Sunnyside Retirement Center shares common walls with two affiliated programs—one a transitional medical unit and the other a skilled nursing facility. The security system is also shared, but each component has its own separate entrance into the older, somewhat institutional building. The front sidewalk is lined with a small strip of grass, marked by miniature palm trees, bushes and plants. The neighborhood behind the property is residential. A large hospital is just a mile down the road.
In the lobby, we met a group of contented residents who were relaxing on pretty plum-colored sofas. Sunny, the friendly house dog, looked grateful for the attention he received. Delicate floral wallpaper helps mitigate the hospital-like appearance that remains from the building’s days as a rehab facility. The dining room features a unique aquarium and is furnished with tables for four; seating is assigned. All common rooms, including a billiard room and a living area with a big-screen TV and an organ, feature the same soft rose, blue and beige color scheme. Some of the shared resident rooms appear a bit cramped, but this depends on how many personal items are strewn about. Residents are allowed to bring their own microwave and small refrigerator. Just like in a hotel, housekeepers visit daily to refresh rooms. Staff members do laundry for residents, making life that much simpler. All rooms have crisp white walls and blue carpet; some have small patios or otherwise open to the central garden courtyard. This space isn’t just enjoyable for people, who often sit under the shade of a tree; winged friends often flock around several bird feeders.
We found staff members to be welcoming and kind. They greeted residents by name and took the time to engage them in conversation. Weekly scenic drives and shopping outings are highly anticipated sojourns. Current events discussions, art lessons, card and table games, exercise sessions, cooking projects, Spanish language classes and religious services draw enthusiastic crowds. The activity room doubles as a private dining room when family members come to visit. Transportation is provided within a ten-mile radius for appointments and personal errands.