Centenarians Thrive at Local Care Facility in Coachella Valley

According to the Pew Research Center, centenarians—those who reach the age of 100—make up just 0.03% of the U.S. population. But in the Coachella Valley, a growing number of seniors are defying those odds.

At Nana Nita’s Haven, a local residential care facility, centenarians aren’t just surviving—they’re living with joy, creativity, and purpose.

Just this week, Jeanette Burks celebrated her 100th birthday, surrounded by loved ones and fellow residents. “I think it feels just about the same,” she said with a smile. “Except you’re kind of amazed that you made it.”

Jeanette has only lived at the care facility for five months, but she’s already left her mark. A former artist, her watercolor and pen-and-ink pieces now decorate her room, a reminder of a vibrant creative life.

Facility owner Nita Jurata says there’s no magic formula to longevity. “Our clients eat regular diets, everything in moderation—with a side of something sweet now and then.”

Joining Jeanette in the centenarian club is Frances Rothluber, who is 103. Frances credits her long life to a life of purpose, including her years as a teacher, meditation leader, and poet.

“I keep feeling I’m here for a reason,” she said. “And part of that reason is to help people understand that we aren’t finished evolving.”

Frances still reads and writes poetry daily, holding fast to her belief in growth at every age.

And the celebration isn’t over—another resident at Nana Nita’s Haven is set to turn 100 in July, adding to the facility’s inspiring list of centenarians.

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