Bickford of Tinley Park

This is by far the most difficult review I have ever written. At one point, I had drafted a letter to send to the Governor of Illinois recognizing the outstanding efforts of the frontline caregivers who cared for my mother at this location. Individuals such as Eve, Michelle, Marcia, Randy, Tim, Kecia, Jallesa, and many others whose names I regretfully cannot recall at this moment, provided care that was compassionate, attentive, and unmatched. The love and dignity they showed my mother will never be forgotten. Unfortunately, my appreciation for the caregiving staff stands in stark contrast to the deeply troubling administrative and financial practices I later uncovered. While reviewing recent invoices, I discovered that we were being overcharged for services well beyond what was agreed upon. What followed was even more alarming. The Executive Director, Dawn, demonstrated a complete unwillingness to correct obvious billing errors or take accountability in a timely or professional manner. Her repeated responses were dismissive and deflective, often stating things such as, “I’m sorry the sales director didn’t make you aware of this charge,” or “There’s nothing I can do—corporate has to address it.” Most concerning was discovering that we were triple-charged for the same room on the same dates, with three separate charges listed as $175, $275, and $375. Charging three different rates for the same room, for the same dates, is indefensible and raises serious concerns about billing integrity and potential fraud. Let me be very clear: DO NOT enroll in auto-pay at this facility. Had I not carefully reviewed the invoices, these charges would have gone unnoticed and unchallenged. It is deeply disturbing that one day I was preparing a letter commending this facility to the Governor of Illinois, and the next day I found myself drafting correspondence to the Illinois Department of Public Health and other regulatory authorities to address what appears to be fraudulent and unethical conduct. Families entrust senior living facilities with their loved ones during their most vulnerable moments. While the caregivers here deserve recognition, the administrative leadership and billing practices at this location completely undermined that trust. Proceed with extreme caution.

Where do I begin? I can feel finally sleep knowing my dad’s in a great community. Actually, community is the perfect word as everyone cares so much! From Dawn, the Executive Director, to Meredith, the Patient Advocate, to Rene, the Activity Coordinator, to the nurses, chefs, CNAs and even the guest ambassador dogs, Lola and Archie, everyone looks out for my loved one. If my LO isn’t around for the ice cream social, Toya, one of the CNAs seeks him out! Every staff member is hands on!!! Plus, it’s beautiful!!! It’s truly like a family !!! So blessed to have my dad here!

On Monday June 1, 2020, my Aunt Christine Burns arrived at Bickford sweetly received by Vanessa. It was at the very beginning of the COVID epidemic and I was not allowed to enter Bickford to see her comfortably situated in her room. When family and loved ones were able to visit, Bickford presented as a warm and well kept facility and I felt at ease that my Aunt was in a good place. Over the years, I developed a great appreciation for caregivers. IT IS A HARD JOB! My Aunt had a proclivity for warmed milk & juice and the Bickford staff catered to that need. She was stubborn all the way to the end, could be frustrating and perhaps brought out the worst in a staff member whose nerves were frayed due to the weight of taking care of every need for multiple seniors. All that to say, Bickford is not a perfect place. There are staff members who are passionate & compassionate. It shows in the tenderness of their care. If I'm being honest, there are also some who do just enough in order to get through a shift. The latter overwhelms those who provide diligent support. Bickford needs to fix that in order to maintain good workers & prevent the diminution of our loved ones care. So yes, while Bickford is not perfect, for my Aunt; it was. Why? Because my Aunt was LOVED while there! Seeing and feeling that, I made it a point to be professional when addressing any complaints and more importantly; I treated the staff with respect and kindness. I often told them "thank you, I appreciate you, I love you!" so that they would see there was someone who cared about them as they were giving care to our loved ones. Food for thought families and friends... My Aunt started her transition on September 8, 2025. During her transition period, the stream of staff members who gave her hugs and kisses and talked in her ear, has left me with a wonderful and cherished memory. As I grieve my Aunt's passing, I would be remiss if I did not speak loudly the names of CNAs Marcy, Randy, Janis, Toya, Tyra, Charry, Christina & Dalia for their tireless care, nurses Travita, Kia, Beverly, Josie, & Tommy for being the watchdogs they are as well as Executive Director Dawn, Wellness Director Eve and Life Enrichment Director, Rene. If your name is not mentioned, please do not take it as a slight. If you gave care to my Aunt, I give you a huge "THANKS!". On September 14, 2025, my beloved "Aunt Juanita" arrived safely on the doorstep of the Room that was custom made for her, after a 106 year plus, journey. Just as Bickford was perfect for her, her final journey was perfect. She was clean, made comfortable, free pain of pain and peaceful. What a gift! Bickford, keep striving for that "HigherPath". Your staff will get you there if you truly invest in their well-being and stability.

My mother has lived at Bickford for more than a year. She has had some challenging medical problems. The staff has been very patient and helpful. She loves all the activities and told me the other day that she is content living here.