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

"We spoil our residents" and "I love working here" are two staff comments that seem to embody the spirit of Hillcrest Center. To call this warm, nurturing space a "facility" seems far too institutional. On the day of our tour, one of the first things we noticed was a bulletin board announcing the Annual Senior Prom. Photographs from last year's event showed well-coiffed, happy couples. Letters from grateful family members hung from another bulletin board. We had high expectations after that, and the rest of the tour rose to the occasion. Hillcrest is located directly across the street from a nature-filled arboretum. With Arcadia University within walking distance, the surrounding community is filled with life. Old oak trees, flowers and a rosebush in front provide splendid views. Two enclosed areas, one specifically for residents with dementia, offer shade under trees and umbrella-topped tables. Light bleeds in through multiple windows throughout this stucco and cinderblock building. New floors, carpets and wallpaper adorn most rooms. Residents can utilize a number of common spaces for activities and leisure time. The sunroom is stunning, a perfect indoor spot to appreciate nature. Another common room boasts a china closet, computer, ice machine, rockers, sofas, tables and pendulum clock. Those who engage in rehabilitation exercises can do so in the newly renovated gym. Other activities include religious services, plant care, watching movies, manicures and a men's group. Residents with dementia live on the first floor, also known as the Homestead Unit. Families help decorate residents' moderately sized rooms to add personality. Photographs on the walls help with location recognition. To further improve memory and function, this unit has its own list of activities such as a woodworking, pet therapy, reminiscence and tactile exercises, trivia and word games. The second floor is split into two sections, one side secure and the other for the general population. The third floor serves as a short-term rehab unit. Dark cherrywood furniture instills a homey charm to resident rooms. Each floor has its own dining room. New chairs surround cloth-covered tables, set with china, cutlery and small floral centerpieces. All meals are prepared in-house. Lunch is the main meal of the day, and the menu on our visit included potato crunch fish, tropical sweet potatoes and green beans.