Fountainhead in Lauderdale, FL

Information last verified:

3900 North Ocean Drive, Lauderdale, FL 33308

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

4.4 from 59 reviews
5 stars
40
4 stars
12
3 stars
2
2 stars
2
1 stars
3

Overall Review of Fountainhead

Pros

  • pro The staff are very helpful.
  • pro It is highly recommended.
  • pro The private residences are nice.
  • pro It is the best place to vacation.
  • pro Janet Scimeca is incredibly helpful and attentive to residents' needs.
  • pro The building is beautiful and beachfront.
  • pro The wait staff are friendly, professional, and accommodating.
  • pro The visitors suites are spacious and clean.
  • pro The beach is just steps away.

Cons

  • pro The staff was very unprofessional, including Natasha, who ran from inquiries and failed to provide a start date.
  • pro The lobby was too empty.
  • pro Terrible customer service was reported.
  • pro There was frustration that some residents ignored beach closure rules.
  • pro The condo was described as older, though well kept.

Review

Fountainhead in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea is best suited for independent seniors who want a luxury beachside address with private residences and a self-contained, hospitality-forward environment. It appeals to those who value privacy, a refined living space, on-site dining, and social opportunities without surrendering autonomy. This is not a full-service care community; it does not provide 24/7 nursing oversight or memory-care specialization. Families should look elsewhere if daily hands-on assistance, medication management, or structured clinical programming will be needed, now or in the near term. For loved ones who anticipate remaining largely independent while preferring convenient access to residents, guests, and events, Fountainhead offers a compelling option.

The strongest positives center on location, ambiance, and hospitality. The beachfront setting is hard to beat, with easy access to sand and sea and a tranquil coastal vibe that supports a relaxed lifestyle. The building itself is described as elegant and well-kept, with a lobby that conveys a refined, quiet charm. Staff are widely regarded as helpful, and some individuals stand out for exceptional service; notably, the office manager’s contributions, Janet Scimeca, are repeatedly highlighted as attentive and efficient, a signal that leadership can make a real difference in everyday experiences. Visitor accommodations, spacious, clean suites, further extend the appeal for family members and guests, while on-site dining and well-run events add social texture to life at Fountainhead.

There are clear, recurring caveats that temper the glow. Some reviews flag inconsistent professionalism among staff and gaps in responsiveness, including specific complaints about a particular team member and delayed start-date communication. The sense of reliability varies by shift, and guest service can feel uneven at times. The lobby, while attractive, can also feel underutilized or too quiet, and there’s a wish for more greenery and livelier common spaces to offset a condo-like vibe. Several comments acknowledge quality but intimate that the overall experience hinges on management and day-to-day staffing. Taken together, the downsides aren’t existential flaws, but they do matter for families seeking predictable, seamless operations.

When these pros and cons are weighed, Fountainhead delivers meaningful offset for the right resident profile. The luxury surroundings, practical conveniences, and social infrastructure can translate into a high-quality daily experience for independent adults who prize privacy and a sophisticated atmosphere. The real differentiator is leadership and staff continuity: a congenial, responsive office manager and courteous on-site teams can convert a good environment into a great one, especially when residents or guests are often present for events or meals. For those who want a beach-centric lifestyle with curated social programming and minimal compromise on comfort, Fountainhead’s strengths substantially outweigh its service gaps, provided expectations are set and communication is clear.

The target alternative, however, is clear for anyone whose care needs may intensify or who requires a more vibrant, activity-filled community or dedicated clinical support. If daily assistance, medication administration, or memory-care services become a factor, an established assisted-living community with on-site clinicians will usually outperform Fountainhead’s condo-style model. For those craving a busier social calendar, more expansive fitness and wellness programming, or a guaranteed level of daily structure, shifting toward a traditional senior-living campus may deliver better long-term value. In practice, Fountainhead stands out for independence with a touch of resort-like living; alternatives win when care intensity, predictability, and formal programming become the priority.

