(Provided by Gilbert Guide's on-site reviewer)

A handful of residents paused their conversation to greet us in the spacious lobby at Cypress Meadows. The high ceiling generates a spacious feeling and dark wooden furniture, armchairs and artificial plants compose the contemporary décor. The living room is a long design that becomes crowded during certain activities, such as guest performances. Several residents enjoyed a game of bingo in the living room, while others warmed themselves at the fireplace. Assisted living residents enjoy a full roster of activities, including exercise and happy hour. Dementia residents have fewer options. All residents may borrow books from the in-house library.

The common area in the dementia unit is filled with a hodgepodge of soft couches and chairs. Numerous small windows furnish the home with sunlight. An earthy combination of green, tan and brown colors the broad hallways, which feature handrails, seating areas and high windows that offer a glimpse of the outdoors. Residents' moderately sized rooms access balconies or small patios. The home features two outdoor areas, one of which is secured. Both offer simple landscaping with pathways, seating and a fountain, which was not in use at the time of our tour.

Cypress Meadows' staff is affable and attentive. It was heartening to witness several frail dementia residents who became animated when engaged by others. According to our guide, the new chef has improved the quality of the food by simply taking residents' suggestions. The fare, which is primarily American, also incorporates sugar-free desserts. As we passed one resident who was napping, our guide informed us that he is quite the ladies' man. Apparently, the female residents find his "rough-around-the-edges" charm very attractive!