The foothills of Sun Valley slope around the grounds of Villa Scalabrini. Beautiful oak trees and flowers dot the land. At the entrance stands a statue of Bishop John Scalabrini, founder of the order of Scalabrini Fathers. They, along with the Augustinian Recollect Sisters, run the facility. Although most residents are Catholic, everyone is welcome. The front doors open into a luxurious lobby warmed by plush carpet and pastel walls. Paintings of religious persons and icons line the walls. The lobby extends into a bright and spacious living room, where elegant chandeliers drop down and antique-looking furnishings make a statement. In the living room, residents were chatting underneath a large portrait of Dolly Sinatra—Frank’s mother. According to facility lore, Dolly favored Villa Scalabrini in her charitable offerings. One wall in the living room is devoted to a doll collection that is a point of pride at the facility; inside the glass casing, several hundred dolls stand dressed in international costumes. All resident rooms are medium-sized and cozy. A cross hangs in each room, and all are carpeted. Furnishings are provided upon request, but most residents opt to bring their own. The dining room is elegant with wood tables, leather chairs, portraits on the walls and grand chandeliers. Besides three daily meals, Villa Scalabrini provides two snacks: an afternoon tea, and juice along with cookies or fruit in the evenings. Alternatives to the main entrées include a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, fruit plates, hot dogs and baked chicken.The on-site chapel hosts daily Mass and can accommodate over a hundred residents. The wall behind the altar is an imported Italian mosaic depicting Christ’s resurrection. Many of the activities at Villa Scalabrini are based on religion and spirituality—as such, the schedule includes Bible study courses and religious discussions. Other common areas include an arts and crafts room and a TV room. Activities include daily bingo, various fitness programs and karaoke. The library loans out both videos and books. The gym sports free weights and a treadmill among other equipment. The outdoor patio houses a waterfall surrounded by colorful plants. The backyard is large with several tall trees; tables are set out in summer. Special celebrations occur monthly and include Hawaiian luaus, Italian operas and mariachi music. Field trips to local museums and shows are also offered. The small, locked dementia unit is known as the Safe Care Center. Here, residents’ rooms are similar to the rest of the facility. The unit has its own dining room and a visiting room, which affords some privacy. Residents here are offered a variety of memory-enhancing and reminiscing activities—games and creating family albums are popular. Staff members are extremely caring and warm. We observed many caregivers assisting residents or simply extending a warm smile. Residents seemed content in the quiet and spiritual but still lively environment. One of the priests who founded Villa Scalabrini now lives at the facility. While his dementia precludes the realization that he was integral in creating this nurturing environment, his needs are now seen to by the people who appreciate his involvement the most.