For families evaluating Fountainhead, the prudent move is a targeted, information-rich visit. Tour the property with questions about move-in timelines, staff turnover, and the exact scope of included services. Inspect visitor suites in person, sample the dining options, and review a current activity calendar to gauge how often residents participate in programs. Request a transparent fees-and-services breakdown and ask how care coordination would work if health needs shift, even marginally. If the assessment aligns with a desire for a beach-adjacent, low-friction lifestyle with strong leadership and consistent hospitality, Fountainhead can be a very good fit. If the care equation includes reliable, on-site medical oversight and robust daily programming, shopping for alternatives will likely yield a better match.

Features

Housing

  • 6 resident community capacity 6 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Active Adult Communities (55+) Active Adult Communities (55+)Active Adult Communities provide seniors with opportunities for socialization, activities, and wellness programs tailored to their needs. These communities offer a sense of belonging and security while promoting an active and independent lifestyle for those aged 55 and older.

Amenities

  • 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

  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (8 miles away) Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (8 miles away)

Care Services

  • 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.
  • 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.

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.

Description

Fountainhead in Lauderdale, FL is an assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. With Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available, residents can stay connected with family and friends or engage in online activities at their leisure.

The community provides comprehensive care services including meal preparation and service, ensuring that residents receive delicious and nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs. Medication management is also provided to ensure that residents are taking their medications as prescribed, promoting their health and safety.

Fountainhead is conveniently located near various cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, and theaters. Residents have easy access to these amenities and services, allowing them to maintain an active and engaging lifestyle.

Whether it's enjoying a cup of coffee at one of the nearby cafes, exploring nature in one of the parks, or dining out at one of the nearby restaurants, residents have plenty of opportunities for socializing and entertainment. The close proximity to pharmacies and physicians ensures that residents have convenient access to healthcare resources when needed.

With its wide range of amenities and convenient location near various amenities and services, Fountainhead in Lauderdale, FL provides a comfortable and enriching environment for older adults looking for assisted living options.

Nearby Places of Interest

This area of Lauderdale, Florida offers convenient access to a variety of amenities and services that may appeal to seniors looking for a comfortable living environment. With several pharmacies located within a short distance, residents have easy access to medications and healthcare supplies. There are also a variety of dining options nearby, ranging from fast food chains like McDonald's to upscale establishments such as Shooters Waterfront. For those seeking spiritual fulfillment, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church is located just 1.4 miles away. Additionally, the proximity to parks like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and George English Park provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Transportation options are readily available with the Cypress Creek Station located 3.5 miles away, offering convenient access to public transportation. Overall, this area offers a blend of convenience, accessibility, and recreational opportunities that may make it an appealing choice for seniors looking to settle in Lauderdale, Florida.

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.4 miles)
  • Winn-Dixie (0.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.1 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (0.4 miles)
  • Shooters Waterfront (1.2 miles)
  • La Bamba III (1.5 miles)
  • McDonald's (1.8 miles)
  • Dune by Auberge Resorts Collection (1.8 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (1.9 miles)
  • Peter Pan Diner (2.4 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church (1.4 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC DINE-IN Coral Ridge 1 (1.5 miles)

Physicians

  • Midland Medical Center (2.3 miles)
  • Eye Centers Of South Florida (2.4 miles)
  • Care Resource (3.7 miles)
  • Rand Eye Institute (6.6 miles)
  • Pom MRI and Imaging Center (7.7 miles)

Parks

  • Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (3.1 miles)
  • George English Park (3.2 miles)
  • Holiday Park (4.3 miles)
  • Royal Palm Park (4.6 miles)
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Park (4.6 miles)
  • Central Broward Regional Park (6.9 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (3.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (5 miles)

Transportation

  • Cypress Creek Station (3.5 miles)
  • Brightline (5.1 miles)
  • Terminal 1 (8.1 miles)
  • Car Rental Center (8.1 miles)
  • Delta Air Lines Ticket Counter (8.2 miles)
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport- Arrivals Pickup (8.2 miles)
  • TSA Security Checkpoint (8.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Fountainhead?

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