726 Community Dr, Belleville, IL 62223
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Benedictine Living Community is described as warm, caring, and welcoming, with staff who ensure residents feel at home. Staff know residents by name and treat them like family, fostering a giant extended community. The consistency and quality of care across independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing are stellar. The dining staff show consideration to residents' needs, and meals are fresh, inventive, and well-prepared. The grounds are gorgeous, tranquil, and well-maintained, offering a resort-like atmosphere. There is a rich program of activities, outings, and daily mass that enhance daily life. The staff are friendly, professional, and genuinely kind, creating a warm, kinship-filled environment. Families report peace of mind seeing loved ones safe, engaged, and well cared-for.
They note the presence of mold concerns and water damage under patches, questioning what is being done to prevent further issues. They describe meals as disappointing, with breaded fish and chicken, mushy vegetables, and a limited rotation. They express concern about the age of the buildings, noting deterioration and wondering whether those areas will be redone or left to decline. They criticize the facility as old and in need of renovation, with no cold running water in the bathroom, chronic staffing shortages, especially on weekends, and insufficient personal care. They report poor supervision and communication among staff, describing a lackadaisical environment and unaddressed complaints. They mention being owed an eight-day refund after a relative's death, calling the handling unprofessional and very disappointing.The Esquiline is best suited for seniors who want a warm, community-focused Life Plan Community where independent living sits alongside assisted living and skilled nursing on a single, intimate campus. It fits residents who value personal connections over corporate polish, and who appreciate a setting anchored by Benedictine hospitality and the Shrine campus atmosphere. Daily life centers on relationships: staff who greet residents by name, consistent care across levels, and robust social programming that feels more like a neighborhood of friends than a managed complex. The grounds are tranquil with nature views, and the location supports a quiet, purposeful aging experience rooted in a spiritual cadence that many families find comforting.
Those considering alternatives should recognize this community's strengths come with trade-offs. If a ultra-modern architectural vibe, resort-style amenities, or expansive, contemporary spaces are non-negotiable, other campuses may suit better. For residents who require heavy memory care or aggressive, 24/7 rehabilitation services, dedicated units elsewhere could be a better fit. The Benedictine affiliation and faith-centered environment may not align with every family's values. Finally, while several comparisons highlight affordability, families must vet pricing carefully - especially long-term care costs and transitions - to ensure total cost clarity and predictability.
The strongest selling points are the people and the culture. Reviews consistently emphasize staff who know residents by name, respond promptly, and involve families in decision-making. The setting on the Shrine campus adds beauty, safety, and a sense of peace, while well-maintained grounds and a steady schedule of activities keep life engaging. The dining program is repeatedly praised for freshness and thoughtfulness, with kitchen staff that accommodate preferences. Most importantly, the Esquiline delivers true aging-in-place through its continuum of care: residents can move from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing without relocating, preserving friendships, routines, and the sense of belonging that sustains well-being.
The flip side points to an aging physical plant and occasional operational hiccups. Some reviewers note that parts of the infrastructure feel dated and require ongoing maintenance, with occasional odors, water-related concerns, or mildew risks mentioned in critiques. Communication gaps and scheduling issues appear at times, and one family cited a delayed refund after a resident's death - a reminder that financial matters demand proactive, transparent handling. Weekend staffing can feel lean in certain critiques, which can translate into perceived gaps in personal care. These concerns are meaningful, but they tend to be manageable through open dialogue with leadership and careful onsite verification during a visit.
Yet the positives largely offset the drawbacks for those who lean into the community's strengths. The Esquiline's core value is the people: a culture of kindness, dignity, and consistent, family-facing communication builds trust and reduces stress for both residents and families. The on-site continuum of care, combined with rich programming and ease of access to nature, creates a compelling life-plan that stabilizes routines and social connections even as care needs evolve. The spiritual life - daily Mass and chapel access - offers rhythm and purpose, sustaining activity and engagement that many larger facilities struggle to preserve. In short, the combination of relationships, purpose-built care pathways, and a serene setting often outpaces the negatives.
