Songbird In The Country in Salinas, CA

Information last verified:

15961 Toro Hills Avenue, Salinas, CA 93908

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

4.4 from 7 reviews
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Overall Review of Songbird In The Country

Pros

  • pro The home is a beautiful house on a large piece of property, and it feels peaceful.
  • pro The owners and the staff are wonderful, caring people.
  • pro The care there is organized, professional, and attentive.
  • pro The resident is happy there, content, and has not a care in the world.
  • pro The resident enjoys the meals, socializing with other residents, sitting on the porch, and playing the piano.
  • pro The singalong sessions with Matt, Karie, and their family are enjoyed by the residents.
  • pro The facility provides peace of mind to families and ensures safety and excellent care.
  • pro The Mazerik family and Carmelo Park staff have created as much of a home as possible for their residents.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer states they would not place a loved one in the owners' care.
  • pro The reviewer describes the owners as selfish and condescending, showing complete disregard for others.
  • pro The reviewer asserts there are no services available for people like their son who require full-time support.
  • pro The reviewer says the encounter with the owners was appalling and left them questioning how they remain in business.
  • pro The reviewer notes there is nothing positive to say about the experience and suggests others may have a better experience.
  • pro The reviewer notes that Covid-related restrictions were a real blow, hindering in-person visits.

Review

Songbird In The Country in Salinas is best suited for seniors who prize a warm, home-like atmosphere and a truly intimate, neighborhood-sized setting. It works well for families that value calm, predictable routines, and care delivered with personal attention rather than clinical intensity. Residents who enjoy shared meals, porch time, music, and small-group social moments tend to thrive here, supported by staff who know them by name and anticipate needs with a practiced ease. This is not a big campus with a hospital vibe; it is a single-family-style home on a generous property. Those needing high-level medical oversight, complex skilled care, or rigid perimeter security should consider alternatives that scale to those requirements.

The strongest positives center on environment and relationships. The layout and grounds create an immediate sense of peace, and the staff’s warmth and steadiness consistently surface in reviews. Care is described as organized, professional, and attentively delivered, with residents enjoying well-prepared meals and opportunities to socialize, sing, and engage in meaningful activities like piano time and group gatherings. The long-tenured team and leadership by Matt and Karie foster a strong sense of continuity; families repeatedly note how staff care for residents as if they were part of a close-knit circle, not just clients. The communal feel, shared celebrations, familiar faces, and responsive caregivers, translates into genuine peace of mind for families.

However, the picture is not monolithic. One notably negative review centers on a confrontation with the owners, painting a portrait of selfishness and condescension that clashes with the prevailing narrative of warmth. While this is clearly an outlier in a set of otherwise glowing remarks, it cannot be ignored. The takeaway is not to discount the positive experiences described by others, but to approach initial interactions with a clear sense of boundaries and expectations, and to observe how management handles requests, conflicts, and emergencies. In practice, most families report a culture of care and cooperation that makes this concern feel like an anomaly rather than a pattern.

Dementia and wandering risk emerge as a meaningful situational factor in the family’s decision process. A family dealing with wandering or higher cognitive needs found value in Carmelo Park’s greater perimeter controls and staff coverage, and ultimately relocated when more supervision seemed warranted. This history matters: Songbird delivers a genuinely homey vibe and can manage daily living needs effectively for many residents, but for those with advanced wandering tendencies or escalating behavioral challenges, a more secure setting with higher staff-to-resident ratios may be necessary. The facility’s strength, its intimate scale and engaged caregiving, also becomes its potential limitation for certain conditions.

Cost, value, and the overall caregiving equation balance in favor of the Songbird model for many families. Several reviews note the setting is well-priced relative to alternatives and that the quality of care and the ambiance justify the investment. The intimate size and staff longevity contribute to a sense of value that goes beyond the price tag, delivering reliable familiarity and efficient, personalized care. Prospective residents should still benchmark against nearby options with more formalized security measures or broader programming, but the differential advantage here lies in the depth of daily human connection and the feeling of a true home rather than a clinical facility.

