WHERE YOU CONNECT. WHERE YOU ENGAGE. WHERE YOU BELONG.
BENCHMARK
LIVING
Live Your Best Life
Discover Benchmark’s award-winning senior care and experiences at Benchmark at Scotch Plains.
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A NEW CHAPTER for a South Plainfield Neighbor
Savoring Flavor & Friendship All Day Long BenchMark FIN.indd 1
Inspiring Community Around Every Corner
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Introducing Benchmark at Scotch Plains
For nearly 30 years, Benchmark has set the standard for senior living in the Northeast with award-winning care and experiences built on meaningful connections. Our dedicated associates create lasting relationships that help keep residents connected and engaged. At Benchmark at Scotch Plains, a modern, maintenance-free lifestyle awaits, with thoughtfully designed amenities just minutes from shopping and local attractions.
AT SCOTCH PLAINS
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Visit or call 908.317.3387 for more information! 1814 Raritan Road | Scotch Plains BenchmarkAtScotchPlains.com
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13 4 A Message From Our Founder 6 A Message From Our Executive Director 8 About Benchmark at Scotch Plains Contemporary design, sought-after amenities, endless possibilities 12 Nearly 30 Years of Setting the Standard Being the benchmark for senior care 13 Opportunities to Stay Social Stay connected at Benchmark at Scotch Plains 16 Where All Ages Come Together Redefining what it means to live intergenerationally 17 Helping Seniors Live Life on Their Own Terms Getting to know Director of Community Relations Ally Stewart
19 The Northeast’s Leading Memory Care Provider Mind & Memory Care that’s designed to be better 20 Where Food Is More Than Just a Meal Good food, conversation and entertainment that strengthen bonds 22 Senior Care 101 Making the right move 24 Resident Spotlight: Finding Community Again Why one South Plainfield woman chose Benchmark at Scotch Plains 26 Fun Things to Do Benchmark at Scotch Plains is just minutes from activities for all ages
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Benchmark at Scotch Plains BEING THE BENCHMARK FOR SENIOR CARE The challenges of getting older are something that many of us are all too familiar with, especially those with aging parents. I founded Benchmark almost 30 years ago with the purpose of Transforming Lives Through Human Connection. Today, Benchmark is one of the Northeast’s leading senior living providers offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Mind & Memory Care, Respite Care and Continuing Care at 70 communities in nine states. Our associates are committed to not only providing an exceptional place for seniors to live but to helping them connect with what makes life so special, so they can truly feel at home. It’s our strong culture of caring that is my greatest pride and sets us apart
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from the competition. We’ve also earned consistently high marks from residents and families during annual surveys, as well as hundreds of local, regional and national awards, including 60 U.S. News & World Report Best Senior Living excellence awards in 2026 alone. Our dedicated associates strive to get to know every resident and accomplish their mission of keeping residents connected to the people, places and things that matter most to them at every stage of their lives. Our culture is one that is rooted in our core values: Called to Care, Be the Benchmark and Better Together. By consistently making residents feel extra special, our associates not only provide comfort to our residents but peace of mind to their families. Many residents, as well as family
members, who may have felt hesitant about moving into a senior living community, soon change their minds. Residents quickly become engaged and inspired in their new community and family members feel peace of mind. At our newest senior living community, Benchmark at Scotch Plains, we’re proud to expand our presence in New Jersey, bringing Benchmark’s award-winning care and meaningful experiences to even more families. As we continue to grow throughout the region, Scotch Plains joins our nationally recognized community in Roseland, along with our communities on Long Island and in Westchester County, extending our nearly 30-year tradition of exceptional senior living. Benchmark at Scotch Plains residents will have the opportunity to thrive with a wide variety of onsite amenities, fun and educational programs and events, delicious restaurant-style dining and personalized care provided by compassionate associates for those who need it either now or in the future. We are excited to meet our neighbors and hope you will stop by to learn more about us! —Tom Grape, founder, chairman & CEO, Benchmark Senior Living
