Senior living with village vibes in the heart of Tacoma

By Seattle Times

Tucked into the lush landscape of North Tacoma, just steps from the iconic 700-acre Point Defiance Park, lies a charming senior living community. With Tudor-style cottages and buildings nestled among mature trees, flowering gardens and quiet walking paths, Franke Tobey Jones feels more like a quaint village than a retirement center.

Unlike many senior communities built in towering, hotel-like buildings, Franke Tobey Jones is spread across 20 beautifully landscaped acres, and this campus-like setting provides a serene, walkable environment where residents enjoy nature right outside their doors. Moments away from botanical gardens, hiking trails and panoramic views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, this community is intentionally designed to promote comfort, independence and an abiding connection to nature.  

Franke Tobey Jones’ scenic, historic charm is matched by its lively surroundings. Nearby, the Point Ruston waterfront offers shops, restaurants, galleries and miles of shoreline paths. Downtown Tacoma adds theaters, museums, Brewery Row and a growing wine scene. The Proctor District, just three miles away, brings farmers markets, cafés and boutiques — all contributing to a lifestyle that’s active, vibrant and uniquely Tacoma.

Franke Tobey Jones residents participate in a Wellness Walk. (Franke Tobey Jones)

Living well at every stage

Franke Tobey Jones is a true continuing care retirement community, meaning residents can transition smoothly from independent living to more care if needed — without leaving the community. This full continuum of care provides peace of mind for residents and families.

The community also prioritizes wellness through a hearty fitness program and its outstanding Senior University, which offers hundreds of engaging classes each year. Their Holistic Wellness program supports the mind, body and spirit with meaningful experiences that enrich daily life.

Whether it’s enjoying a concert, walking along Ruston Way, learning something new or relaxing with friends and pets (because companions come in all shapes and sizes), Franke Tobey Jones offers a lifestyle filled with beauty, connection and opportunity. It’s more than a place to live — it’s a place to thrive.

A legacy of service and stewardship

For more than 100 years, Franke Tobey Jones has been at the forefront of senior living, blending tradition with innovation in one of Tacoma’s most scenic and culturally rich neighborhoods. But what truly sets the organization apart isn’t just its legacy or top-tier ratings as one of the best continuing care retirement communities in Washington State and the nation — it’s the way it redefines what aging with dignity, independence and joy can look like.

Founded on a mission of service, Franke Tobey Jones operates as a not-for-profit — not a corporation. That distinction makes a meaningful difference in how the community is run. Revenues are reinvested into enhancing programs, staff development and resident experiences — not shareholders. Team members take great pride in their roles, often building lasting relationships with residents.

“With this mission-driven purpose, Franke Tobey Jones has built a reputation for exceptional living, compassionate care and a sense of community that feels more like a family than a facility,” says Director of Admissions and Residential Accommodations Michelle Olafson.

Franke Tobey Jones residents Eric and Donna Swenson bike the Point Defiance Park Owen Beach promenade. (Franke Tobey Jones)

Supporting the next generation of seniors

Franke Tobey Jones is growing to meet the needs of the next generation of active seniors. The community will add 59 luxury, independent living apartments to its already beautiful campus, along with exciting new amenities including dining venues, a bar and expanded wellness and fitness spaces. Plus, the views from the new residences will be absolutely beautiful. Construction is expected to commence in 2027 (plans subject to change).

For more information call Franke Tobey Jones at 253-752-6621 or click here.

Published in the Seattle Times August 10, 2025.