Gurwin Healthcare System’s President and CEO, Stuart B. Almer, FACHE, recently joined award-winning journalist Gianna Volpe on NPR’s Heart of the East End to discuss the evolution of senior care on Long Island.
Broadcasting on Long Island’s only local NPR radio station, 88.3 WLIW-FM, the conversation offered listeners an inside look at how Gurwin is transforming the senior living experience through comprehensive, all-inclusive care options.
Key Takeaways from the Interview
The Evolution of Gurwin Healthcare System
What began as a 300-bed nursing home in the mid-to-late 1980s has grown into a full continuum of care spanning 36 beautiful acres in Commack. Today, Gurwin offers everything from independent living at Fountaingate Gardens to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services—all on one campus.
“We’re large enough in scope and diversity that we have services that others can’t fully provide,” Almer explained. “The fact that we have had a history, a strong history in healthcare, sets us apart from others.”
Understanding the Life Plan Community Model
Fountaingate Gardens operates as a life plan community—a model that’s not yet as common in New York but offers significant advantages for residents. Here’s how it works:
- Upfront Investment: Residents pay an entry fee plus monthly maintenance fee
- All-Inclusive Coverage: The entry fee covers your Long Island senior apartment plus access to higher levels of care if ever needed
- Security and Peace of Mind: If you or your spouse need assisted living or skilled nursing care, you don’t lose your apartment or pay additional fees
- Return on Investment: Upon leaving, residents can reclaim up to 80% of their original investment, which can be bequeathed to family members
“It’s almost the same as if you’re buying a home,” Almer noted. “You have the safety net of those services available to you at no additional cost other than the cost of the life plan initially.”
What's Included: More Than You Might Think
When doing a side-by-side comparison, many people are surprised to discover that Fountaingate Gardens is more affordable than they expected. The monthly fees include:
- All meals in the beautiful dining room
- Parking space
- Full gym access with a personal trainer
- Property taxes and utilities
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Access to all campus amenities
“When folks do the side-by-side comparison and realize it’s truly all inclusive, they usually find it to be affordable,” Almer shared.
Amenities That Stand Out
Fountaingate Gardens opened just three years ago with modern amenities designed to promote wellness and community:
Outdoor Features:
- Pickleball and bocce courts
- Community gardens managed by residents
- Streams and fountains with a geyser feature
- Two putting greens
- A dedicated dog park (yes, pets are welcome!)
Indoor Amenities:
- Large, heated saltwater pool
- Modern fitness center with a full-time personal trainer
- On-site outpatient rehabilitation services
- In-house pharmacy
- Art room and library
- Regular educational lectures from local specialists
Who Calls Fountaingate Home?
The resident community reflects Long Island’s educated, engaged population. Approximately 60% are former schoolteachers, with many engineers and other professionals among the membership.
“These are very well-educated individuals,” Almer said. “They enjoy the educational programming that we have,” including museum trips to the Frick Collection and MoMA, local theater productions, and cultural events at the nearby Suffolk Y.
But what residents value most? Socialization. The dining experience and community programming top the list of what makes Fountaingate special.
The Importance of Planning Ahead
One of Almer’s key messages resonated throughout the interview: don’t wait until you’re in crisis to plan for your future.
“Very often we typically don’t plan for our futures or only plan when we’re in a crisis. My guidance to anyone is to really do your homework, plan for the future, plan when you’re not under duress. It makes it much easier to transition.”
Watch the Full Interview
Experience Fountaingate Gardens for Yourself
Interested in learning more about life plan communities and whether Fountaingate Gardens might be right for you or a loved one?
We offer complimentary trial stays so you can experience the community firsthand. Spend a weekend with us, meet current members, and see for yourself what makes Fountaingate Gardens special. Contact us to schedule your personal tour.
