With its a la carte menu of services, Sunrise Assisted Living of Paoli provides care for individuals with varying levels of need. On our visit, staff members seemed to have close relationships with residents, all of whom appeared well dressed and groomed. We met some inspiring folks while touring this facility. One resident manages her own tube feedings; staff members receive special training to understand this process. Another woman, who has dementia, talked to us at length, seeming thrilled to socialize with new people. Her energetic demeanor was contagious. The Reminiscence Neighborhood houses twenty-one memory impaired residents in a secure, cleverly designed environment. A central common area separates the kitchen, dining and living rooms with half walls for an integrated feel. The décor is tactilely and visually stimulating, incorporating faux fur wall hangings, dolls and other memorabilia. An enclosed porch presents a pleasant alternative to the Snoezelen room for quiet time.
The community sits in a commercial area, along with a hospital, nursing home, private school and several small businesses. In standard Sunrise fashion, a wraparound porch surrounds most of the building. Residents rock in chairs on the porch, watching passersby beyond the white picket fence. Although the campus is small, it’s beautifully landscaped, marked by evergreens and crisscrossed by walking paths. An adjacent playground provides amusement for visiting children, who may be tempted to move in, considering the facility’s attitude toward animals! We met three well-behaved dogs, including Shane, a canine resident. Painting, crafts, games, watching movies, practicing yoga, knitting, and attending religious services and wellness seminars are all popular with this crowd.
A jukebox plays old favorites in the quaint bistro, which serves beverages and snacks. The adjacent living room features a fireplace and elegant décor, with maroon and hunter green furnishings, carpet and window treatments. Silk flowers, fish tanks, aviaries and paintings are visually stimulating. Large windows and chandeliers make the dining room bright and inviting. All rooms have ample space for seating areas and personal furnishings.
