Sunnyside Gardens in downtown Sunnyvale is a non-profit, family-owned boutique community for seniors 55 and up, and folks seem to like how it's close to El Camino Hospital, Kaiser Santa Clara, and the walkable downtown with shops, restaurants, the Senior Center, and a weekly Farmer's Market. The staff here, most of whom have worked there for years, stay awake through every night and help out whenever needed, and the care team keeps a good ratio so there's always someone available, whether it's for assisted living or memory care. Residents get help with daily life, from bathing and dressing to medication management, incontinence care, and support moving from bed to wheelchair if needed, and if someone needs memory care for Alzheimer's or is at risk for wandering, staff provide purpose and safety while focusing on preserving dignity.
The facility has well-laid-out living spaces made to feel more like spacious hotel rooms than ordinary apartments, and folks can bring pets-small, medium, large dogs, and cats-so long as the animal fits with their routine. Folks all have private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and furnished rooms, plus high-speed internet, air conditioning, cable TV, and Wi-Fi, and rooms can be set up different ways depending on personal need. Meals are prepared by a professional chef, with restaurant-style dining that covers special diets and allergies, and nutrition is a focus, with three full meals daily, snacks, and the choice of all-day dining. Weekly activities include a Friday Happy Hour, gardening clubs, movie nights in the community theater, arts and music programs, and regular exercise, like seated movement every morning after breakfast, with resident-run and community-sponsored events every day.
Sunnyside Gardens handles transportation and parking, and offers rides to medical and dental appointments as well as outings, plus move-in coordination, housekeeping, laundry, and even help for families. The outdoor spaces are a draw for many, with landscaped courtyards, walking paths, and a community garden, and residents can spend time in these areas or join the intergenerational program with nearby schools. Healthcare at Sunnyside Gardens covers help with diabetes management-like monitoring blood sugar but not giving insulin shots-and folks get medication management, hands-on daily care, memory support, and tailored wellness programs, and there's also rehab after illness or surgery if needed. Memory care features dedicated services for people facing confusion or wandering, while assisted living provides personalized plans for each resident according to their health and wishes.
Inside, there are shared rooms for social gatherings, a library, activity rooms, and communal spaces set up to encourage talking, games, or just passing the time, and some events involve devotional activities if wanted. Independent living options are available, and respite care gives families short-term support. Pets are allowed, and there's a focus on a warm, relaxed environment that values each person's independence and personal story. The California Department of Social Services licenses the facility, and on the care side, Sunnyside Gardens partners with CareMore Health to offer on-site medical care. Concierge or standby assistance makes things like getting up or moving easier, and non-ambulatory care is available for folks who need it. Sunnyside Gardens' longtime staff try to know each person's needs and preferences, and the community strives to help everyone feel supported and engaged, whether during planned activities, quiet days, or social hours in the lounge.
