I am not a social media user or review writing type but given the gravity of decisions regarding care facilities for my elderly mother, I am writing in hopes of helping other families in similar distressing circumstances. Over the last five years we have tried every possible way to provide the best care for my elderly, widowed mother. She has Parkinson's Disease and other complicating conditions requiring considerable medical oversight but also has stubbornly insisted on staying in her home. We have spared no expense outfitting her house to accommodate her needs including multiple live-in caregivers but after numerous emergency visits to the hospital it was essential to find a live in facility. After arranging her transfer to the highest ranked facilities in Los Gatos, Saratoga, and vicinity and each time she would find it unacceptable and insist on going back home. Complicating the matter is that I am trying to administer this from 3,000 miles away. Suffice it to say, she is difficult to please.
The day after Christmas after another emergency visit, the hospital recommended Sunnyview. She was transferred there under a Rehabilitation directive. Thankfully she reported to me that she really liked it there! (That's a huge hurdle) The facility has lots of space, not crowded at all, rooms are larger, ground level with large windows with flowering bushes and plenty of sunlight. Most importantly, the staff is fantastic. Besides having the highest nurse to patient ratio I have encountered, they are quite attentive to her needs and keep me very well apprised on her status, medically and her overall mood. Also it's very important that the location has all levels of care needs; retirement, assisted living, rehabilitation, skilled nursing, hospice, etc. Even though we're past the point for the more independent levels, not having to relocate if/when more care is needed is a huge benefit given how long it takes to secure a place anywhere and how unexpectedly urgent the need may arise. One really can't assume the future at this precarious stage of life.
From my perspective, I call and every nurse or receptionist answering the phone recognizes my number and greets me by name. They are all excellent, but a couple have been absolute Godsends. Danielle is the Chaplain's assistant and probably the most cheerful and sincerely caring person I can think of. She has arranged for the pastor's visits and is genuinely concerned for mom's happiness and contentment. Most amazing to me is Sandra, who is the most perceptive social worker I've ever encountered. Given that my mother can barely speak due to Parkinson's, she has a gift for reading nonverbal cues, countenance and body language so quickly and accurately I would swear she's psychic! She is easily accessible, even after hours or weekends, via her mobile phone. Her situational assessments are invaluable to me.
Given how long and frustrating finding an acceptable place for mom has been, to finally find this place is a huge relief! If I could give it 6 stars I definitely would! I hope this helps. read more