Sunflower Gardens is an Alzheimer’s Specialty Center that first welcomed residents in the fall of 2015. Purpose-built for memory care, the community is designed as a single-story complex comprised of three distinct neighborhoods, each connected by a vibrant common space known as “the town.” Each neighborhood accommodates a maximum of 16 residents, promoting a cozy, home-like atmosphere. This structure aims to provide comfort and familiarity, offering residents the opportunity to engage in everyday activities, such as shopping at the market, attending services at the chapel, visiting the beauty salon and barber shop, enjoying a meal at the café, or relaxing at the tavern. There are also unique amenities like a post office, bank, pharmacy, library, and even a Snoezelen Room designed for sensory enrichment.
Residents of Sunflower Gardens enjoy freedom of movement among the specially planned neighborhoods and enclosed outdoor walking areas, which include pleasant verandas and screened-in porches. Within each neighborhood, two living room areas invite relaxation and socialization, while dedicated dining rooms create intimate meal gatherings so residents are not overwhelmed during mealtime. Meals are served restaurant-style in the full dining rooms, with food prepared in the main kitchen and transported to each neighborhood. Residents are welcome to participate in mealtime activities, from keeping meals warm under supervision to assisting with setting tables or washing dishes, encouraging a sense of independence and fulfillment.
Each residence at Sunflower Gardens may be private or semi-private, and comes equipped with cable television availability, individual thermostat-controlled heat and air conditioning, emergency call systems in both studios and bathrooms, and ADA bathrooms featuring walk-in showers with built-in benches, grab bars, night lights, and contrasting colors for safety and ease of use. Studios are also telephone-ready. Every resident has a personal mailbox in the lobby, with keys provided to responsible parties upon admission. Security and peace of mind are ensured through features such as a CCTV system, automatically locking and unlocking doors, card and keypad access, door alarms, and regular, staff-monitored room checks.
The staff at Sunflower Gardens provides comprehensive care tailored to each individual's needs. Personal care plans are developed collaboratively with residents, their families, and therapy services. Support may include supervision, redirection, assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and grooming, as well as incontinence support and escorting to meals or activities. Medication is administered by supervised staff, including regular evaluations, and a pharmacist conducts quarterly medication reviews. Each resident has their nutritional needs assessed and monitored by a registered dietitian, and three daily meals plus nutritional snacks are always available.
Sunflower Gardens fosters an active, engaging lifestyle with planned social and independent activities in the town areas, giving residents plenty of opportunities for stimulation and enjoyment. Therapy services—physical, occupational, speech, and psychological—are available through the choice of the responsible party. Transportation to physician appointments is offered for a fee, and a primary care physician visits the community daily on weekdays, with additional specialist support as needed. A wheelchair-accessible van ensures mobility for outings and medical transportation. Regular health reviews, respite care, and transitional services are also available, providing flexible support for families and residents. Sunflower Gardens is committed to creating an environment that feels like home, offering peace of mind and quality care for those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.