Brookdale Oakwood

The first weekend which was the first two days my mother was at Brookdale her bed was urine soaked and they left her there. I should have transferred her at that very moment but of course Ellen said all the right things so I like an idiot I left her there. My mother was bedridden and was not a good candidate for Brookdale but they assured me she was. Ellen blocked got transfer from my mother to a facility that would have given her the care that she needed. If your loved one is ambulatory I think Brookdale's suitable spot but for someone who needs more care it's not the right place. The last week my mother was alive I cut a mat out of her hair. My mother required so little care but Brookdale couldn't even brush her hair. In addition to losing my mother I have to deal with the angst that I responsible for the decision putting into her place where she was neglected. I would have rate it this place zero stars if I could.

We moved our mom here from another local facility that was much larger. We loved Brookdale's homey environment; very intimate. Every staff member knew each resident. My mom received excellent care here. We loved that the residents were encouraged to come out of their apartments and participate in activities. The staff even escorted them to the dining room for meals. Our only regret is that we didn't move her sooner.

My dear mother moved from independent living at Lincoln Park to assisted living at Brookdale Oakwood because of health issues. She was happy here and remained as independent as she could be with the addition of health services as needed. The health care providers were completely up on her particular issues and were in touch with me quickly when something arose. Brookdale Oakwood feels more like a B&B than a "nursing home." There are no white, sterile nurses stations and no gossiping in groups by the aides. They hire big-hearted associates who knew my mother and loved her. In her two plus years here, there was an exception here and there - the food was sometimes not great - but the administration speaks directly with the resident to air any concerns. As a caregiver, I felt taken care of as well, always invited to stay for events or snacks or a meal. Sometimes that bag of popcorn made a difference in my whole day and attitude toward the stress of caregiving. Some institutions claim to be a "family," and I think Brookdale Oakwood does try and succeeds. Until her recent passing at age 95, she believed that this was a good place for her.

If you want your loved one to be well cared for Brookdale/Oakwood is the place to go for assisted living. They are family to me. My Mother is so happy there and she enjoys her life. I know she is loved.