Sarah Jane Sanford Home is a longstanding residence dedicated to women who wish to maintain their independence while enjoying the security and supportive environment of a communal setting. With a capacity for 40 residents, this historic home provides a unique blend of privacy and companionship. The minimum age for admittance is 65, and all residents must be ambulatory, ensuring an active and engaged community. Established in 1904, following several years of community planning and support, the home has faithfully served the needs of older women, was initially known as the Home for Elderly Women of Montgomery County, Inc., and opened its doors at its current location in the early twentieth century.
The residence is comprised of two distinct wings: The Century House and Sanford Hall. The Century House features 28 private rooms, each designed with special bathrooms to accommodate the needs of its residents. Sanford Hall offers an additional 12 private rooms, each equipped with a private bath. To ensure comfort and connectivity, wireless internet is available throughout Sanford Hall, and every room in the home is prepared for personal telephone service and cable television. All rooms and bathrooms come fitted with a call system to support residents in situations where immediate assistance may be necessary. Each resident is encouraged to furnish their private room with their personal belongings and treasured items, creating a sense of familiarity and home. While residents typically maintain their own rooms, staff are always on hand to provide assistance when needed.
The home is staffed around the clock, ensuring that personal assistance and emergency care are available at all times. A professional administrator oversees operations, and administrative staff remain available 24 hours a day to address residents’ needs. In addition to the private living spaces, the home offers two communal living rooms, inviting sitting areas on each floor, and three sunlit solariums, which create welcoming environments for relaxation and social interaction. Outdoor spacious porches provide additional gathering places for residents to enjoy the warmer months.
Dining at Sarah Jane Sanford Home is a pleasant and personalized experience. Each resident’s meal is plated and individually served in the bright dining room located in Sanford Hall, with dietary planning overseen by a registered dietician and meals served by the dietary staff. The home also offers a variety of engaging activities and programs throughout the year, organized by a dedicated Social Committee and staff. These activities include birthday celebrations, holiday parties, educational presentations, live music, and entertainment. Residents also enjoy excursions such as apple picking, scenic fall foliage rides, luncheons at local restaurants, and trips to the Festival of Trees.
Sarah Jane Sanford Home is enriched by its heritage, character, and sense of community. The original residence retains a Victorian charm, furnished with comfortable pieces and beautiful antiques. Fresh flowers and seasonal decorations throughout the home contribute to its warm and inviting atmosphere. In 2007, the home embarked on a significant expansion project, adding a modern new wing to the existing facility. This addition increased resident capacity and added amenities such as a new kitchen, dining room, large sitting room, laundry, staff offices, and a beauty shop, while preserving the gracious character of a private Victorian home.
Managed by the Board of Trustees and supported by an active Social Committee, the home continues a tradition of providing care and fostering a community spirit for the women who call it home. Over the years, Sarah Jane Sanford Home has remained committed to meeting the evolving needs of its residents while upholding its founding mission of comfortable, independent living in a supportive, friendly, and beautifully maintained setting.