Fairwinds – Sand Creek Named Best Independent Living and Best Assisted Living by U.S. News & World Report

Apr 16, Alissa Sauer

For decades, U.S. News & World Report has been a trusted name in ranking everything from hospitals and colleges to cars and mutual funds. Now in its fourth consecutive year, their Best Senior Living ratings are helping older adults and their families identify top-tier senior living communities nationwide.

We’re proud to announce that Fairwinds – Sand Creek has been named among the Best Senior Living Communities in the nation—recognized in 2025 as Best Independent Living and Best Assisted Living. This recognition means so much to us because it’s based on what matters most: the voices of our residents and their families.

Take a closer look at the methodology of the rankings and see how we stacked up!

U.S. News and World Report Best Senior Living Awards

Today’s older adults are redefining what retirement looks like. Senior living is no longer a final step—it’s a fresh start, full of purpose, independence, and connection. At Fairwinds – Sand Creek, we’re proud to be part of this movement, offering services and care that protect privacy, promote dignity, and encourage joyful living. That’s exactly what U.S. News & World Report set out to measure in its 2025 Best Senior Living Awards.

“U.S. News provides in-depth information on multiple community types to help potential residents and their families find, in consultation with their doctors as needed, the best place to help meet their needs,” said Zach Adams, senior health data engineer at U.S. News. “Communities that are highly rated excel in making residents feel safe, well cared for, and highly satisfied by the services provided.”

Their in-depth survey collected feedback from over 200,000 residents and family members across nearly 4,000 communities nationwide between March 2024 and February 2025.

The survey covered key factors like:

• The kindness and professionalism of the staff
• Quality and enjoyment of food and dining
• Engagement through activities and programs
• Responsiveness of caregivers and team members
• Safety, respect, and a sense of community

Fairwinds – Sand Creek Exceeds Expectations

According to this year’s survey results, Fairwinds – Sand Creek stands out in nearly every category:

• 100% of respondents said they feel safe in our community
• 100% said the food and beverage staff are friendly
• 99% said the food and beverage service is prompt
• 98% said the health and wellness staff listens and treats them with respect

But don’t just take our word for it—here’s what our residents and families had to say:

“There are numerous assisted living facilities in SE Idaho but I could not think of a better one than Fairwinds – Sand Creek. Also about every medical needs one may need including hospitals are all located very near.”

“”High, over-the-top quality care. I am so glad that I chose this place.”

“This is my home and I’m very content to stay here until my time on earth is finished.”

“”It’s welcoming and feels like home. Whenever I ask a question I always get an answer. The residents are just so nice and friendly I enjoy living here.”

“”I brought my husband in because I needed more care for him. After being here with him and seeing the compassion and care they gave him I decided that this was going to be my full time home! I now live on the 3rd floor, have a beautiful apartment, this is my full time home!! My children are now retired and they don’t need to worry about me when they travel.”

“It is a comfortable relaxed atmosphere, people are friendly, couldn’t be at a better place and I am fussy!”

“Fairwinds has been a comfortable, safe, and pleasant place to spend quality time.”

“This place is the best place I know of and if my parents were alive I would want them here!”

Experience the Best of Senior Living in 2025

At Fairwinds – Sand Creek, we believe that senior living should feel like home—but better. Our personalized approach, vibrant lifestyle offerings, and compassionate care set us apart—and now we have the award to prove it. We invite you to experience the difference at Fairwinds – Sand Creek! See firsthand why we’ve been recognized as Best Independent Living and Best Assisted Living by U.S. News and World Report. Contact us today to schedule a tour!