2945-A Kalei Road, Honolulu, HI 96826
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The staff at Kalakaua Gardens is wonderful. The staff's kindness, compassion, and knowledge of Medicare are remarkable. The communication and guidance from the staff have been reassuring. Families feel confident entrusting their loved ones to Kalakaua Gardens because they are treated like family. The facility's reputation is deserved. The staff are friendly, professional, and available 24/7. The facility offers multiple levels of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. One director has a relative in the building, which is a sign of trust in the service. The building is clean, new, friendly, well-priced, and well-located. The location in Honolulu is great for family visits. The team, the environment, and the food are exceptional. Steve Nawahine, the General Manager, is a kind, warm, and strong leader. Residents are genuinely happy and enjoy the food and friendship.
They claimed the facility's primary concern is money. They described the front desk staff and security as interacting with people in an unacceptable manner. They recalled an incident where a staff member spoke in a condescending and unprofessional tone. They stated that residents are frequently ignored and left unattended, with nurses often in offices glued to computers. They warned not to be misled by the outward appearance and suggested exploring other options. They felt residents and families were not treated with dignity and respect.Kalakaua Gardens in Honolulu presents a picture of contrasts - astonishing warmth and support on one hand, paired with sharp warnings about how care and priorities are perceived on the other. Several visitors lend a heartfelt impression of a place where the staff's kindness, compassion, and Medicare know-how can be a lifeline when a loved one is navigating surgery, rehabilitation, and the broader journey of aging. For families far from home, the facility's ability to communicate clearly and guide them through complex decisions is repeatedly highlighted as a real comfort, and the sense of being treated like family shines through in many accounts.
On the most glowing notes, families describe staff as wonderfully caring and consistently available. One reviewer emphasizes the staff's "kindness, compassion and knowledge of all things Medicare," noting that the communication and guidance have been reassuring during a difficult time. The sentiment that the team treats you like family is echoed repeatedly, with comments about reassurance and steady, supportive presence that help families feel less isolated in a challenging situation. The daily experience of care - especially for residents who require higher levels of support - receives praise for its warmth, responsiveness, and the sense that someone is looking out for both residents and their families.
Several observations point to Kalakaua Gardens as a well-rounded community with structured levels of care. Reviewers describe it as a retirement home that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing - an arrangement that many find convenient when transitioning between needs. The building and grounds are depicted as clean, new, and well maintained, with a strong sense that the facility's layout supports a clear progression of care. The potential for family involvement during visits is highlighted, with the location itself being a notable plus for those traveling from different parts of Honolulu. Even those who visit for work or as part of discharge planning speak to a positive impression of the environment, the food, and the overall culture of the place.
Amid the praise, however, several reviewers voice serious concerns that deserve attention. A recurring theme is a perception that money or policy enforcement sometimes drives interactions more than resident-centered care. One account describes an unpleasant encounter with front-desk staff who spoke in a lecturing tone about internal policies, delivered in a way that felt condescending and unprofessional. This reaction underscores how critical tone and approach can color a family's overall view of a facility, even when other elements of care and facility quality are solid. The same reviewer notes that the intimidating or abrupt communication style stood out in contrast to the otherwise positive environment.
Other voices point to experiences where residents seemed to be left unattended or not fully engaged by staff. There are claims that nurses and aides spend significant time in offices or at computers, with residents appearing to be left on their own. In one case, the observer felt obliged to supervise and ensure safety for the residents during visits, describing a sense of being "on duty" herself to prevent falls or missed care. Such comments raise important questions about staffing dynamics, workflow, and the balance between administrative tasks and direct resident contact, which can strongly influence family confidence and resident well-being.
There are also vivid anecdotes that color the emotional landscape of Kalakaua Gardens. A few voices celebrate the facility as an excellent place where mom is thriving, with friendly, professional staff and surprisingly high-quality food. Others praise the staff-to-resident ratio, suggesting that a generous staffing level helps keep caregivers attentive and residents not rushed. And some reviewers praise leadership and staff stability, mentioning a particular general manager, Steve Nawahine, as a kind and warm leader whose presence is associated with genuinely happy residents who enjoy meals and social connections.
