MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Mountain Shadows

Pros

• The facility at MorningStar Mountain Shadows is described as beautiful, warm, and welcoming, creating a home-like atmosphere for residents.
• Staff members are consistently praised for their caring, attentive, and professional demeanor, making residents feel valued and part of a close-knit community.
• Residents appear happy and engaged in activities, reflecting the positive environment fostered by the care team.
• Family members express gratitude for the compassionate care provided to their loved ones, noting significant improvements in their well-being.
• The quality of food served is highlighted as impressive and akin to that of a quality restaurant, enhancing the dining experience for residents.
• Volunteers commend the intimate and warm environment of the community, feeling fulfilled in their efforts to help those facing memory loss.
• Activities offered at MorningStar are varied and enjoyable, contributing to residents' happiness and social engagement.
• The professionalism of the staff ensures that all resident needs are met effectively and compassionately.

Cons

• The community was a hard sell, with only one staff member present in the memory care unit during the visit, and maintenance issues such as unkempt rooms and dirty carpet were noted.
• There are concerns about the quality of food, with claims that it does not meet expectations based on advertised standards, and complaints about frozen meals that lack freshness or proper preparation.
• Some families felt misled by advertising regarding the quality of service and meals provided for residents with specific dietary needs.
• Administrative processes are slow, causing frustration for family members who require timely assistance.
• While overall staff interaction is positive, some visitors mentioned challenges in communication regarding their loved ones' care.

Review

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows has garnered a mix of reviews reflecting both the positive experiences and challenges faced by residents and their families in this assisted living facility. Many visitors have praised the community for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, beautiful facilities, and dedicated staff. At the heart of these commendations is the genuine care exhibited by personnel who work diligently to provide high-quality support to residents, especially those dealing with conditions such as Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

Several reviewers highlighted how impressed they were with the professionalism and approachability of the staff. The ability for employees to remember residents’ names and interact with them compassionately contributes significantly to creating a homelike environment that alleviates some of the stresses surrounding elder care. One family member noted that even during such a challenging period as her mother’s transition into memory care, MorningStar made her feel cared for like family. Individualized attention seemed plentiful in this smaller community setting compared to larger facilities, allowing for meaningful connections between staff and residents.

However, despite these praises, there were notable criticisms regarding maintenance issues within the facility itself. A visitor mentioned concerns about cleanliness in common areas and the overall upkeep of rooms—specifically referencing unsatisfactory carpet conditions—which detracted from their impression of what could otherwise be considered a lovely environment. This juxtaposition between excellent personal care and physical upkeep presents a complex picture of life at MorningStar; while many families celebrate outstanding support from caregivers, infrastructural issues appear to pose challenges that require attention.

The food service at MorningStar has also received mixed feedback. Some reviews extolled the quality of meals prepared on-site, likening them to offerings from quality restaurants rather than typical institutional cuisine; residents seemed content during mealtimes as well. In contrast, others expressed disappointment regarding dietary provisions for those requiring special diets due to conditions like diabetes or swallowing difficulties. Families felt misled by marketing promises surrounding meal quality, which contributed to frustration when trying to ensure their loved ones received proper nutrition tailored to their needs.

On a different note, many reviewers were enthusiastic about activities offered at MorningStar—ranging from movie nights and musical performances to craft sessions—which added vibrancy to daily life within the facility. This engagement was seen as essential by families seeking an enriching environment for their loved ones where stimulation is prioritized alongside safety and wellbeing. Such programs fostered socialization among residents, giving everyone more opportunities to connect through shared experiences.

Overall assessments highlight that while there may be areas where improvement is needed—particularly concerning maintenance practices—the underlying ethos at MorningStar appears rooted in sincere compassion and person-centered care philosophies. Families often describe visiting staff members as not only attentive but also willing collaborators when it comes time to communicate specific concerns or make adjustments based on individual needs. For many seeking respite or assisted living arrangements for elderly relatives experiencing cognitive decline or other health issues, these qualities remain pivotal factors in choosing MorningStar at Mountain Shadows as their preferred option amidst an array of alternatives available in senior care.

This part of Colorado Springs, Colorado offers a variety of amenities and services that cater to the needs of seniors looking for a comfortable and convenient living environment. The area is surrounded by beautiful parks such as Pinon Valley Park, Ute Valley Park, and Garden of the Gods, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. There are also numerous dining options nearby, including Chipotle Mexican Grill, Black Bear Diner, and Chick-Fil-A, ensuring easy access to delicious meals. In terms of healthcare, there are several pharmacies and medical facilities in close proximity, such as Walgreens and UCHealth Orthopedics Clinic Grandview. Additionally, transportation options are available through U-Haul Moving & Storage for added convenience. Places of worship like Calvary Worship Center and Sacred Heart Catholic Church are also easily accessible for those seeking spiritual fulfillment. Overall, this neighborhood provides a safe and welcoming environment for seniors to enjoy their golden years with peace of mind.

Parks

• Pinon Valley Park (0.2 miles)
• Ute Valley Park (0.7 miles)
• Ute Valley Park (1.1 miles)
• Garden of the Gods (2.2 miles)
• Garden Of The Gods Main Parking Lot (2.2 miles)
• Siamese Twins (3.1 miles)
• Cave of the Winds (4 miles)

Restaurants

• Chipotle Mexican Grill (1.1 miles)
• Black Bear Diner Colorado Springs - Garden of the Gods (1.1 miles)
• Wendy's (1.7 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (1.8 miles)
• Village Inn (1.8 miles)
• The Juicy Seafood (1.9 miles)
• McDonald's (2 miles)

Pharmacies

• Pharmerica (1.1 miles)
• Walgreens (1.3 miles)
• Walgreens (1.3 miles)
• Walgreens (3.4 miles)
• Penrose Main & In Patient Phrm (3.8 miles)
• Strawberry Fields (3.8 miles)
• Walgreens (4 miles)

Physicians

• Medical Alternatives Clinics (2.1 miles)
• Mountain View Medical Group At Centennial (2.2 miles)
• Dr. S. Kent Olvey, MD (2.2 miles)
• Rockrimmon Vision Source (2.2 miles)
• Colorado Springs Imaging (2.2 miles)
• UCHealth Orthopedics Clinic Grandview (2.5 miles)
• Kluk, Augusta Uchealth Orthopedics Clinic Grandview (2.5 miles)

Cafes

• Panera Bread (2.4 miles)
• Starbucks (3.9 miles)
• Adam's Mountain Cafe (3.9 miles)
• Panera Bread (3.9 miles)
• Dutch Bros Coffee (4.1 miles)
• Jives Coffee Lounge (4.4 miles)
• Red Dog Coffee (4.7 miles)

Hospitals

• UCHealth Emergency Care - Grandview Hospital (2.5 miles)
• Strawberry Fields Medical Dispensary (3.8 miles)
• V A Clinic (4.2 miles)
• Surgical Center At Premier (4.3 miles)
• Audubon Ambulatory Surgery Center (4.5 miles)

Transportation

• U-Haul Moving & Storage (3 miles)

Places of Worship

• Calvary Worship Center (3.7 miles)
• Sacred Heart Catholic Church (4.6 miles)