A tree-lined residential neighborhood harbors Chateau III of Pleasant Hill, a senior community that offers independent and assisted living as well as Alzheimer’s care. The roof slopes gently to reveal a covered driveway, where vines climb the large pillars supporting the entrance. The facility’s interior features modern, comfortable furnishings that are strategically placed to promote socialization. A signature aquarium cues visitors to the main lobby. Hanging artwork adorns the walls—the facility even has a gallery featuring the work of one resident, who is an artist.Assisted living residents enjoy elegant studios and one-bedroom apartments. Partitions separate the sitting rooms and bedrooms. All apartments have a patio or balcony; the sliding glass doors allow plentiful natural light. For a nominal fee, residents may opt for mirrored closet doors and a doorbell. The roomy apartments in the dementia unit comfortably accommodate two. Residents’ spacious bathrooms feature raised toilets and sinks, as well as sit-down showers with grab bars.Numerous windows throughout the facility supplement the soft artificial lighting. One of the wide hallways features an alcove with seating; known as the “listening area,” residents gather here to listen to the radio. Benches, too, line the hallways. A few residents sat here, people-watching, as others collected their mail or sauntered past the lobby on errands. The living room was abuzz with residents and family members catching up. A few relaxed in front of the big-screen TV, while others gathered in the dining room for soup and drinks. The menu offers an American selection with lots of alternatives, such as baked chicken or fish, deli sandwiches, garden burgers and baked potatoes.Chateau III boasts three comfortably furnished patios, two of which have raised potting gardens. We glimpsed several pots with bulbs peeking out of the dirt! Decorative birdfeeders, thriving plants, flowers and several varieties of palm and elm trees make the gardens especially attractive.The facility’s activity programs are well-planned. Highlights in assisted living include outings, shopping, playing cards, exercising and watching movies. Residents also run an onsite general store. The dementia unit program is predictable and structured (great for this population), with exercise games playing a big role. Large-print books in the living room are available to all. “Pitstop for Wheelchairs and Walkers,” another one of the scheduled activities, is an excellent option for those whose mobility aids could stand some oiling or adjustment.
