Montecedro

2212 El Molino, Altadena, CA 91001

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

3.4 from 24 reviews
5 stars
13
4 stars
1
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 stars
8

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Respite Care

Overall Review of Montecedro

Pros

  • pro The facility is neat, clean, organized, and safe.
  • pro Monte Cedro is a wonderful senior community with friendly staff and a great environment for seniors.
  • pro The staff are A+ without exception.
  • pro Monte Cedro is an upscale retirement community with more than 200 residents in four-story independent living units.
  • pro First responders are the real heroes in emergencies.
  • pro Residents cannot wait to return.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer claimed entrance fees are around half a million dollars and up.
  • pro The reviewer said that harassing vulnerable seniors and commenting on residents' finances is unacceptable and inflammatory.
  • pro The reviewer criticized news coverage as devastating and sensationalized for publicity.
  • pro The reviewer asserted there were no evacuation warnings or orders west of Altadena for 10 hours, calling the evacuation unnecessary.
  • pro The reviewer argued that the facility conducted an emergency evacuation but did not evacuate all residents.
  • pro The reviewer warned against bringing anyone to the place and stated that staff should be fined or fired for leaving a 100-year-old lady behind during the evacuation.
  • pro The reviewer claimed the facility deserves to be shut down for leaving people in the building after evacuation and for lacking a proper headcount.
  • pro The reviewer described memory care and activities staff as unfriendly.
  • pro The reviewer disparaged some drivers as dumb.

Review

MonteCedro, a four-story retirement community in Altadena, emerges in these reviews as a place that many find appealing for its neat, clean, and organized environment, as well as for its friendly staff and overall sense of safety. Descriptions from several residents highlight a well-kept campus, attractive exterior, and a setting that feels both vibrant and welcoming for an aging population. With more than 200 residents living in independent units, the property is repeatedly framed as an upscale option in a desirable area, offering two dining spaces and various levels of care. The overall tone from many commenters is that MonteCedro is a serious, quality-minded community with strong features that residents value, even as the discourse around it becomes complicated by events, opinions, and competing narratives.

Nevertheless, the conversation surrounding MonteCedro is far from uniformly praising. One reviewer known as happysocal points to the enclave's financial aspect in a way that many find jarring: "Entrance fees for this place are around a half mil and up." This remark touches a broader tension echoed by others who worry about the optics and real implications of wealth in senior living. In that vein, several voices insist that comments about residents' financial status are inappropriate and potentially harmful, especially when they intersect with real estate markets in the surrounding area. The critiques suggest that sensational or personalizing commentary about money has no place in discussions that should center on safety, care, and community well-being.

A central thread in the discourse is how MonteCedro's community faced the Eaton Fire amid two concurrent disasters: a wildfire and hurricane-force winds that roared through the region. Several reviews urge readers to consider the broader tragedy affecting Altadena - the residents, their families, staff, first responders, and local officials who were all navigating chaos with limited resources. In this context, some reviewers lean on guidance from professional associations, noting that shelter-in-place (SIP) is a protective action that may be favored when evacuation is deemed unsafe or unnecessary. The discussion includes a claim that evacuation warnings west of Altadena, including near MonteCedro, were not issued for a significant period, complicating judgments about whether an evacuation was required or prudent. Supporters emphasize the building's Type 1 construction and the presence of transportation assistance and escort from first responders, arguing these design and safety features provided time and resources to manage the crisis as it unfolded.

Amid the heated debates, there are pointed criticisms about how evacuation was handled. Some reviewers contend that an emergency evacuation was conducted, yet not all residents were evacuated, and this has led to accusations of mismanagement. There is particular concern raised about the handling of vulnerable residents, including a claim that staff left behind a 100-year-old woman, fueling calls for accountability and a demand to identify the corporate ownership of MonteCedro so families can make informed decisions for their loved ones. Other comments focus on the memory care and activities staff, describing them as unfriendly, alongside complaints about transportation drivers. The tone in these passages is urgent and accusatory, driven by fear for residents' safety during a crisis where communication, evacuation protocols, and record-keeping were put to the test.

Amid these accusations, there are strong counterpoints from residents who defend MonteCedro and its team. One resident who has lived there since 2019 asserts that the staff are excellent - "A+ without exception" - and that the evacuation notification was issued in a timely fashion within the local area. This voice emphasizes the collaboration among staff, the fire department, and sheriffs, portraying the situation as chaotic but managed with skill and dedication under pressure. The defender also notes that an investigation is underway, and that the facts show every resident of MonteCedro was safe, describing the place as "stellar" and worth returning to. The sentiment is that premature blame helps no one and that recognizing hard-working responders and care staff is essential in the aftermath of a disaster.

Within the same debate, other reviewers offer starkly different perspectives that emphasize disappointment and anger. They describe scenarios in which calls to "shut down" the facility were made, and they insist that some residents were left behind or inadequately accounted for during evacuations. There are repeated complaints about the memory care and activities staff, and accusations of unfriendly behavior, as well as negative remarks about transportation drivers. The mixed tone culminates in a striking contrast: while some praise the facility's aesthetic appeal and the social opportunities (one reviewer even mentioning dancing in a gown), others call MonteCedro out for failures in crisis response and for what they see as a lack of regard for vulnerable residents.

