Lush greenery and vibrant flowers dot the grounds of Belmont Village of Encino. The property boasts nine different courtyard areas and a beautiful rooftop patio. Well-kept patio furniture creates a sanctuary above the city commotion—the perfect spot for soaking up the sun. Ivy climbs the exterior, parting alongside multiple balconies. A courteous receptionist greets guests in the lobby, furnished with antique wood tables and upholstered wooden chairs. Floral cushioned armchairs, artificial potted trees, a grandfather clock and a fireplace enhance the décor. When we arrived, jazz played softly. Two residents looked peaceful reading newspapers. The restaurant-style dining room, called Josephine’s Kitchen, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu offers many choices, such as filet mignon and grilled salmon, in addition to the chef’s special. The bistro opens when the dining room closes and serves coffee, tea and snacks.
Residents have many choices for recreation. The Center for Life Enhancement, with hardwood floors and wall-sized mirrors, is well equipped for exercise. A physical therapist designs individual fitness regimes upon request. The Memory Enhancement Program takes place in a classroom decorated with flags and maps. We saw a staff member assisting a resident in the classroom’s computer center. The charming beauty salon, awash in pink, looks like something out of an old movie. Bridge and canasta often take place in the card parlor. Other activities include watching movies, making jewelry and crafts, participating in music appreciation, taking art classes, enjoying live entertainment and going on outings.
The facility houses both independent and assisted living residents, and is licensed to accommodate twenty-nine individuals with dementia. The spacious apartment we saw overlooks a verdant courtyard, maintained through a resident gardening program. The kitchenette contains a microwave. The walk-in closet lined with multiple racks would make any clotheshorse envious. Residents have individual locked mailboxes. Although we weren’t able to visit the secured dementia unit, we learned all about its “person-centered” approach to treatment. Long-term staff members tailor individual research-based programs for each resident, keeping daily activities structured. Family members play an important role in formulating plans. Staffers, available around the clock, receive thorough training at the on-site Center for Learning. Focuses include support skills, sensitivity training and communication techniques. Belmont Village has a well-staffed nursing department; registered nurses and licensed vocational nurses are available twenty-four hours a day, every day of the week. A psychologist, a podiatrist, an audiologist and a banking assistant visit periodically. It was endearing to observe staff members and residents interacting like friends.