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Benchmark at Scotch Plains:
A Home Away from Home MORE THAN JUST A PLACE Welcome to Benchmark Living magazine! This is a publication dedicated to exploring senior living options and providing information about Benchmark at Scotch Plains, the township’s first senior living community. Inside you will find stories to help you plan for the future and about the people who will make our community so special. Scheduled to open later this year, Benchmark at Scotch Plains will offer all the comforts of a charming home with best-in-class amenities indoors and out. Residents will have plenty of opportunity to participate in intergenerational programs with nearby schools as well as enjoy local shopping, dining, arts, entertainment and other recreational opportunities. But of course, we are much more than just a building. At Benchmark, we believe in the power of human connection to transform lives, and we cannot wait to bring our mission to even more New Jersey families. We will achieve this through interactive dining options and culinary events curated by our chefs, social programs focused on our residents’ overall health and vitality, access to nursing care and 24/7 personalized, needsbased support. Whether it’s savoring a seasonal, homemade meal served on the patio or in the elegant dining room, enjoying music and refreshments in the bistro during social hour or catching up on current events while receiving some pampering in the hair salon, our residents will enjoy being surrounded by friends. We’ll also bring the best of the area to our residents with trips to places like shopping destinations, restaurants, historic sites and parks. It is our mission to keep our residents connected to the people, places and things that matter most to them. We can’t wait to connect with you! —Stephen Nichols, executive director, Benchmark at Scotch Plains
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About Benchmark at Scotch Plains CONTEMPORARY DESIGN, SOUGHT-AFTER AMENITIES, ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
Benchmark at Scotch Plains is pleased to bring exceptional care and experiences to even more New Jersey families. Conveniently located just off Garden State Parkway Exit 135 near Ash Brook Golf Course, Union College and the Academy for Performing Arts, Benchmark at Scotch Plains will offer nearly 82,000 square feet of beautifully designed indoor and outdoor living space across three stories. Thoughtfully appointed gathering spaces will encourage residents to connect, pursue their interests and enjoy each day, while warm, contemporary interiors create an inviting atmosphere that feels like home for residents and visitors alike. The community will feature 86 maintenance-free apartments in a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans. Each residence will include modern finishes, adaptable bathrooms with built-in safety features and convenient kitchenettes, offering comfort, independence and peace of mind.
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ASSISTED LIVING AMENITIES Benchmark at Scotch Plains will welcome residents and visitors with a covered porte-cochère entrance, providing a comfortable arrival in every season. Inside, a warm and inviting lobby with concierge services and soaring high ceilings creates an immediate sense of openness, inviting residents and guests to discover the beautifully designed spaces, exceptional amenities and vibrant lifestyle that will define the community. Shared spaces will include an elegant dining room and bistro showcasing three chef-prepared meals served restaurant-style all day.
Outdoor dining on the patio featuring a grill and social hours on the terrace will also be available seasonally. Residents and their families will enjoy beautiful common spaces, including fireplaced living areas, a movie theater, club and recreation rooms showcasing daily programs and a library. Overall health and well-being can be addressed with amenities such as a hair salon and a wellness center with a gym and rehabilitation room. Outdoors, elevated terraces and a spacious patio with seating will serve as the location for a wide range of events from cookouts to concerts, as well as provide an ideal place to socialize or simply enjoy the fresh air. A walking path will also surround the community, offering additional fitness and recreational opportunities.
INTEREST-ORIENTED PROGRAMS One of the cornerstones of Benchmark is our award-winning experiences. Benchmark programming associates will get to know each resident through interviews and discovery sessions and provide experiences that nurture their passions, connections and enhance their quality of life.
