Assisted Living Residence

The Macdonald Center Residence has been nationally recognized as one of the only assisted living facilities in the country 100% dedicated to those dependent on Medicaid (it is the only facility of its kind in the State of Oregon). In 2000, the Macdonald Center and Residence was awarded received the Excellence in Affordable Assisted Living award in the urban/suburban category, in a competition sponsored by the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA) and the National Cooperative Bank Development Corporation (NCBDC). As part of the competition, the Macdonald Residence project was additionally credited for its creativity and accomplishments in overcoming funding, physical program, and organizational challenges.

The Center and Assisted Living Residence is are located on an 11,000 square foot site at the corner of NW Sixth and Couch Streets in Portland, Oregon. Exterior building design compliments historic Old Town environment while performing as an attractive new social services center and handicap accessible, low- income facility where local residents age in place.

Macdonald Center provides community visiting services in low-income residential hotels, education in community and mental health, and research programs. Specializing in providing support to persons in the community with mental and other illnesses, the Center is situated on the street level of the building and has a large gathering area, two classrooms, workstations, and private offices.

The exterior steel facade and brickwork of this nationally award-winning facility are designed to replicate Old Town's late 19th century cast iron architecture and classical masonry. A peaceful and secure inner courtyard with therapy garden and balconies provides outdoor relaxation for residents, staff and volunteers.

Temperature zones in common areas and electric heating in individual units accommodate resident preferences and staff working environment. Lighting mixes incandescent and florescent to balance energy efficiency and residential effect. Acoustical tiling and carpeting are used throughout the building to minimize noise. Interior design is urban and welcoming; surfaces are designed to withstand wear and tear; colors and fabrics address a predominately male population.

Macdonald Residence in downtown Portland provides the best of both worlds: an urban residential setting and individualized services. Residents occupy 54 studio units, each with kitchenette and private bath with roll-in shower. Locations for socializing are provided throughout. the building. A commercial kitchen prepares three daily meals, served in attractive dining rooms. Caregivers are on duty 24 hours daily. Macdonald Center staff, volunteers, nursing faculty and students also help promote healthy lifestyles, activities and community governance among the residents.