Lon and Jackie Pinkowitz have lived extraordinary lives. Lon, born in Philadelphia, built a successful career as an international VP of sales and marketing for a billion-dollar Japanese company, traveling the world, experiencing diverse cultures, and savoring new cuisines. Jackie, born and raised in West New York, also excelled as a marketing professional in New York City and co-founded the Dementia Action Alliance (DAA), a national organization that connects people living with dementia and mild cognitive impairment to resources, friendships, and support.

Jackie’s passion for dementia care began when her mother was diagnosed with dementia years ago. Determined to find the best memory care community in the country, Lon and Jackie embarked on an exhaustive search, visiting countless assisted living communities across the United States. After careful research, the family chose a community in Michigan for Jackie’s mother. Years later, when it was time for her father to make a move, their search led them back to one clear choice — Monmouth Crossing.

In 2000, Jackie’s father became Monmouth Crossing’s third resident. “For us, it was the people who were running the place and how the staff engaged with residents,” Lon recalls. “It felt right. It felt like home. It is home.”

That sense of comfort and community stayed with Lon and Jackie. Years later, when it was time for them to consider assisted living for themselves, the decision was simple—Monmouth Crossing. When they arrived, the staff’s warm welcome confirmed they had made the right choice. “Four staff members immediately hugged Jackie and remembered her from when her father was a resident,” Lon shares. “It’s that kind of connection that makes Monmouth Crossing special.”

Advice for Families Considering Assisted Living

Lon understands the challenges families face when making this decision. “It’s a circumstance you find yourself in. You can fight against it, but until you recognize that it’s a necessary part of your life, you’ll be in conflict. No one gets out of this life alive, so enjoy the journey,” he says with wisdom and humor.

He urges families to look beyond appearances when choosing a community. “Many new communities are decorated to appeal to the children of residents, who may not know what really matters. Choosing based on how a place feels—not just how it looks—makes all the difference.”

Lon also addresses the common fears people have when moving to assisted living or memory care community. “Many people feel anxiety because they don’t know what to expect. They think their life is over—but it’s not. There’s still so much to live for.”

Life at Monmouth Crossing

When asked how their lives have changed since moving to Monmouth Crossing, Lon replies, “We’re living here as we always have—staying involved. Life doesn’t end at the end of the driveway. Things change, but life continues, and there’s joy to be found every day.”

Lon sums it up perfectly: “Everybody has to be someplace, and some places are better than others. Monmouth Crossing is that better place.”

Learn more about Monmouth Crossing and schedule a tour today.