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Residents will have the opportunity to participate in individualized and group programs addressing physical wellness, the creative arts, socialization and more. Exercise classes for strength and balance, interest-oriented clubs, intergenerational programs, trips to local attractions and educational lectures will all be available. RESIDENT SERVICES Benchmark at Scotch Plains will include many services that make retirement easy. The concierge team will assist with scheduling appointments and other daily needs, while the maintenance team will handle community upkeep. Weekly housekeeping, along with laundry and linen service, will be provided, allowing residents to spend more time enjoying what they love. Local scheduled transportation will be available for shopping, medical appointments and other outings, and every residence will be equipped with a 24-hour emergency response system for added peace of mind. PERSONALIZED CARE For those who require additional support now or in the future, Benchmark at Scotch Plains will provide nursing assistance and 24/7 personalized care. Help with
daily living activities, such as managing medication or bathing, will be provided by compassionate caregivers educated in safety, infection control and relationship-building. Upon moving in, each resident is assessed, and a personalized care plan is created for those who need it to help stay a step ahead of health changes and maximize independence. Care plans are created with their needs
in mind so they can continue doing some things on their own and maintain feelings of independence. In addition, Benchmark at Scotch Plains will offer residents access to supportive healthcare services provided on-site by external care providers to help them age well. Medical providers are available on-site for visits if desired, or residents’ choice of providers will also be welcome on-site*. BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS
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Benchmark at Scotch Plains Features & Amenities
Conveniently located just a few minutes from many shopping and dining options Contemporary, maintenance-free apartments with housekeeping included Many spacious indoor and outdoor common areas in which to relax and have fun All-day, restaurant-style dining offering healthy, chef-prepared meals Full social calendar designed around residents’ interests 24/7 personalized, needs-based support Wellness amenities like supportive healthcare services and classes Local, scheduled transportation for shopping and appointments
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The Benchmark Difference
Nearly 30 Years of Setting the Standard BEING THE BENCHMARK FOR SENIOR CARE In business, a benchmark measures performance against other companies considered the best in their industry. When Tom Grape founded Benchmark Senior Living, he intended to set the standard—Be the Benchmark—by which all other senior living providers should be measured. Almost 30 years later, Benchmark remains committed to Grape’s standards for excellence. Throughout his career, he’s worked tirelessly to ensure that Benchmark sets a high bar and to raise awareness for the entire industry, having promoted and crafted regulatory standards and government guidance for the benefit of all seniors and assisted living providers. As a founding board member and former chair of Argentum, the national assisted living association, Grape worked to establish much-needed standards for senior care and improve the aging experience for all. In 1994, along with Massachusetts Secretary of Health and Human Services and former Governor Charlie Baker, Grape was instrumental in wri-
ting the legislation for assisted living in Massachusetts. Such groundbreaking work was recognized in 2019 when Grape received the inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award from the Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (MassALA). He was also a founding board member of the Connecticut Assisted Living Association. Grape is a frequent speaker, panelist and author on topics related to development, workforce, programming and the importance of human connection in senior living. SUPPORTING THE TEAM Benchmark is equally committed to associates’ physical wellness, emotional health and professional growth. It’s created an inclusive work environment where everyone’s voice is heard. Benchmark was one of the first assisted living providers to establish programs for career growth, including the creation of Benchmark University, which offers personal and professional classes and training to
all associates. Benchmark is also a leader when it comes to supporting associates in need. The Benchmark One Company Fund, a senior living industry first, provides grants to associates facing unforeseen financial challenges. For many of these reasons, Benchmark has become an employer of choice throughout the Northeast. It is proud to have been certified as a “Great Place to Work in Aging Services” by the Great Place to Work Institute every year since it was first introduced in 2018, and to have earned a place on Fortune’s 2026 50 “Best Workplaces in Aging Services.” Additionally, the company has received the Boston Globe “Top Places to Work” honor for all 18 years the award has been given. As is often said, with wisdom comes great responsibility. Benchmark is proud to have nearly three decades of knowledge and experience caring for seniors, and it’s a responsibility that both the leadership of Benchmark and Benchmark at Scotch Plains associates take seriously.
