Care that
honors life
fully lived.
From its founding in honor of Isabella Uhl in 1875, to becoming one of New York’s most respected care institutions, Isabella has continually evolved — embracing innovation while preserving its commitment to dignity and compassion.
Experience Isabella
Discover a reimagined approach to senior living and rehabilitation in New York City — where history, innovation, and human connection meet.
Short-term rehabilitation and long-term skilled nursing designed around individualized recovery and person-centered care.
View All ServicesElegant residences offering independence, community, and wellness-driven living with a supportive environment.
View All ServicesInspired by global longevity principles, our programs prompte movement, purpose, connection, and vitality at every stage of life.
View All ServicesOur Legacy
Founded in 1875, Isabella was created with a vision of refuge, dignity, and protection for New York’s aging community. Today, the legacy continues — blending historic compassion with future-forward care in the heart of Washington Heights.

A Legacy of CompassionIn 1875, a German immigrant newspaper publisher named Oswald Ottendorfer did something remarkable. He created Isabella Heimath — a home where elderly New Yorkers without family could live with dignity. 150 years later, that spirit of compassionate care still drives everything we do. But now, we’re asking a bigger question: what if we could help people not just age well, but live longer, healthier, more purposeful lives?

The BridgeFor decades, senior care has been reactive — we’ve focused on what happens when health declines. At Isabella, we’re shifting to a proactive model. We’re integrating Blue Zones longevity principles. We’re creating spaces that feel like home, not hospitals. We’re honoring our history while building for the future. Through wars, depressions, pandemics, and profound social change, Isabella has remained a constant — evolving our care while staying true to our founding mission.

Reimagined for Modern LongevityNow we’re pioneering the integration of Blue Zones longevity science with traditional care. Blue Zones are the places on earth where people routinely live past 100 — with purpose, community, and vitality. We’re bringing those principles to the Upper West Side. This isn’t about being the biggest. It’s about being the most intentional. We’re on the Upper West Side — a neighborhood known for culture, intellect, and community. That’s exactly who we are.
Amenities
Thoughtfully designed spaces that nurture connection, reflection, culture, and community.
- On-Site Chapel
- Interfaith Services & Private Reflection Spaces
- Quiet Meditation Areas
- Community Center with Live Entertainment
- Guest Lectures & Cultural Programming
- Private Event & Celebration Spaces
- Dedicated Isabella History Room
- Curated Historical Archive & Timeline Wall
- Resident Storytelling & Heritage Displays
- Quiet Library & Reading Lounge
- Book Clubs & Literary Events
- Technology Corner for Digital Learning
