The multi-faceted nature of these reviews is perhaps most telling in the way they coexist - the same building lauded for its care and family-like atmosphere by some, while others flag experiences that feel misaligned with those values. The reports of strong leadership and a supportive, friendly climate contrast with moments of perceived disrespect, policy lecturing, or neglectful tendencies. In some remarks, reviewers point to broader concerns about how the facility markets itself versus how care is actually delivered, including references to prior online reviews being deleted and a sense that families must advocate loudly to ensure residents' needs are prioritized.
Taken together, Kalakaua Gardens emerges as a place of genuine warmth and serious potential, underpinned by a capable array of services and a location that makes family involvement convenient. For some families, the environment feels like a true extension of home: compassionate staff, accessible administrators, and quality food that helps residents feel comfortable. For others, the daily reality at the front desk or in certain caregiving moments prompts caution and a clear call to thoroughly evaluate personal needs, visit multiple times, and discuss expectations directly with management before making a decision.
For anyone considering Kalakaua Gardens, the overarching message is to weigh both sides of the equation: the expansive care options, the evident dedication of many staff members, and the comfort of a family-like approach against concerns about communication tone, attentiveness in certain interactions, and the consistency of hands-on care in everyday moments. The presence of a respected leader in management and the ability to provide comprehensive care across levels are strong positives, but prospective families should also seek out firsthand experiences, speak with current residents and families, and assess how well the facility's practices align with their own expectations for dignity, respect, and responsive caregiving. In the end, Kalakaua Gardens can be a comforting, supportive home for many, while also serving as a reminder that strong, respectful communication and consistently attentive care are essential to truly making a community feel like family.
5 resident community capacity
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.
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 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 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.
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
Honolulu International (7 miles away)
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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. 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 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. 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 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.Waialae Senior Living 2 is an assisted living community located in the beautiful city of Honolulu, HI. Our community offers a warm and welcoming environment for seniors looking for a comfortable and convenient place to call home.
At Waialae Senior Living 2, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch amenities to enhance our residents' everyday lives. Our dining room offers delicious meals prepared by our skilled culinary team, ensuring that residents receive nutritious and tasty meals each day. The community is fully furnished, allowing residents to settle in quickly and comfortably. We also have a lovely garden where residents can relax and enjoy nature.
Housekeeping services are provided to ensure that our residents have a clean and tidy living space at all times. For those who require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or transfers, our compassionate staff is available to provide the necessary support. We also offer coordination with health care providers to ensure that all medical needs are met.
For individuals with specific dietary restrictions, we offer special meal options tailored to their needs. Additionally, our team assists with medication management for those who require it.
Transportation arrangements for medical appointments as well as transportation to doctors' appointments are available for added convenience.
We believe in promoting an active and engaging lifestyle for our residents. Therefore, we provide a variety of scheduled daily activities to cater to different interests and preferences.
Located in the vicinity of numerous cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, and hospitals provides easy access to various amenities and services nearby.
At Waialae Senior Living 2 in Honolulu, HI, we strive to create an enriching and supportive community where seniors can thrive while receiving the assistance they need.
Waialae Senior Living 2 is located at 2945-A Kalei Road, Honolulu, HI 96826 in Honolulu County, Hawaii
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Comprehensive Insights into Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Their Assessment
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are fundamental tasks vital for an individual's independence, particularly in older adults over 85, and include functions like bathing and dressing; assessing ADLs alongside Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) helps determine the level of required assistance due to age-related health challenges. Tailored support plans, involving family and community resources, are essential for maintaining dignity and autonomy in assisted living environments.
Medicare Coverage for Assisted Living: An In-Depth Exploration
Medicare does not cover assisted living costs, as it focuses on acute medical needs and short-term care, with exceptions for certain medically necessary services like physical therapy. Individuals must explore other options such as Medicaid, veterans' benefits, or long-term care insurance to manage these expenses effectively.
Choosing the Right Senior Care: A Detailed Exploration of Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
Choosing between assisted living and nursing homes involves evaluating emotional and financial factors, with assisted living offering independence and support for daily activities at a lower cost, while nursing homes provide intensive medical care for individuals with significant health needs. The decision is influenced by personal preferences, health status, cognitive function, and varying Medicaid coverage across states.
