Sunrise of Studio City

Sunrise of Studio City sits amid office and apartment buildings on a busy urban street, minutes from a major freeway. Prior to being remodeled into an assisted living facility, the building contained luxury apartments. Stepping onto the property, we immediately felt submerged in serenity. Flowers and plants dot the colorful front porch, where benches allow for easeful unwinding and people-watching. Sculptures punctuate a small, beautifully landscaped garden, which also contains comfortable patio furniture. The interior is pristine and homey. Oak furniture and cloud-soft chairs in the reception area are luxurious. A corner fireplace emphasizes the elegant décor. Display cases showcase resident artwork on every floor. Walking the halls offers a wonderful glimpse into each resident’s history, as memory boxes full of personal photographs hang on every door. Resident apartments are huge and drenched with sun from large windows. Residents appear happy and full of life, and pleasant staff members are eager to assist with any tasks. A staff training session was being conducted at the time of our visit.

We also made it in time to observe lunch in the spacious, restaurant-style dining room. The day’s entrées are displayed on a platter at the main entrance. Cloth-covered tables, some with fresh flower arrangements, seat four. Residents smiled and chatted, enjoying prime rib and mahimahi with vegetables, soup and dessert to soft music playing in the background. Snacks and a variety of beverages are available around the clock. Each of four floors has its own activity room, equipped with comfortable chairs or couches, TVs and various games. One of the rooms features a billiard table. Arts and crafts and flower-arranging are two of the creative activities offered. Physical fitness programming includes tai chi classes, which stretch both the mind and body. In addition to attending any of the religious activities held on-site, including Saturday Jewish services, residents also take advantage of free transportation to local places of worship. Wine and cheese socials occur frequently, as well as happy hours and scheduled outings to movies and museums.

The secure Reminiscence Neighborhood for residents with dementia has its own dining room and activity space. The “calm room,” with comfy couches, soft toys and a projector that casts soothing images onto the wall contribute to the tranquil environment. Sounds of chirping birds emanate from a radio here. Staff members encourage relaxing in this room when residents become agitated.