Meridian at Ocean Villa – CLOSED

You couldn’t ask for a better location than that of Ocean Villa. Facing Palisades Park, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean, the facility is nestled away in a lovely, quiet neighborhood in Santa Monica. Gorgeous homes and mature, majestic palms line the streets. White rosebushes soften the edges of the concrete walk, set amid alyssum and geraniums. The sand-colored building with its rust-colored awning looks at home in this seaside community. Wrought-iron tables and chairs and market umbrellas on the outdoor patio create a fanciful backdrop for watching unobstructed sunsets. Glass doors lead to a large common room subtly divided into two spaces. To the right is the lounge with a big-screen TV and comfortable seating. The fireplace was crackling at the time of our visit; several residents relaxed and enjoyed a TV program. To the left is the dining room—white tablecloths cover tables seating four to six. Both rooms have large glass windows overlooking the ocean. The small meeting room is perfect for private family visits, with its pretty décor and seating and breathtaking ocean view.

The interior is homey and elegant. Floral carpet covers the floors, and ivory paint spruces up the walls. Silk flower arrangements make appearances throughout. Resident rooms are carpeted in a soft pink, and contain a wooden chest of drawers and a comfortable easy chair. Twin beds are swathed in floral linens. Sparklingly clean bathrooms boast pedestal sinks and built-in cabinets. Residents are welcome to bring their own furnishings.

Most residents at Ocean Villa are frail elderly. As such, these residents enjoy a nice mix of indoor activities like bingo, exercise, aromatherapy, current events discussions, arts and crafts and live entertainment. Picnics in Palisades Park are popular, though this is one of the few outings. The food, we were told, is very good, and the chefs make the effort to create menus that are appealing to the residents. Three meals are served daily with snacks and alternatives always on offer.