Life At Esplanade: A Community Of Care And Connection

By: Rochelle Maruch Miller

At Esplanade of Woodmere, a kosher memory-care community, life is measured in moments: a familiar melody that stirs memories, a lively round of bingo, a story shared across the dinner table. These everyday experiences give rhythm and warmth to the community, making it feel less like a facility and more like a true home.

For Adele, who turned 101 this year, it means returning to her lifelong passion for Shakespeare. She still recounts the thrill of seeing Paul Robeson on Broadway in “Othello,” sharing her love of literature with anyone who will listen. For Annette, it means finding comfort and friendship after the challenges of home care. Now, she takes part in daily activities and enjoys visits from family, giving her loved ones peace of mind that their mother and grandmother is safe and supported.

“It’s never just about care,” said David Scharf, co-owner of the Esplanade, a third-generation member of the Scharf family. “For us, it’s about dignity and honoring each person’s life story. Our residents come here with decades of experiences, wisdom, and memories. We see it as our responsibility to value those contributions and create an environment where they continue to feel respected and loved.”

That philosophy shapes the Esplanade’s Montessori Moments in Time program, which shapes activities to each resident’s interests, routines, and passions. Staff members learn not only medical needs of each resident, but also the small details that are important to them: a favorite food, a beloved hobby, a morning ritual. These insights spark connections that reduce anxiety and build trust.

Families often describe Esplanade as a place where kindness feels genuine. Staff greet residents by name, pause to share a laugh, or simply sit and listen. These moments, small as they seem, create a sense of belonging that residents and families deeply appreciate.

One daughter put it this way: “From early mornings to late nights, the staff are always there for our mother. What stood out wasn’t just their skill, but their patience and warmth. It gave us peace of mind knowing she was never alone.”

For Scharf, these stories reflect his own calling. “One of the most meaningful parts of my work is offering menuchas hanefesh, peace of mind, to families,” he said. “When adult children know their parents are cared for with kindness and dignity, they can breathe easier. That’s what keeps me motivated every day.”

Hindel Jesselson, Executive Director of Esplanade, sees those same values play out in daily life. “My favorite moments are the little ones,” she said. “Stopping by a room and hearing music, or seeing a group of residents getting competitive at trivia, these are the kinds of things that remind me how important community is. Our residents could be home alone; instead, they are here laughing, socializing, and being part of something bigger.”

You can’t take a one-size-fits-all approach with dementia care,” Jesselson added. “We meet residents where they are emotionally and physically. Sometimes that means joining them in their reality rather than asking them to return to ours. That kind of empathy changes everything.”

She added, “It’s a very vulnerable time in people’s lives, and they deserve their dignity and respect. That’s what drives us. We don’t just provide care, we create quality of life, every single day.”

Meals, too, become part of the rhythm of community life. With kosher menus thoughtfully prepared by the culinary team, dining is as much about conversation and camaraderie as it is about nutrition. The shared tables, bustling with chatter, foster the same kind of comfort one might find at a family Shabbos meal.

For those unsure if community life is the right fit, Esplanade offers Respite Stays, short-term stays where new residents can join in daily activities, share meals, and experience the support of staff. Families often find that what began as a “trial run” turns into a deeper connection. Residents enjoy being welcomed into the flow of community life while caregivers appreciate the chance to rest knowing their loved one is safe and cared for.

At its core, Esplanade of Woodmere is not defined by amenities or accolades, but by people: the residents who bring stories and spirit, the families who entrust their loved ones, and the staff who view their work as more than a job.

The Esplanade is more than just an address, it’s a home. Their goal is to make sure every resident feels that sense of home every single day. 

Rochelle Maruch Miller is a contributing editor for the Five Towns Jewish Times. She is a journalist, creative media strategist, lecturer, educator, and writes for magazines, newspapers, websites, and private clients. She welcomes your comments at [email protected]. Read more of Rochelle Maruch Miller’s articles at 5TJT.com.