The Devon Senior Living

Recently purchased by Sunrise Senior Living, NewSeasons at Devon is located in a suburban Philadelphia neighborhood with lots of winding side streets. A handful of outdoor areas offer residents a chance to enjoy manicured lawns, flower gardens, a wooded area with a walking path, a covered front porch and a garden patio. Two disparate buildings intersect one another to create the campus: a stone church and rectory, circa 1860, and a 1980s-era stucco addition. The lobby connects the two structures. Cranberry and gold floral carpet paves the way for antique furnishings and upholstered sofas and chairs. On our tour, several residents relaxed and chatted in this area.

All apartments are exceptionally large with multiple windows. No two units are alike as some have angled ceilings and odd little nooks that add charm. The older building has the original chapel with exposed wood beams and trim, fireplace and original stained glass; the chapel is used for both worship services and secular gatherings. Wicker furnishings and hardwood floors are the perfect backdrop for the sunroom. A fireplace and piano create a warm living room. The craft room and country kitchen keep residents busy with beauty in both form and food. The dining room is formal with bold flowered wallpaper, dark wood furnishings and cranberry-hued table settings. The fifties-era ice cream parlor features black-and-white checkered décor as well as a real jukebox. Afternoon tea is a delight, with tiny sandwiches or sweets also making a debut. Wednesday social hours are highlighted by wine or beer along with fruits and cheeses. Monday nights are for movie-watching complemented by popcorn and cold drinks. Monthly theme menus such as Cruising the Caribbean ensure residents sail to new culinary horizons.

Residents and family get-togethers are encouraged and include a monthly brunch. Crafts, games and puzzles keep hands as busy as the cooking and baking courses. Regularly scheduled shopping trips are popular. Health is addressed in exercise classes, massages and a walking club. Religious programs and services speak to residents’ spiritual needs. Residents and staff seem to have a good rapport. NewSeasons at Devon has a program called Dreams for All Seasons, wherein chosen residents have a special wish granted. Recently, an eight-nine-year-old resident had her wish fulfilled when she took a hot air balloon ride with two friends!