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The Benchmark Difference
Endless Opportunities to Stay Social
STAY CONNECTED AT BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS With older adults becoming less social and more likely to live alone as they age, it’s no surprise feelings of loneliness often peak between one’s mid-50s and late 80s. According to a six-year review of data by the National Poll on Healthy Aging released in 2024, one in three older adults experiences loneliness and isolation. Social isolation can also be detrimental to health and well-being. Studies consistently show it is a serious public health issue linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances and increased mortality. Just as a well-balanced diet and exercise are essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, so too is staying connected as we age. Data suggests that communities like Benchmark at Scotch Plains can improve quality of life by being part of a socially rich environment. Benchmark communities are committed to helping residents build meaningful connections and combat social isolation through personalized programs that bring people together around shared interests, experiences and passions. When a new resident moves in, associates take the time to get to know them through one-onone conversations and discovery sessions that explore their life story, interests, hobbies and personal experiences. Those insights help associates intro-
duce residents to community programs they’ll enjoy while fostering connections with neighbors and associates who share similar backgrounds or interests. Whether it’s two residents who grew up in the same hometown, served in the military or share a lifelong hobby, these thoughtful introductions often lead to meaningful friendships. From spontaneous conversations to regularly scheduled gatherings, residents discover opportunities every day to connect, reminisce and build lasting relationships. For example, a shared interest in learning how to paint has led to a regular class and many resident art shows. At Benchmark at Scotch Plains, residents will have ample opportunities to connect with others through a full calendar of educational experiences, trips to favorite and new destinations, volunteer opportunities, health and wellness experiences, interest-oriented clubs and more. No matter how seniors choose to engage, Benchmark associates get to know each resident and encourage participation in many ways to ensure they take full advantage of everything offered. Unique stories and experiences are truly what tie everyone together. The Benchmark at Scotch Plains team looks forward to connecting and getting to know each story! BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS
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Where All Ages Come Together REDEFINING WHAT IT MEANS TO LIVE INTERGENERATIONALLY The idea of bringing many different generations together and interacting on a regular basis is one that often has enormous benefits for both younger and older people. In fact, in the U.S. and Europe, several cutting-edge intergenerational co-living communities have had tremendous impacts on the lives of both young and old. Older people enjoy sharing their experiences with and having companionship with younger generations. In turn, young people can learn valuable life lessons from older adults and often enjoy having more people around them who may take a genuine interest in their lives and well-being. Benchmark at Scotch Plains is committed to helping people of
all ages uncover what they have in common. With a location near several schools as well as carefully designed on-site amenities, features and programs, Benchmark aims to facilitate bonding moments among family members while fostering new relationships. From chef-led culinary experiences to movies and entertainment in dedicated gathering spaces, every detail of Benchmark at Scotch Plains has been thoughtfully designed to foster connection, engagement and enjoyment. The community will also be a welcoming place for families to gather, with private spaces available for birthdays, holidays and other
special celebrations, complete with catering from our culinary team. At other Benchmark communities, programs with schools and places of worship have been incredibly rewarding, bringing together everyone from toddlers through high school students and providing residents with a sense of purpose. Intergenerational offerings centered around holiday events, including Easter egg hunts, Halloween trickor-treating, the arts and more will be a regular part of our residents’ social calendar. Benchmark at Scotch Plains is excited to help continue to grow relationships between generations for years to come.
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The Benchmark Difference
Helping Seniors Live Life on Their Own Terms GETTING TO KNOW DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS ALLY STEWART
Ally Stewart of Basking Ridge began her career as a sociology student at Rutgers University before transitioning into medical device sales, including nearly a decade with Johnson & Johnson in Somerville. But it wasn’t until she discovered a career in senior living that she found her true calling. Faith, integrity, compassion and service are values that have always guided Stewart’s personal and professional life, making a career dedicated to helping families through one of life’s most challenging transitions a natural fit. “My faith is the foundation that keeps me grounded through life’s challenges and reminds me to approach every situation with humility, gratitude and purpose,” says Stewart. More than a decade ago, she began her career in senior living, earned her certification as a certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and hasn’t looked back since. “I have the privilege of serving families during some of the most important moments of their lives. That responsibility is something I take seriously, and it reinforces my commitment to leading with compassion and putting people first. At the end of the day, I want to be known not only for what I accomplished, but for the positive impact I had on the lives of others,” she says. Throughout her career, Stewart has helped open three new communities in Basking Ridge, Bridgewater and Warren for some of the area’s largest senior living providers. She is passionate about educating families about the benefits of proactive planning. Her approach emphasizes empowerment, financial preparedness and informed decision-making, helping families move from crisis-driven choices to thoughtful planning for the future. As director of community relations for Benchmark at Scotch Plains, Stewart has quickly become a familiar face in the community. Whether you stop by Benchmark at Scotch Plains or see her around town, be sure to say hello! BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS
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KEEP THE MEMORIES, LOSE THE STUFF
Space is Limited, Registration Required
Lecture & Brunch Featuring Celebrity Downsizing Expert Matt Paxton
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 14 | 10:00 AM THE ALBION SUMMIT HOTEL | 570 SPRINGFIELD AVENUE | SUMMIT Join bestselling author Matt Paxton and host of PBS’ Emmy-nominated Legacy List with Matt Paxton, for a delicious brunch and an entertaining, inspiring conversation about the upside of decluttering, downsizing and moving forward. Seniors thinking about a move, and those helping them make it happen, will enjoy Matt’s humorous and heartfelt approach to simplifying and letting go. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience, Matt will share personal stories, practical advice and simple strategies for making downsizing feel less daunting while preserving the belongings and memories that matter most.
