,595 to $4,995.

Staff is available 24-hours a day at the front desk and in the licensed (assisted and memory care) areas. A physical therapist and occupational therapist and hair salon for men and women are also onsite. A dentist, podiatrist, nurse practitioner, and fitness instructor make regular visits. 

Betsy and Dickson Pratt, who moved in in June, praised the all-inclusive meal plan that’s part of their rent. The Pratts and their children looked at a few other area senior facilities before choosing the Ackerly, which they liked for its newness and “instant rooms.” Because the facility has been open only since Sept. 1, 2016, there was no waiting period to move in.

Betsy, 93, is on the hospitality committee that welcomes new residents, belongs to crochet and genealogy clubs, and takes part in morning stretching and balance classes. “I love the maid service,” she says, adding the only downside is the lack of swimming pool.

Residents who want to swim or take water exercise classes can take a twice-weekly bus trip to Harman Swim Center in Beaverton. “And we’ll increase that frequency if residents want it,” says Katie Smith, Ackerly sales manager.

From its full activity schedule (scrabble, movies, clubs, exercise classes, to name a few) to its feline and canine residents that were more than tolerated by all, the Ackerly and its staff seem intent on catering to residents’ wishes. “We love it here,” says Marlene Grant. “They leave you alone when you want, but you can get as involved as you want too.”

Tours are available seven days a week. For more information, visit leisurecare.com/our-communities/ackerly-timberland.

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