Never Stop Being Playful: Ruth’s Story

When Ruth Rakosky moved to The Tamalpais Marin, she was not looking for a place to slow down.

She was looking for connection.

After exploring many senior living communities, nothing felt quite right. Then she visited The Tamalpais Marin. Friends who already lived in the life plan community spoke highly of it, and Ruth quickly understood why.

“I needed more connections,” Ruth said. “I saw lots of places, and I didn’t like lots of places until I came here.”

What she found was a community filled with interesting people, each bringing unique experiences, talents, and perspectives.

“What I enjoy is the difference in everybody,” Ruth said. “There are so many different people here that are interesting, that have done things that I’ve maybe never done before.”

For Ruth, learning from others remains one of life’s greatest joys. She loves hearing people’s stories, discovering new ideas, and finding inspiration in the creativity that surrounds her.

That spirit of curiosity extends to her own creative pursuits.

Known for crafting one-of-a-kind statement necklaces and jewelry pieces, Ruth sees creativity as an important part of staying engaged with life. Each piece reflects her playful personality and her belief that self-expression should never have an expiration date.

When she arrived at The Tamalpais Marin, she discovered something else: freedom.

“When I came here, I felt like there was a sense of freedom that I could just be whoever I wanted to be,” Ruth said.

What she chose to be was simple.

• Somebody who makes people laugh.
• Somebody who gathers people together.
• Somebody who brings joy to the moment.

“I like to make people laugh,” Ruth said. “I like to be around people, to make them laugh.”

That playful outlook shapes how she approaches getting older.

“As we age, a lot of things start falling apart,” Ruth explained. “So why not do something that’s wonderful and makes you feel happy?”

For Ruth, happiness comes from creating, connecting, and sharing life with others. Whether she’s making jewelry, learning from a neighbor, or bringing laughter to a gathering, she believes there is always something new to discover.

The opportunities available at The Tamalpais Marin continue to surprise her.

“I was blown away to see how much there is for all of us who live at The Tamalpais,” Ruth said. “It’s a special place.”

She especially appreciates the relationships she has built, not only with fellow residents but with team members throughout the community.

“I love the fact that the staff is connected to the people who live here,” she said. “They do it with grace.”

Today, Ruth continues to embrace each day with curiosity, creativity, and humor. She seeks out conversations, welcomes new friendships, and finds joy in bringing people together.

Because growing older doesn’t mean losing your sense of wonder.

For Ruth, it means Never Stop Being Playful.