Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community

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Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community

3935 Sunnyside Drive, Suite A, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.4 from 44 reviews
5 stars
33
4 stars
2
3 stars
4
2 stars
2
1 stars
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Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community

Pros

  • pro The staff are incredibly kind, patient, and genuinely care for residents.
  • pro The facilities are beautiful and well kept.
  • pro The chefs and dining staff provide friendly service and good-tasting meals.
  • pro Sunnyside offers a wide range of activities and continuous care options.
  • pro The nursing staff are compassionate, attentive, and dedicated.
  • pro The community provides a peaceful, scenic environment with a pond and wildlife.
  • pro Families feel confident that loved ones are in capable, caring hands.
  • pro The community is praised for its friendly, helpful atmosphere and strong sense of community.
  • pro Sunnyside has a strong reputation as a top senior care facility in the area.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer's insurance would not cover the stay, labeling it out of network.
  • pro Only two nurses offered a dismissive comfort, laughing and saying, "You will be okay," which felt insufficient.
  • pro The staff failed to recognize that patients have rights.
  • pro There were too many rules that made the reviewer feel imprisoned.
  • pro The head nurse claimed the reviewer had broken rules every week.
  • pro The building is old and in need of a new air conditioning unit.
  • pro The reviewer would not stay again, stating Sunnyside is for the very elderly.
  • pro The routine 2 am and 5 am checks felt intrusive.

Review

The Sunnyside Retirement Community leaves a strong first impression, especially when you walk into the Panill Building. The lobby is described as "gorgeous with chandeliers" and a front desk that feels staffed around the clock, giving a sense of Ritz-Carlton hospitality as you check in. Yet that polished entrance masks a transition you feel as you move higher: the atmosphere changes as you ride up to the third floor, where the day-to-day reality of life in a senior community unfolds. Across the many voices here, people consistently remark that the place blends elegance and warmth - a setting that feels special even as it hosts the ordinary rhythms of aging and care.

The care experience can be a mixed bag, depending on who you are and what you need. One long-term stay for a broken ankle in April 2025 stands out for its hardship with insurance and its intimate glimpse into the daily routines of care. The writer recalls that their insurance would not pay because the stay was "out of network," and they were met with a few moments of levity from two nurses who laughed and reassured them, "You will be okay." The CNAs are singled out as exceptionally diligent - "kind and worked their tail feathers off taking care of us all" - even as the patient found the midnight and early-morning checks intrusive rather than reassuring. The building itself is described as old and in need of a new air-conditioning unit, and the rules felt heavy, to the point of making the patient feel imprisoned at times. The sentiment is pointed: if rules are so important, there should be a written sheet handed to patients on arrival, and a weekly report of any infractions. It's a nuanced portrait of a facility that can be loving and attentive but occasionally overbearing in its governance.

Food and some staff leave a distinctly positive mark in these accounts. The chefs are praised as "amongst the nicest people I had met," who go out of their way to help, and the food is described as really good. Even in the midst of critiques, culinary staff shine through as a bright spot in daily life at Sunnyside. One visitor's blunt takeaway - "Would I ever stay again? NO !! Sunnyside is for The Very Elderly!" - speaks to a mismatch many feel between what the community is designed to be and what the individual guest hopes to experience. For some, the message is not about the quality of food or care here so much as about whether the setting suits their age, needs, and expectations of independence.

Beyond individual stays, the community resonates deeply with family members and visitors who come back to share their appreciation. Several paragraphs celebrate extended family connections: "Both my grandmothers moved to Sunnyside a couple years back and I cannot recommend it enough!" The sentiments are clear: the staff feels incredibly kind, patient, and genuinely caring; the facilities are beautiful and well kept; and the wide array of activities and classes helps residents form meaningful friendships. Those who visit often hear about the "friends they've made" and the tangible sense of community that grows from shared outings, classes, and everyday interactions. It's a narrative of a place that maintains dignity, charm, and opportunity for connection.

People who live there or have lived there long-term repeatedly describe Sunnyside as a place with life and purpose. One writer shares, "I've lived here since July 2015 and love it," noting not just the activities but the on-site restaurant and the friendly, helpful staff. Another confirms the warm continuity of care: "Wonderful, caring staff. I feel very confident that my mother is in their care." And a visitor who spent only a quick moment in the hallways still leaves impressed with the overall quality: "this MUST BE the #1 retirement community in the area. I was impressed." There's a sense that Sunnyside earns a reputation through consistent, compassionate service and a well-executed continuum of care.

The campus's picturesque setting and the sense of a connected community are repeatedly highlighted. The pond at the entrance becomes a recurring focal point - an object of affection for visitors who admire its views and the resident wildlife, including swans and ducks. People even bring up questions about the pond, such as whether the pond is stocked with fish, underscoring how much the landscape contributes to the experience. Several testimonials mention the pond as a quiet anchor for residents and families, a place to pause and reflect amid daily routines. One non-resident observer even notes the pond's capacity to welcome people in for events like a big yard sale, a reminder that Sunnyside is a living, engaging place, not just a building.

