Tan bricks add texture to the façade of Sunrise Assisted Living of Walnut Creek, an upscale cream-colored facility ornamented with vibrant blooms and clinging vines. Ceilings soar above the sunny main room, where fresh flowers add vivid color. A large dog snoozed beside the classic brick fireplace during our visit. Soothing music underscored quiet conversations between residents and visitors; a handful played cards in the facility’s bistro. Two residents sang along with the gospel music—one even danced! She told us that she used to dance frequently and was afraid she might have forgotten how; we respectfully disagreed—her dancing was delightful!One resident’s daughter, whose father is the facility’s artist-in-residence, informed us that she was pleased with his care. The fruits of his labor are displayed near the small activity room, which also boasts a computer with internet access and a TV. Staff told us of plans to create a central room, which would combine the bistro, foyer and common area. Seating areas outfit the short, broad hallways detailed with lovely crown molding. Residents furnish their sunny studio apartments, each of which boasts a full bathroom with raised toilets. Although the chef primarily serves Italian cuisine, the menu listed swordfish and chicken pot pie on the day of our visit. Everyone seems to agree on a favorite meal: meatloaf, mashed potatoes and corn. Mealtime is a relaxing event here; residents enjoy lingering over wine and conversation after eating.Alzheimer’s residents spend most of their time in the secured dementia unit. A number watched TV in the spacious dining and activity area; with its plain décor, we can see why they find it a calming and welcome retreat. One resident enjoyed a relaxing hand massage from a staff member. We observed another gentleman napping in the Snoezelen room, a calm spot that engages soft stimulation of the senses through light and sound. Memory boxes display photographs and knickknacks outside residents’ rooms. The daughter of one of the residents has her mother’s room periodically repainted in different colors; the walls were a soothing lavender shade at the time of our tour. The majority of residents’ rooms are shared and all feature sliding glass doors that access the grounds. Wooden furnishings grace the beautifully landscaped area, where birds sang among the trees. The walking club, supervised by a staff member, strolled along the pathway. Residents’ grandchildren often play ping pong on the back patio, which features benches and shaded tables. The facility’s two activity coordinators keep residents busy with outings, bingo and happy hour at the bistro. Listening to music and going on scenic drives are other popular choices.
