Arriving at Sunrise of Playa Vista is a treat. The imposing six-story facility sits in a new urban development that was years in the making. In fact, there’s still some construction work being done. The pink stucco facility has a tiled roof, and is located on the corner of a busy street on its own block. Flowers blossom from well-manicured lawns all over the grounds, where palm trees, bushes and plants look fresh and vibrant. Even the parking lot houses some scattered young trees. Lighted walkways are perfect for evening strolls. There are several gardens, cultivated by residents’ green thumbs, and porches with umbrella-topped tables and seating. With a public bus stop right on the corner, exploring the city is just a ride away.
The front entrance leads into a plant-filled vestibule with a three-season porch and a separate smoking parlor. A two-story atrium with polished wood floors and gold wallpaper serves as the upscale lobby. The décor reflects a refined taste, incorporating classic pieces, such as a grandfather clock and paintings of Victorian couples at leisure. An adjacent parlor features a big-screen TV, piano, fireplace and comfortable furniture. Residents have plenty of common rooms to choose from, such as a lounge with ample seating, a theater room for watching movies, and a twenty-four hour bistro. A jukebox and a popcorn machine add to the flavor of this social area.
The restaurant-style dining room overlooks the gardens. White lace overlays look delicate against green tablecloths. Pink cloth napkins and fresh floral arrangements are elegant. A professional chef cooks mostly American cuisine, offering at least two entrée choices at each meal. Afternoon socials offer delectables such as finger sandwiches, cheese and crackers, and veggies.
Resident studios, suites and one-bedroom apartments come in a variety of floor plans. All units have wall-to-wall carpet and are wired for the Internet. Double-paned windows block outside noise. Rooms on the top two floors have balconies, some with stellar ocean views. The secure Reminiscence Neighborhood houses residents with dementia, while the unlocked Terrace Club provides a structured environment for people in the early stages of memory loss. Both areas have their own sunrooms, activity rooms, family-style dining rooms and kitchens decorated with tactile artwork. Resident rooms in these units are equipped with motion-sensor lighting. The Snoezelen room offers a multisensory experience. Individually tailored activity schedules include gardening, life skills activities, exercise sessions and daily outings. Sometimes the entire community comes together for activities, including religious services, art classes, exercise sessions and games. Clubs exist for walking, reading, writing and drama. Dinner and golf trips are just a sampling of the structured outings that this facility offers.