WAYS TO RSVP: SCAN CALL 855.484.9600 EMAIL RSVP@BenchmarkQuality.com SPO NSO RED BY:
For nearly 30 years, Benchmark has set the standard for senior living in the Northeast, with award-winning care and experiences centered on meaningful connections.
AT SCOTCH PLAINS Opening Soon Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care
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The Benchmark Difference
The Northeast’s Leading Memory Care Provider MIND & MEMORY CARE THAT’S DESIGNED TO BE BETTER When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, family members are often confused about what steps to take and fearful about what lies ahead. There are many different types of dementia, and they affect each person differently. Caregivers often face challenges such as preventing wandering, ensuring proper nutrition and support, and keeping loved ones connected and engaged. Benchmark has been the Northeast’s leading memory care provider for nearly 30 years, addressing dementia challenges while facilitating strong connections that instill a sense of belonging and purpose. Comfortable, secure neighborhoods, individualized, roundthe-clock care and specialized programs are overseen by skilled associates trained to provide optimal experiences. Below are just some of the many ways Benchmark at Scotch Plains will continue to support families and loved ones living with dementia. SECURE & SPECIALIZED SETTING Benchmark at Scotch Plains’ secure memory care neighborhood is one in which residents will have access to ample common spaces, including living, recreation, dining areas and a hair salon. Outdoors, a spacious, enclosed courtyard will offer plenty of ways to have fun, dine or relax.
ENGAGING PROGRAMS
NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT
Residents and their families will also benefit from programs created around their interests and skills. Art, music, fitness classes, reminiscence programs and other brain-boosting activities address cognition as well as short- and long-term memory.
A sensory-stimulating environment with socialization, unique dining experiences and delicious smells from the kitchen will help get residents excited for mealtimes. Adaptive tableware and colorfully plated, healthy, homemade meals served restaurant-style are enjoyable and easy to eat. Support for special diets and additional nutrition services will also be available*.
24/7 CARE As dementia progresses, it’s common to need help with daily living. The Benchmark at Scotch Plains nursing and resident care teams will create personalized care plans for each resident and provide nursing care as well as 24/7 personalized daily living support for those who need it.
