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

Woodacre Knolls' exterior is tidy, well-worn and quaint, with a wrought iron fence and a lovely old cactus out front. Inside lies an abundance of fantastic dark wood, Spanish-style antiques from various eras, and numerous attractive paintings with a Native American theme. One painting is of an Indian chief in full headdress; another features an Indian village. The former owner, an accomplished artist, filled the facility with his paintings; strolling the facility is like visiting a museum—one that the citizens of Redwood City are probably woefully unaware of! Mr. Bretschneider has since passed away but his wife continues to garden on the premises and his son now manages the facility.

This is truly a mom-and-pop operation. The staff members, who are very accommodating, appear comfortable and happy in their positions. The cook has been there for twenty-eight years and some of the attendants have been there for over fifteen years. The administrator is working to become a licensed vocational nurse so that she can assist with medical assessments. She is well-liked by the residents, and on our visit, promised to watch a movie with a new client later on. The administrator and other staff members work more than their allotted hours--by choice--showing their personal interest and involvement in the residents' well-being.

There are two floors in the main building. Since there are no elevators, the second floor is for very ambulatory individuals. Most people choose private rooms at Woodacre Knolls.

Perhaps inspired by all the paintings, art is a favorite activity; attractive decorations made by the residents are displayed in the common rooms. The staff checks and cleans eyeglasses and hearing aids on a weekly basis to make sure clients are comfortable. Democratic choice dictates the activities, which reflect the norm at most assisted living communities: games such as bingo are popular, as are regular exercise and attending religious services. Weekly manicures are a client favorite.