In keeping with the Korean custom of caring for one’s elders, one man has developed a senior living community meant to emulate the “silver towns” of South Korea.
Silver towns are unique to Korea, named for the gray-haired older adults who inhabit them.
“The demand for a community where Korean American elders feel welcomed and heard in the United States has gone unmet for quite some time,” said second-generation Korean American James Juhn, developer of Eben Silver Town in Atlanta. “Traditionally, it was normal for Korean seniors to live with their children; however, many seniors today do not want to impose on their children or prefer to live apart, so we’re proud to bridge the gap and bring this community to them.”
At Eben Silver Town, he said, older Korean Americans can live in community with those who share their language, food and activity preferences. The independent living community offers more than 100 suites in a four-story apartment building setting.
“The apartments are oversized compared to similar communities, and well-appointed,” according to the company.
Within the complex, common areas exist for residents to socialize and participate in wellness and fitness activities. There is also a library, chapel, salon, traditional outdoor Korean deck, Korean-speaking physical therapist, and formal and casual dining rooms. Outside, there is a Koi pond and multiple mugunghwa trees, also known as Rose of Sharon, which hold cultural significance for Koreans.
Knoxville, TN-based Solinity will manage the property.
“It is an honor to have the opportunity to create something unique and meaningful for the Korean American population in the Atlanta area and beyond through Eben Silver Town,” Josh Crisp, CEO of Solinity said. “It’s also very exciting to think about all of the community members who will be able to experience luxury living infused with a distinct Korean American culture.”
