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

Pennypack Center is located in a sleepy residential section of northeast Philadelphia. Inside, blonde oak marks the wall borders and flooring. Beige, green and burgundy accents mingle in the wallpaper and furnishings. During our tour, residents' rooms were undergoing massive renovations; wood furnishings and colorful touches were being added to enhance their aesthetic appeal. Even during construction, the rooms were quite pleasant, due in part to large windows looking out onto green areas. Natural light visually expands the limited space. Since Pennypack Center is very small, common rooms are used for activities and dining. There are no alternate choices at mealtime. A small gazebo area allows residents to enjoy the outdoors. A decidedly mixed resident population includes those in need of short-term rehabilitation, others with dementia and residents requiring long-term care due to physical issues. A cooperative attitude pervades the facility and is evident in the high-quality care that residents receive. The communal culture also translates to the staff members, who have a voice in how the facility is run. In fact, during our tour we complimented the remodeled therapy room and showers; our tour guide informed us that one of her colleagues had helped design the room. She went on to explain that management was always looking for input to improve services. She, along with other staff members, seemed quite happy at their jobs. The activity schedule accommodates a variety of abilities and interests. The perennial favorite is bingo, which occurs every other day. Crafts and ball tossing keeps residents' hands busy, whereas current events discussions, newspaper reading and social hours keeps them updated on what's new both inside and outside Pennypack Center. Movies and bible study round out the offerings. Occupational, speech and physical therapies are available.