Bottom-line guidance for families evaluating The Esquiline: plan a comprehensive visit that includes meals, time with frontline caregivers, and a walk through independent and assisted spaces to gauge noise, pace, cleanliness, and resident interactions. Ask for a clear, written picture of the cost structure, especially around transitions between levels of care, and confirm how weekend coverage and response times are managed. If a newer building, secular environment, or highly specialized memory-care program is non-negotiable, explore alternatives. For those seeking a warm, anchored, faith-informed community that genuinely ages in place with a built-in support network, The Esquiline offers practical peace of mind, strong care continuity, and a living environment where everyday life feels meaningful and well supported.
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.
Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Lambert-St Louis International (19 miles away)
Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities. Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life. Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.The Esquiline in Belleville, IL is an independent living community that provides a comfortable and enriching environment for seniors. Located in the charming town of Belleville, residents can enjoy a peaceful lifestyle while having access to various amenities and services.
For those seeking spiritual fulfillment, devotional services off-site are available, allowing residents to connect with their faith in a supportive setting. The indoor common areas provide opportunities for socialization and relaxation, where residents can engage in conversations or simply unwind with a good book.
The Esquiline also offers specialized care for individuals with diabetes, ensuring that their unique needs are met with dedicated assistance and support. This includes monitoring blood sugar levels, managing medications, and promoting healthy habits to maintain overall well-being.
To encourage an active lifestyle and engagement within the community, devotional activities offsite are organized. These outings provide an opportunity for residents to explore their interests, connect with others who share similar beliefs, and foster a sense of belonging.
Convenience is key at The Esquiline as it is surrounded by essential establishments such as pharmacies and physicians. With 8 pharmacies and 8 physicians nearby, residents have easy access to healthcare professionals and medication supplies. Additionally, there are plenty of restaurant options in close proximity for dining out experiences or ordering takeout meals.
Transportation services are available nearby, making it convenient for residents to travel within the area or participate in local events. Places of worship are also located nearby, offering spiritual support and creating opportunities for further community involvement.
In case of emergencies or medical assistance needs, two hospitals can be found near The Esquiline. This ensures that residents will receive prompt care if required.
Overall, The Esquiline offers a vibrant and supportive environment where seniors can maintain an independent lifestyle while having access to essential care services and amenities that enhance their overall quality of life.
The Esquiline is located at 726 Community Dr, Belleville, IL 62223 in St. Clair County, Illinois
A Living Angel
Belleville, IL
Excellent access to parks, medical resources, dining, and worship nearby.
Helia Healthcare of Belleville
Belleville, IL
Excellent healthcare access and transport options.
Bria Of Cahokia
Cahokia, IL
Extensive amenities and 24/7 care.
Golden Years Adult Support Ctr
Belleville, IL
Engaging day program with social activities and attentive staff.
Memorial Care Center
Belleville, IL
Friendly staff, clean facility, spacious rooms and engaging activities.
Memorial Care Center- Belleville Mem Hosp
Belleville, IL
Caring staff and strong caregiver-resident relationships.
Cambridge House Of Swansea
Swansea, IL
Friendly staff, clean environment, and an active, welcoming community with engaging activities.
St Pauls Senior Community
Belleville, IL
Friendly staff and residents in a close, active community with convenient transportation and newly renovated apartments.
Swansea Rehab Health Care
Swansea, IL
24/7 nursing care with extensive on-site amenities
Vibrant Senior Living: A Comprehensive Guide for Active Older Adults
Vibrant Senior Living emphasizes active senior living communities that promote independence and engagement through diverse amenities and activities, fostering wellness and social interaction among older adults. These communities range from independent to assisted living, with a focus on personal growth, family involvement, financial planning, and leveraging technology to enhance residents' experiences.
Transitioning from assisted living to memory care is driven by an individual's cognitive decline and specific needs, requiring careful evaluation of indicators like increased confusion and wandering. The process involves consulting medical professionals, researching suitable communities, considering financial and legal aspects, and ensuring effective communication for personalized care plans.
Assisted Living and Memory Care: Understanding Their Core Differences
Assisted living provides moderate support for seniors seeking independence, while memory care offers specialized support for individuals with dementia or cognitive impairments through structured routines and trained staff. Key differences include care approaches, environment security measures, staff training levels, activity types, and cost considerations.
When to Transition from Assisted Living to Memory Care: Key Indicators, Steps, and Finding the Right Community