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

The owner of Allview Assisted Living built the facility from the ground up after finding scores of unsatisfactory options for his grandmother, who had Alzheimer's. The secure, simply designed facility, which blends with the surrounding buildings, has a backyard designed with the dementia population in mind. In the middle of the lawn is a wandering path—a safe, contained spot for residents who tend to roam. Lemon trees and plants create a calming environment. Residents participate in gardening sessions, and the fruits of their labor are beautiful! There's also a second-story patio with a stairway leading outside the property as an emergency exit, but this is never used unsupervised. We saw one resident sitting on an antique bench, enjoying the outdoors. The surrounding area can be unsafe to navigate after sundown—guests may park in the drugstore lot across the street, per an arrangement with management. Allview is located just minutes from the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Bowl.

The interior décor is homey, incorporating faux flowers throughout. The entire facility is appropriately lit with warm, even lighting. The front lobby resembles an old-fashioned living room with floral sofas and chairs awash in shades of green. Along one wall stands a wooden display case containing realistic models of a telephone, doorbell and light switch, which further emphasizes the feeling of "home." During our tour, we observed several content residents watching TV here. The common rooms are named after well-known local streets, and all have easy-to-read signage to help residents orient themselves. One hallway features a collage of resident photographs taken from recent events and activities. The dining room continues the gentle green color scheme and is furnished with elegant wooden tables. Feeding assistance and pureed meals are available for residents who need them.

A clearly labeled elevator near the lobby leads directly to the activity room, which is due for some remodeling. As is par for the course with Allview, the activity schedule addresses the specific needs of persons with dementia through brain-stimulating activities and family involvement. Arts and crafts, movies, exercise, music, barbecues and field trips are all on the bill. Memory boxes displaying cherished photographs and memorabilia make it easier for residents to identify their rooms, and give staff insight into residents' earlier lives. The spacious resident rooms are carpeted and thoughtfully designed—we saw a lowered bed belonging to one resident who is prone to falls. Beds are arranged to optimize privacy. Personal decoration is encouraged, and with large walk-in closets, there is plenty of space for storage.