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

Upscale shops line the cobblestone street where this facility's exterior is marked by French doors and many windows. The vestibule leads into another set of French doors, creating a light-filled area that then enters the building proper. The main door is locked and requires a code to enter or exit. Patio chairs are stored in the vestibule so participants can enjoy the outdoors on nice days. Inside, a baby grand piano is surrounded by numerous recliners. A kitchen occupies the opposite side of the room. On our tour, the chef relayed that hotdogs and hamburgers were always a hit and showed us a detailed list of participants' dietary needs, likes and dislikes. The dining area décor changes quite frequently. Fees are not on a sliding scale, but if a participant is part of the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) network and is referred by PCA, there is no fee. Transportation costs $12 per trip. Senior Care of Chestnut Hill excels in its level of care; staff is exceptionally sensitive with a work culture of focusing on the positive. The program is designed to maintain function, ensuring participants are clean and cared for, and that behavior is not disruptive to others. A pragmatic and holistic approach seems to inform most staff interactions with participants. The activity list is creative and dynamic. Past trips have included visiting senior care facilities for lunch, going to farms, plays, museums and the New Jersey Aquarium. We observed an exercise program where staff really worked to get everyone involved. We also saw participants with advanced dementia cutting construction paper during an activity, and were pleasantly surprised by their enthusiasm and concentration.