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

From Casa Sandoval's vantage point atop a ridge, residents enjoy beautiful views of a small creek winding through a wooded area and, beyond that, the city of Hayward. Ducks paddle about the creek as they wait for residents to feed them. Majestic trees shade a bench that sits in front of the home. Patio seating is plentiful in the outdoor areas. The facility is within walking distance of Hayward's Japanese Gardens.

Our guide exemplified the staff's friendly and helpful attitude during our tour. The two floors that house the assisted living areas feature sitting rooms, where residents often read beside large windows. Lamps and wall fixtures add warmth to the natural light throughout the home. Residents may choose from a variety of floor plans. Some rooms boast balconies; all have neutral-colored carpeting and vertical blinds. Handheld showerheads add convenience to the bathrooms. Gold trim accents the chairs in the spacious and tastefully appointed dining room, where continental breakfasts include a daily special such as waffles or omelets. Lunch often consists of soup and sandwiches or hot entrées supplemented by the salad bar. Dinner is the largest meal of the day and residents may choose from two different entrées.

A grand chandelier casts light on the piano in the polished foyer, where at least one staff member is always present to greet visitors. The main floor features numerous common areas that include a card room, complete with comfortable chairs and round tables; a billiards room, furnished with slot machines and tables for poker, checkers and other games; and a theater room where residents enjoy movies. Complimentary ice cream is available in the ice cream parlor. We observed residents utilizing common areas throughout the facility; they seemed to particularly enjoy exercising in the activity room. Casa Sandoval's residents are enthusiastic about the variety of activities, which includes story writing, Bible study and outings to restaurants and scenic areas.