The Benchmark at Scotch Plains team comprises local experts who’ve helped many families impacted by dementia, and they look forward to working with families to create solutions. BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS
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The Benchmark Difference
Where Food is More Than Just a Meal GOOD FOOD, CONVERSATION & ENTERTAINMENT THAT STRENGTHEN BONDS
It goes without saying that food brings people together, and that couldn’t be truer than at Benchmark at Scotch Plains, where food will be more than just a meal. Rather than dining alone, residents will come together with their friends throughout the day to enjoy food, conversation and culinary entertainment that strengthen bonds. Keeping everyone connected through trying new things, nostalgic food memories and culinary experiences is what our dining services teams aim to provide. Each day, Benchmark at Scotch Plains’ talented team of chefs will take great pride in creating and showcasing daily seasonal specials and a set menu of meals and snacks offered indoors and out. Residents will savor meals prepared according to their tastes and served restaurant-style by associates who are committed to knowing what they enjoy. In addition, chef-led cooking demonstrations and classes inspire residents to try new dishes while deepening their enjoyment of cooking and food. Best of all, meals won’t be served on a set schedule—they’ll be served when it’s convenient for each individual. With allday dining, residents don’t have to change their lifestyle. Late risers, for example, will enjoy continuing to have breakfast at the time they’re accustomed to. Helping residents enjoy their favorite local restaurants or discover new ones will be part of our vibrant social calendar. Whether savoring pizza at the iconic Star Tavern in Orange or enjoying lunch at the Grain House Restaurant at the Olde Mill Inn in Basking Ridge surrounded by rich history or exploring the many outstanding dining destinations throughout Union County and beyond, the Benchmark team will make it easy for residents to experience the best of the region’s culinary scene. Food creates memories, and we look forward to helping our residents create many more!
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Senior Care
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MAKING THE RIGHT MOVE
With so many senior care options available, it can be difficult to determine the best one and the right time to make a move. Some focus more on quality of life, while others provide varying levels of care. Here are some things to consider in your search. INDEPENDENT LIVING Independent living in communities like Benchmark at Scotch Plains provides a relaxing environment for those who desire a social lifestyle without worrying about the maintenance or hassle of homeownership. Residents will have access to a range of amenities and services so they can focus on making connections, engaging in meaningful activities and enjoying their golden years. ASSISTED LIVING Seniors who need help with daily living activities, such as showering, grooming and managing medication, and other services should consider assisted living. For these residents, Benchmark at Scotch Plains encourages independence while offering residents greater support, such as 24/7 personalized assistance, enriching social programs and meals, along with the opportunity for long-term care. MEMORY CARE Memory care can meet the unique needs of those with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Programs like Benchmark’s Mind & Memory Care offer specially designed, secure environments with unique features that help those with memory impairment prosper. Caregivers who’ve received specialized training provide programs that address memory and cognitive skills as well as sensory dining experiences to support residents’ nutritional health. SKILLED NURSING Nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities are generally physician-prescribed, clinical environments for those with acute illnesses requiring complex, round-the-clock medical care. While Benchmark at Scotch Plains is not a skilled nursing facility, it will be possible for residents to receive skilled nursing services from external providers in the privacy of their apartment*. HOME HEALTHCARE Home healthcare agencies that employ caregivers, nurses or therapists can be an option for those needing short- or long-term assistance. Unlike Benchmark at Scotch Plains, home healthcare services are generally exclusive to physical care, often leaving families worrying about things like nutrition, social engagement and transportation to appointments. Communities like Benchmark at Scotch Plains have been uniquely designed to offer a range of senior living options and care to help meet individuals where they are or may be in the future. Whatever option is right for you or a loved one, look for experience and associate satisfaction as quality indicators.
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Resident Spotlight
Finding Community Again WHY ONE SOUTH PLAINFIELD WOMAN CHOSE BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS Throughout her entire life and for more than six decades, Dorothy “Dottie” Harding’s South Plainfield home was rarely quiet. Family gathered around the table. Friends stopped by unannounced. Her husband, Bob, devoted more than 50 years to the local fire department, coaching youth sports, serving as state and county fire association president and volunteering on countless committees. Married for 68 years, they built a life centered on faith, family, service and opening their home to others. “Our house was always full of people,” Dottie recalls. “It was full of life and love.” But after Bob passed away following a long and difficult journey with dementia, everything changed. “The loneliness is deafening,” she says. Like many older adults, Dottie—who grew up in Brooklyn before her family settled in South Plainfield as part of a large Italian Catholic home—wasn’t searching for someone to take care of her. She was searching for connection. Someone to have lunch with. A conversation over morning coffee. A card game. A movie. A reason to look forward to tomorrow.