In the end, Songbird In The Country is a practical, solid choice for families prioritizing a warm, communal home atmosphere, consistent caregiver relationships, and hands-on attention to daily living. It is less suitable for those requiring high-acuity medical oversight, aggressive safety measures, or strict wandering containment. For wander-risk scenarios or higher care needs, alternatives such as Carmelo Park or Carmelo Care Homes offer greater perimeter security and staffing intensity. For families who value authenticity, connection, and a serene, family-like everyday life, Songbird delivers, with due diligence in the initial discussions and visits to confirm alignment with the loved one’s evolving needs. Plan a thorough visit, query management directly, and observe resident-staff interactions to confirm that the care philosophy matches family expectations.

Features

Housing

  • 12 resident community capacity 12 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.

Amenities

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 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.
  • 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.
  • 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

  • Monterey Peninsula (8 miles away) Monterey Peninsula (8 miles away)

Care Services

  • 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.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • 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.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

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.
  • 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

Songbird In The Country is a beautiful assisted living community located in Salinas, CA. Our residents enjoy a peaceful and serene atmosphere surrounded by the scenic beauty of the countryside.

Our community offers a range of amenities to ensure our residents have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Our fully furnished accommodations provide all the comforts of home, and our housekeeping services ensure that the living spaces are always clean and tidy. Residents can take advantage of our spacious outdoor areas and garden to relax and enjoy nature. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet and telephone services are also available to keep residents connected with their loved ones.

At Songbird In The Country, we prioritize the well-being of our residents by providing comprehensive care services. Our staff is trained to assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers, to ensure that our residents can maintain their independence. We also coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure seamless communication and care coordination for our residents. For those with specific dietary needs, we offer diabetes diets and special dietary restrictions are taken into consideration for all meals prepared by our experienced team.

Engaging in daily activities is an essential part of senior living, which is why we schedule a variety of activities for our residents to participate in. These activities not only promote physical health but also provide opportunities for social interaction and mental stimulation.

Convenience is key at Songbird In The Country as we are located near various amenities. With 5 pharmacies nearby, residents can easily access their medication needs. Moreover, there are 13 physicians nearby who can provide medical assistance when needed. Additionally, there are multiple restaurants offering diverse dining options within close proximity to satisfy any culinary cravings. For spiritual needs, there's a place of worship situated nearby where residents can practice their faith if desired. And finally, in case of emergencies or specialized medical care requirements, there are three hospitals in close vicinity ensuring quick access to healthcare facilities.

At Songbird In The Country, we strive to provide a warm and caring environment for our residents. With our exceptional amenities, comprehensive care services, and convenient location near various amenities, our community is an ideal place for seniors to call home.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • Wienerschnitzel (3.9 miles)
  • Elli's Great American Restaurant (4 miles)
  • Alvarado Street Brewery (4.7 miles)
  • Salinas City BBQ (5.5 miles)
  • In-N-Out Burger (5.9 miles)
  • Jack In The Box (6.4 miles)
  • Sonic Drive-In (6.4 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Star Care Pharmacy (4 miles)
  • Star Pharmacy & Gifts (4 miles)
  • Sherman's Apothecary Pharmacy (4.1 miles)
  • Longs Drugs (4.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (4.2 miles)
  • AllCare Pharmacy (5.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5.6 miles)

Physicians

  • Diabetes Care Center (4 miles)
  • Wetzel Matthew - Matthew Wetzel, DDS (4.2 miles)
  • Central Coast Cardiology (4.5 miles)
  • Valley Hearing Center (4.5 miles)
  • Athena Medical Group (4.5 miles)
  • Salinas Valley Orthopedics & Sports Medicine (4.6 miles)
  • Acacia Family Medical Group (4.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (4.6 miles)
  • Evergreen At Salinas (4.7 miles)
  • Salinas Surgery Center (4.7 miles)
  • Dr Mary Garren, MD (6.6 miles)
  • Community Hospital Of The Monterey Peninsula (7 miles)
  • Laboratory of Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (8.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Church of the Good Shepherd (4.8 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (5.4 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (8 miles)
  • Starbucks (8.2 miles)
  • Panera Bread (8.2 miles)
  • Red's Donuts (8.3 miles)

Transportation

  • Amtrak (5.5 miles)

Parks

  • Tatum's Garden Fully Inclusive Accessible Playground (6.4 miles)
  • El Dorado Park (7.8 miles)
  • Fort Ord Dunes State Park (8.2 miles)

Theaters

  • Century Marina And Xd (7.6 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Songbird In The Country?

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