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

Sunrise Senior Living in Belmont offers casually elegant senior residences. A stream borders the tree-studded property, separating it from a neighboring parish and school—a small bridge provides access the facility. Despite a secluded feeling, the facility is actually in the heart of Belmont, within easy walking distance to a variety of small shops, restaurants and a grocery store. Bricks and cobblestones pave the way to the front door of the facility and the gardens surrounding the entrance are filled with fragrant flowers and climbing vines. The lobby is comfortable and busy. The dining room doubles as an ice cream parlor when not otherwise in use. A wraparound porch, a terrace and a sunroom all allow residents to enjoy their outdoor surroundings. Outside gardens provide the same opportunity and also seem to be a favorite area for visiting grandchildren to explore.

The living room and television area are popular spots for both residents and visitors. A concierge attends the front desk and assists with a variety of questions or concerns. Two cats and a dog also reside here—we found ourselves sharing the elevator with the good-natured dog.

Sunrise prides itself on attention to detail and high-quality care. Reminiscence kits and personalized memory boxes mark the entrance to residents' apartments. The bathrooms have color and light cues to encourage independence, and armoires are equipped with graduated dressing bars. The staff is friendly, caring and helpful.

An interesting program at Sunrise called Companion Living brings together unrelated residents, who share common backgrounds or interests, for the purpose of sharing a suite. Choosing this option provides obvious financial benefits and also enables new relationships to evolve. For these reasons alone, Companion Living and similar programs are becoming increasingly popular.