Imagine yourself taking a hike. You walk up a dirt trail until you reach a magical moment when the clouds part and suddenly you find yourself looking down upon an breathtaking view. Do you know where you are? You wouldn't believe it but you are at Grizzly Peak, just 20 minutes outside of Oakland, California. You are not in a concrete jungle, like the stereotype might suggest about Oakland, but rather in nature, overlooking a gorgeous view of The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Berkley.

If you are senior citizen looking to live in a great American city then perhaps Oakland is right for you. Above is just one example how retirees can find enjoyment in this west-coast port city. From casually strolling around Jack London Square, to attending Golden State Warriors basketball games at Oracle Arena, to exploring art and history at Oakland Museum of California, there is a plethora of activities and entertainment to keep any retiree bustling with engagement. Furthermore, Oakland is situated in perhaps the most intriguing place in America, The Bay Area, which adds to the list of ongoing activities. Take quick train ride (on the BART) or a ferry ride west to San Francisco and experience shopping and some the best restaurants in the world. Hop on a bicycle and peddle through the streets of Oakland until you arrive at one of the best universities in the nation - The University of California at Berkley. Looking to escape for a romantic weekend? Just an hour north is Napa County, a popular vacation destination known for fantastic vineyards, gorgeous rolling hills, and five-star restaurants.

Enabling senior citizens to experience all the wonderful things that Oakland has to offer is the ability to stay healthy and independent. Geriatric care is one of the fastest growing industries in America, and this is no different in the Bay Area. Medical establishments such Alameda Health System and Alta Bates Summit Medical Center have exceptional care providers from cardiologists and orthopedic surgeons, to urologist and ophthalmologists. In addition, Oakland has numerous senior living options to choose from, including independent living homes, assisted living communities, and skilled nursing facilities. For those seniors in Alameda County who own their home and would prefer to stay in it for as long as possible, there are exceptional non-medical home care providers, as well as medical (or skilled) home health agencies.