Sunrise Senior Living

About

Discover the journey of Sunrise Senior Living, a pioneer in the senior living industry renowned for its warm and personalized care. In 1981, Paul and Terry Klaassen established the first Sunrise community in Oakton, Virginia, driven by a groundbreaking vision: to offer seniors alternative living options that prioritize quality of life. Dissatisfied with the sterile, hospital-like environments of traditional nursing homes, the Klaassens envisioned vibrant communities filled with compassionate caregivers and content residents. Today, they continue to serve as trusted advisors, ensuring each community embodies Sunrise's mission of providing a highly personalized lifestyle for its residents.

The inspiration for Sunrise's approach came from Terry's personal experience at age 15, when she and her father sought to care for her terminally ill mother at home rather than in an impersonal nursing facility. Paul’s upbringing in the Netherlands further influenced their vision. There, elder care environments known as verzorgingstehuizen offered warmth and support, allowing seniors to maintain independence while having access to assistance when needed. This nurturing model inspired Paul and Terry to introduce a similar concept to America.

Sunrise began with the opening of its first community near Fairfax, Virginia, where Paul and Terry lived alongside residents, fostering a welcoming atmosphere akin to fine inns and small European hotels. This setting became the foundation of the Sunrise care model. By 1987, they had introduced the first Victorian mansion-style community, now emblematic of Sunrise communities across the United States and Canada.

Over the years, Sunrise has expanded its service model to include specialized care options such as independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, short-term stays, and hospice coordination. The enduring mission of Sunrise remains clear: to champion quality of life for all seniors. Guided by feedback from team members, residents, and families, Sunrise's vision is to create the preferred lifestyle for enjoying longer, healthier, and happier lives.