Sunrise facilities look the same all over the country; the white buildings with brightly painted trim conjure up a homey feeling. But even with the corporate underpinnings, warm touches are apparent—every Sunrise facility has a house dog and cat, and at this location, the enclosed wraparound porch is furnished with pillow-laden rocking chairs. Inside, the tiny lobby is comfortable. The entire layout is immediately visible—from the community room where residents sit and chat to the main lounge and dining area. Furnishings tend toward the traditional and are comfortable and well maintained. Warm reds and blues dominate the color scheme.
Residents’ rooms are pleasant and cozy. Large windows expand the space visually. Many of the common areas have a dual purpose: during our visit, the bar and lounge area hosted a guest singer. Common areas tucked into the hallways hold their own unique appeal—they are used for reading, socializing and TV watching. Skylights flood halls with so much light that it almost feels like walking down the street—albeit with chairs, sofas and crafts on display! Caged birds chirped greetings as we passed. Patio and garden areas boast an array of plants and shrubs dotted between the many pathways. Plentiful seating and a barbecue make this a popular spot. The dietician-developed menu is marked by limited choices and few fresh foods; however, no salt is used in the preparation. Special desserts are formulated for diabetics, and light snacks are always available.
Daily activities include exercise, crafts, movies, puzzles, sports and mentally stimulating activities. Outings and religious services occur throughout the week. Lively, well-dressed residents from both assisted and independent living mingle with one another. The committed staff seems to augment the personable air. We were especially touched by our guide’s interactions with residents—she demonstrated an enormous amount of warmth and care. In fact, one resident who we later found out was receiving hospice care for her terminal illness, joined us—at our guide’s beckoning—as we surveyed an outdoor area. The resident was thrilled as the guide took her hand and led us around. If residents require nursing services (aside from ventilator care and tube feeding) or hospice care, Sunrise contracts with outside agencies so that patients may stay at the facility throughout the course of a terminal illness—instead of having to leave during a difficult transition period. Physical therapy sessions take place in the privacy of residents’ rooms.