“I’m looking forward to having someone to share the day with,” she says. “Whether it be a meal, conversation, game or watching a movie.” That’s what ultimately led the 92-year-old to reserve her future home at Benchmark at Scotch Plains. For Dottie, the decision wasn’t about giving up her independence—it was about preserving it. After caring for her husband for years and managing their home on her own, everyday responsibilities became increasingly difficult. Home maintenance, unexpected repairs and health complications following a fall on black ice were constant reminders that living alone was becoming more challenging. Yet what she missed most wasn’t help around the house. It was having people around her. “I don’t have as many friends as I used to,” she says. “It isn’t fun sitting in front of the TV while eating dinner. I’m so lonely I could scream some days.” For someone who has always found joy in being surrounded by others, that loss was profound. Dottie raised three children, spent nearly 30 years working in banking where she enjoyed helping customers every day, remains active in
her church and still hosts a monthly bereavement group called Tea & Sympathy, supporting others as they navigate grief. Now, she’s looking forward to a new chapter—one filled with friendship, conversation and opportunities to reconnect. “I’ve had a very good life and I can’t complain,” she says. “But I can’t live in the past anymore. I want to live in the moment and enjoy that moment.” She believes this next step is exactly where she’s meant to be. “God has always been very good to me,” Dottie says. “I think he’s leading me on the path to Benchmark at Scotch Plains.” Perhaps her favorite way of describing her decision is also the simplest. “I’m not moving to Benchmark because I have to,” she says. “I’m going because I want to.” For Dottie, Benchmark isn’t simply a new place to live. It’s an opportunity to begin again—to share meals instead of eating alone, to make new friends, to laugh, to belong and to once again be part of a community. Because sometimes the greatest gift isn’t just support for the future. It’s rediscovering the joy of living life together.
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Out & About
Fun Things To Do FROM LIVE PERFORMANCES AND CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS TO BEAUTIFULLY MANICURED GOLF COURSES, BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS IS JUST MINUTES FROM ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES. The beauty of New Jersey’s Gateway region is that it offers you the best of everything. From sprawling parks and lively museums to acclaimed theaters and premier shopping destinations, there’s always something to discover just minutes away. Spend the day exploring scenic green spaces or vibrant downtowns, enjoy live performances by local and nationally recognized artists, immerse yourself in the area’s rich history or savor exceptional
dining at restaurants worthy of best-of lists. Whether you’re planning a family outing or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon on your own, you’ll find countless ways to make the most of every day. Best of all, Benchmark at Scotch Plains makes it easy to experience the best of the region with a robust social calendar featuring trips to many of these local attractions—so you can simply enjoy the adventure without the hassle of planning.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Trailside Nature & Science Center, Mountainside Perfect for you and your young family members, this center features interactive exhibits, hands-on programs and live animals that delight visitors of all ages.
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Watchung Reservation Mountainside
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a day connected with nature, you’ll find plenty of options here. The largest nature reserve in Union County, this park spans more than 2,000 acres of forests, lakes and streams. Its inviting trail system offers routes for every ability level, from easy, scenic loops perfect for an afternoon walk to accessible paved paths designed for wheelchairs and mobility devices. Within the reservation is Lake Surprise, where you and your family can cast a line in search of largemouth bass.
Ponderosa Farm Park Scotch Plains
Here, you can watch your grandkids run around a modern playground and a motionactivated splash pad during summer months.
Ash Brook Golf Course Scotch Plains
If spending time outdoors means teeing off, this 18-hole course provides an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all skill levels. After your round, relax at the modern on-site tavern, which serves brunch, lunch and dinner in a welcoming setting.
Shady Rest Country Club Scotch Plains
For a shorter golf outing, try this spot. Established in 1920, this course features nine-holes to play as well as an 18-hole mini golf course complete with waterfalls, streams and picturesque landscaping, making it a wonderful destination for the family. It’s also a historic site, known for being the first African American country club in the U.S., and once hosting musical icons like Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington.
HISTORY & CULTURE Osborn Cannonball House Museum, Scotch Plains
Operated by the Historical Society of Scotch Plains and Fanwood, this museum offers you a glimpse into Revolutionary War-era life inside a home dating to 1750. You can admire original wide-plank floors, hand-hewn ceiling beams, the original kitchen and a collection of period artifacts.
