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

Fanned palm trees, sprawling jasmine and lush greenery lend a resort-like feel to Avalon at the Berkshire and Recollections. Situated in a safe Berkeley neighborhood, the facility is within walking distance to University Avenue and the North Berkeley BART station. Inside, chandeliers hang from the high ceilings, illuminating beige couches and dark wooden accent pieces. A table set with fresh fruit and water is part of the daily snack service. In one area, residents placed offerings on a Dias de los Muertos altar to honor loved ones who had passed on.

Residents of the main unit enjoy generously sized rooms, some of which feature patios. Although all of the rooms are sufficiently lit, the ground floor rooms tend to be dimmer, perhaps due to the low ceilings. The bathrooms are equipped with a unique upright tub and bath chair that add convenience and functionality for residents with impaired mobility. In the Alzheimer's unit, residents' rooms are moderately sized. Skylights in the halls brighten this section of the facility. The patio doors, which only open partially, have added security features to deter wandering.

Two small dining rooms on each floor impart an intimacy that is often lacking in larger dining areas. Residents from both units feasted on hearty barbeque ribs with home fries on our visit. The menu, which is approved by the facility's dietician, features a wide variety including manicotti, chicken almondine, baked salmon and corned beef. A white meat alternative is always offered. The residents' country store also hosts ice cream socials. Tech-savvy residents enjoy workstations with web access. The activity areas, although small, seem to foster greater interaction between residents.

Residents' rooms surround Avalon's two outdoor patios. Both are furnished with shaded tables and seating. The barbeque was recently acquired with warm weather socials in mind. The patio for Alzheimer's residents is secured so that they may safely enjoy the shaded garden, which features various plants, blossoms and trees.

The activity director has implemented thoughtful programming for residents of both units. Activities such as flower arranging, hors d'oeuvre prepping and donation drives for assorted charities supplement the mainstays. The Alzheimer's activity program has been tailored to reduce behavioral issues and stimulate memory. Residents may arrange for special in-home services that include massage therapy, dental and podiatry services. When we arrived, a group of residents piled into the living room to watch a performance by the Berkeley Women's Chorus. It was a big hit, if all the clapping and smiling were any indication!