The collection of comments also provides a snapshot of the facility's described structure and community dynamics. MonteCedro is portrayed as an upscale option with four stories of independent living, offering a nonprofit governance model that, in some reviewers' eyes, represents forward-thinking management in a competitive market. Attendees note the physical beauty of the campus, the existence of two dining areas, and a robust, albeit scrutinized, sense of community. The references to aerial photos being outdated and to the need for prospective residents to visit with appointments suggest a desire for transparency and thorough first-hand evaluation before making any commitments.

Taken together, the reviews present a mosaic of admiration, doubt, and unresolved questions. MonteCedro emerges as a highly regarded, well-maintained community with strong staff and an appealing living environment, but it is also a site of controversy due to perceptions of evacuation missteps during a severe regional crisis, accountability concerns, and the ethical considerations surrounding wealth in senior living. The ongoing investigation and the discussions about ownership underscore a broader call for clarity and accountability, especially as families weigh the safety, care quality, and long-term viability of placing their loved ones in a community that can be as supportive as it is scrutinized. In the end, MonteCedro appears to be a place of significant strengths tempered by serious questions that residents and prospective residents will want to examine carefully.

Features

Housing

  • 300 resident community capacity 300 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.
  • Respite Care Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.

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 patio Outdoor patioOutdoor patios are essential for seniors as they provide a safe and peaceful space for them to enjoy the outdoors, socialize with friends and family, engage in physical activity, and soak up natural sunlight which promotes overall well-being and mental health.
  • 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

  • Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena (13 miles away) Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena (13 miles away)
  • Los Angeles International (23 miles away) Los Angeles International (23 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.

Care Services

  • 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.
  • 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

Montecedro in Altadena, CA is an assisted living community that offers respite care services for seniors. The community provides a range of amenities to ensure comfort and convenience for its residents. These amenities include a beauty salon, cable or satellite TV in every room, community-operated transportation for outings and errands, a computer center, a dining room with restaurant-style dining, a fitness room for exercise and wellness activities, fully furnished accommodations, a gaming room for recreation, a garden area for outdoor relaxation, housekeeping services, kitchenettes in each unit, move-in coordination assistance, an outdoor patio and space for enjoying the outdoors, private bathrooms for privacy and convenience, a small library for reading and quiet time, telephone service in each room, transportation arrangement services (non-medical), a wellness center for health monitoring and support, as well as Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access throughout the community.

In terms of care services offered at Montecedro, residents benefit from 24-hour supervision to ensure their safety and well-being. Trained staff members provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing. The community also offers assistance with transfers to help residents move around safely. For those with special dietary needs like diabetes diet or other restrictions, the community provides meal preparation and service tailored to meet these needs. Medication management services are also available to help residents stay on top of their medication schedule.

Montecedro is committed to providing engaging activities to promote socialization and overall well-being among its residents. Residents can enjoy concierge services to assist with any requests or needs they may have. Fitness programs are offered to encourage physical activity and maintain good health. Scheduled daily activities catered towards various interests keep residents entertained and engaged. Planned day trips allow residents to explore nearby attractions while resident-run activities provide opportunities for individuals to take charge of their own experiences.

Additionally, Montecedro boasts convenient proximity to amenities in the surrounding area. There are two cafes, four parks, eleven pharmacies, seven restaurants, two places of worship, and one hospital located nearby.

Overall, Montecedro in Altadena, CA is an assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to support the well-being and quality of life for seniors in need of respite care.

Nearby Places of Interest

Cafes

  • Lavender & Honey Espresso Bar (1.2 miles)
  • Panera Bread (4 miles)
  • Charlie's Coffee House (5.4 miles)
  • Bopomofo Cafe (5.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.9 miles)
  • Panera Bread (6.7 miles)
  • Panera Bread (7.6 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (1.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • Rite Aid (2.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (3 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.5 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (1.6 miles)
  • Urth CaffĂ©-Pasadena (2.6 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (2.8 miles)
  • McDonald's (3.4 miles)
  • McDonald's (4.5 miles)
  • El Pollo Loco (4.5 miles)
  • Taco Bell (4.5 miles)

Parks

  • Hahamongna Watershed Park (2.5 miles)
  • Brookside Park (2.8 miles)
  • Lacy Park (4.4 miles)
  • Garfield Park (4.8 miles)
  • Arroyo Seco Park (5.1 miles)
  • Alhambra Park (6 miles)
  • Arcadia County Park (6.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Huntington Memorial Hospital Nicu (3.5 miles)
  • Glendale Adventist Medical Center (5.9 miles)
  • Medical 2 unit (6 miles)
  • Methodist Hospital of Southern California (6.3 miles)

Places of Worship

  • San Marino Community Church Nursery School (4.8 miles)
  • Saint Rita's Catholic Church (4.8 miles)
  • Arcadia Chinese Baptist Church (6.8 miles)
  • First Evangelical Church Arcadia (7.3 miles)

Theaters

  • 0206 Amc Bar Santa Ani (5.9 miles)
  • AMC The Americana at Brand 18 (7.6 miles)

Physicians

  • Santa Anita Medical Plaza (6.2 miles)
  • Doheny Eye Center (6.2 miles)
  • Healthcare Partners Medical Group (7.2 miles)

Transportation

  • Metro - Monrovia Station (8.3 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Montecedro?

Nearby Communities

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