Miller-Cory House Museum Westfield
Visit this museum for an even more immersive experience, as it brings the 18th century to life through costumed interpreters and demonstrations. Carefully restored and furnished to reflect daily life in colonial New Jersey, it offers you a vivid look at the people and traditions that shaped the region. Seasonal open-hearth cooking demonstrations are a highlight.
Drake House Museum Plainfield
Visit this museum and historical site (built in 1746) for artifacts from the Revolutionary War including a display of historic quilts, a Colonial-era kitchen and preserved documents from the time period.
Robinson Plantation House Clark
Built in 1690, this locale was once home to one of New Jersey’s earliest physicians. Today, it’s open for you to visit and learn about the state’s colonial history. BENCHMARK AT SCOTCH PLAINS
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SHOPPING Downtown Westfield
No visit to the area is complete without shopping. This quaint downtown is a quick drive away and home to boutiques, specialty shops, cafes and frequent live music performances.
Downtown Scotch Plains
Head to downtown Scotch Plains for home décor and clothing boutiques as well as charming florists and butchers, which offer the freshest and best for you to bring home. If you’re shopping on Saturdays during summer and fall, be sure to check out the annual Scotch Plains farmers’ market along Park Avenue. There, you’ll find Jersey Fresh produce, freshly baked goods and unique crafts and works by local artisans.
Downtown Cranford
Just five miles from Scotch Plains is this bustling hub with cute gift shops, general stores, jewelry and clothing retailers, collectible shops, spas, salons and more.
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ENTERTAINMENT Westfield Community Players Westfield This nonprofit performing arts company was founded in 1934. It stages five productions each season at its 150-seat theater, showcasing everything from beloved classics to contemporary favorites.
Union County Performing Arts Center, Rahway
Just 20 minutes away, this center in Rahway presents concerts spanning every genre, along with comedy performances, classic film screenings and special events.
CDC Theatre, Cranford
In nearby Cranford, CDC Theatre has been entertaining audiences for more than a century with an impressive lineup of plays and musicals. Its playhouse includes state-of-the-art lighting and accessible facilities for all patrons.
Cranford Theater, Cranford
Your love for movies will lead you to this theater, which regularly features independent films, classic cinema and special screenings alongside current releases.
duCret Center of Art, Plainfield Stop by this spot in Plainfield, which has classes in oil painting, ceramics, fiber arts and more for every experience level, as well as exhibitions highlighting local and regional talent.
New Jersey Festival Orchestra Westfield The classical music enthusiast inside of you will enjoy performances by this organization, celebrated for its exceptional concerts throughout the year. The orchestra was founded in 1983 and performs in nearby venues such as The Presbyterian Church and St. Helen’s Roman Catholic Church in Westfield.
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DINING OUT Restaurants
Local favorite Stage House Tavern in Scotch Plains serves elevated tavern classics alongside a lively schedule of live music, making it a popular gathering place for all tastes. For Italian cuisine with a contemporary touch, Grano Pizzeria & Italian Tavern, also in Scotch Plains, pairs timeless Mediterranean flavors with a warm, modern atmosphere. In Westfield, Sweet Waters Steak House delivers classic steakhouse charm, outstanding cuts of beef and expertly crafted cocktails, while Limani Seafood Grill specializes in impeccable seafood, from fresh oysters and lobster bisque to crab cakes and grilled swordfish.
Coffeehouses
When it’s time for a coffee break, Godwit Coffee in Scotch Plains is known for its expertly crafted beverages, including the popular iced wildflower honey latte. Outsiders Coffee Roasters (also in Scotch Plains) is a family-owned café with specialty brews, fresh pastries and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dessert Shops
For something sweet, Scotch Plains’ Scoops the Ice Creamery has all your favorite flavors plus varieties worth a taste (maple bacon or sugar cookie, anyone?). Farinolio in nearby Westfield offers an irresistible selection of artisan pastries, cakes and cookies that make the perfect ending to any outing.
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AT SCOTCH PLAINS
Opening Soon
1814 Raritan Road | Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 For more information, call 908.317.3387 or visit BenchmarkAtScotchPlains.com
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