The thread running through these narratives is a strong conviction about the character of Sunnyside: it is a place where caring people, a supportive culture, and a strong sense of community shine through the challenges and the glory alike. Names like Tanya Zudilin are singled out for their exceptional helpfulness and warmth, leaving smiles and affirmations with visitors and residents. Others highlight the breadth of care options - from independent living to assisted living and skilled health care - coupled with a vibrant schedule of activities and a well-regarded in-house restaurant. Several statements summarize the overall esteem in which Sunnyside is held: "Best service in town," "Caring and Empathetic staff. The best reputation in this area hands down," and "Moving to Sunnyside was one of the best lifestyle decisions we made," with a touch of local pride about Virginia's vibrancy and amenities.

If you're weighing Sunnyside against other options, these reflections paint a balanced picture. The place can feel magical at its best, a resort-like entrance and a serene campus that nurtures social connection and everyday purpose. It can also feel imposing to those who need a less regimented schedule or who require medical or assisted-care emphasis that aligns more closely with personal privacy and autonomy. The community's strengths - exceptional staff across shifts, a sense of family and continuity, lovely grounds and an on-site dining option, and a broad continuum of care - are repeatedly highlighted as the reasons people stay, visit, and recommend Sunnyside. While no place is perfect and a few residents have voiced frustration with rules and aging facilities, the overarching impression is that Sunnyside remains a trusted, well-regarded home for many in the area - one that has touched a wide circle of families with its care, its character, and its enduring community spirit.

Features

Housing

  • 84 resident community capacity 84 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are important for seniors because they provide a range of housing options and care services all in one location. This allows seniors to age in place and receive the level of care they need as their health changes, without having to move to a new facility. CCRCs provide a sense of security and peace of mind for seniors and their families, knowing that they will be taken care of no matter what the future holds.
  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Shenandoah Valley Regional (10 miles away) Shenandoah Valley Regional (10 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
  • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.

Care Services

  • 12-16 hour nursing 12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community is a well-equipped and comprehensive assisted living community located in Harrisonburg, VA. With a focus on providing exceptional care and comfortable living for its residents, this community offers a wide range of amenities and care services to meet individual needs.

For those who value their appearance and relaxation, there is an on-site beauty salon where residents can receive professional hair and grooming services. The availability of cable or satellite TV ensures that residents can stay connected with the outside world from the comfort of their own rooms. Additionally, community-operated transportation is provided for ease of access to various locations.

The computer center allows residents to keep up with technology and enjoy internet connectivity. The dining room offers restaurant-style dining experiences with delicious meals prepared by skilled chefs who are able to cater to special dietary restrictions. Housekeeping services ensure that living spaces are always clean and tidy.

Residents can stay physically active by utilizing the fitness room, while the fully furnished gaming room provides entertainment options for leisurely activities. The presence of a garden and outdoor space allows individuals to enjoy nature and fresh air. A small library is available for those who love reading and expanding their knowledge.

Important aspects of daily life are also taken care of including move-in coordination assistance, private bathrooms for personal convenience, telephone access, non-medical transportation arrangements as well as transportation to doctor's appointments. The wellness center helps promote overall health and wellbeing.

Care services are provided around the clock with a 24-hour call system in place for immediate assistance. Trained staff provide supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, transfers, meal preparation, medication management, and adhering to specific dietary needs. A mental wellness program supports emotional health.

In terms of nearby amenities, Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community benefits from easy access to cafes for social outings or casual conversations nearby. Parks offer opportunities for outdoor recreation while pharmacies provide convenient access to medications. A wide range of physicians are available for medical needs, and varied dining options can be found in the surrounding area. Places of worship and theaters cater to spiritual and cultural preferences. Additionally, the proximity of hospitals ensures that comprehensive medical care is easily accessible.

Overall, Sunnyside Presbyterian Retirement Community provides a safe, comfortable, and engaging assisted living community with an array of amenities and care services to enhance the lives of its residents.

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • Epic Pharmacies (0 miles)
  • Peakside Pharmacy Care Center (0.7 miles)
  • Sentara RMH Pharmacy (1.2 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
  • Health Mart Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • Epic Pharmacies (2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.3 miles)

Physicians

  • Hess Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine (0.6 miles)
  • Peak View Internal Medicine (0.7 miles)
  • Bluestone Pediatrics (0.7 miles)
  • Rmh Imaging Services (1.2 miles)
  • Rmh Hahn Cancer Center (1.3 miles)
  • RMH Orthopedics & Sports MDCN - William Lennen MD (1.3 miles)
  • Rmh Surgical Clinic (1.4 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Peoples Baptist Church (0.8 miles)
  • Valley Church (2.7 miles)
  • Muhlenberg Lutheran Church (3.9 miles)

Hospitals

  • Rockingham Memorial Hospital (1.2 miles)
  • Rmh Outpatient Surgery (1.2 miles)
  • Rmh Family Birthplace (1.2 miles)
  • Rmh Women's Health Focus (2.2 miles)
  • Rockingham Memorial Hospital (3.5 miles)
  • Rockingham Memorial Hospital (3.5 miles)
  • Healthsource (3.5 miles)

Restaurants

  • Golden Corral (1.6 miles)
  • Wendy's (1.7 miles)
  • Moe's Southwest Grill (1.8 miles)
  • Burger King (1.8 miles)
  • Red Lobster (1.9 miles)
  • Mexican Restaurant Jalisco 3 (2.1 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.1 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (1.8 miles)
  • Panera Bread (2.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (3 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.2 miles)

Parks

  • A Dream Come True Playground (2.2 miles)
  • Purcell Park (3.6 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Harrisonburg (2.4 miles)

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