Aase Haugen Home
SaveFour Ohio Street, Decorah, IA 52101
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The experiences shared about Aase Haugen Home present a facility that many visitors find warm, welcoming, and attentive, with a strong emphasis on courtesy and safety. Several reviewers describe staff who are pleasant from the moment you arrive - led to the room, greeted respectfully, and careful to announce visits and confirm that the resident wants to see you. That sense of resident-first courtesy, they say, is a foundational strength of the place. One reviewer recalls a visit where the staff "knocked on the door and announced my presence," underscoring a culture of safety and respect that runs through many interactions in the building. The kindness and demeanor of the staff are repeatedly praised, contributing to a feeling of comfort and reassurance for families during what can be a stressful time.
On the flip side, several comments highlight a more complicated reality behind the smiles. A recurring thread is that while contracted physician care from Winn-Med is described as excellent, the overall quality of daily care can be inconsistent. Reviewers note that care levels can fluctuate - strong in some areas and spotty in others - leading to frustration for families who feel that, over the years, much of the skilled and compassionate staff that once defined the facility may no longer be there. This tension between excellent medical oversight and uneven day-to-day caregiving creates a sense that advocacy by families is sometimes necessary to ensure residents receive the attention they deserve.
Among the most consistently positive notes are witnesses to genuine acts of care within the memory care and general caregiving teams. Statements like "The staff is so nice; I love how they treat my daddy" and "My sister was in this place. She received good care. Friendly helpful staff" reflect a culture of warmth and personal engagement that many families value deeply. Reviewers also speak of a clean, welcoming environment and a robust activity program that contributes to a sense of normalcy and well-being for residents. One reviewer even highlights the facility's identity as a continuing care retirement community that combines quality care with a fun-loving, active culture, suggesting that the social and recreational aspects of life there matter as much as clinical care.
A notable emphasis is placed on memory care, where several reviewers specifically praise compassionate, attentive service. The Rivers Unit is singled out as a place where caregivers go beyond routine duties - "Kayla is a fantastic care giver," and staff who "not only take excellent care of the residents but always ask me if I need anything when I am visiting." Personal touches are highlighted, such as celebrating a resident's birthday with familiar songs, which signals to families that the community values residents' identities and histories. The sense that memory care is treated as a specialized, heartfelt effort is a strong theme in the positive remarks.
However, the narrative is not without serious safety and quality concerns. A particular account describes toe clipping by a nurse who may not have been qualified, resulting in multiple toes bleeding and lingering discomfort months later. Additional criticism centers on a feeding-tube incident where a tube "had bust" and, instead of being promptly taken to a doctor, the staff chose to tape and wait, delaying appropriate medical attention. Such claims raise questions about staff training, supervision, and responsiveness, and they underscore why some families feel the need to stay actively involved in their loved one's care.
Staffing levels and responsiveness surface repeatedly as a challenge. Comments like "Short staffed," "Pretty slow responding? looks under staffed," and "Terrible customer service! Rude call attendant" reflect a broader concern that even when the care team is kind and well-intentioned, limited staffing and slow communication can hinder timely and consistent care. There are also remarks about administrative pressures, including perceptions that billing practices are aggressive at times, which can be distressing to families who are already navigating complex care needs and budgets.
In the broader public acknowledgment, the facility earns notable recognition: a specific statement places Aase Haugen Home in the top tier - "TOP 5 NURSING HOME IN IOWA by US News. Of the 68 rated in Iowa Aase Haugen Home rated #5. Well deserved." This external validation sits alongside the personal experiences of residents and families, reinforcing that many people see the center as a high-quality option with a solid reputation. The closing sentiment from reviewers is one of gratitude for the dedication of staff and appreciation that, despite some areas needing improvement, there is a strong foundation of care and kindness that many families value deeply.
Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a facility that succeeds in delivering warmth, safety, and meaningful engagement for many residents, particularly in memory care, while also grappling with systemic challenges like staffing shortages and variable daily care quality. Families repeatedly commend the personal attention, thoughtful interactions, and moments that make a loved one feel valued. At the same time, they call for continued attention to training, timely medical responsiveness, and administrative efficiency to ensure that the level of care matches the high intentions and the positive daily experiences many residents and their families already enjoy.
Aase Haugen Home, located in the picturesque Decorah, IA, offers a welcoming and supportive environment for residents seeking both independent living and skilled nursing care. This vibrant community is designed to cater to the needs of individuals while promoting a fulfilling lifestyle.
Residents can enjoy a range of amenities that enhance their quality of life. The community features a beauty salon, a fully furnished dining room with restaurant-style dining, and a cozy gaming room for socializing with friends. Those looking to stay active will appreciate the fitness room and wellness center, as well as outdoor spaces that invite relaxation in nature's embrace. Aase Haugen Home also boasts conveniences like Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access, a computer center, and transportation arrangements for non-medical needs or doctor appointments.
Care services are comprehensive yet personalized at Aase Haugen Home. Trained staff provide 24-hour supervision, ensuring safety and peace of mind for residents. Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers is available, along with medication management and tailored meal preparation to accommodate special dietary restrictions. The focus on mental wellness is evident through various programs designed to support residents' overall health.
The vibrant activity calendar includes fitness programs, concierge services, planned day trips, resident-run activities, and scheduled daily events that foster engagement and connection among residents. In addition to these on-site offerings, the surrounding area enriches life at Aase Haugen Home with nearby parks, pharmacies, physicians? offices, restaurants, theaters, hospitals, places of worship, and transit options.
Choosing Aase Haugen Home means embracing an inclusive community where independence flourishes alongside comprehensive care?each resident supported in their journey towards holistic well-being.
Aase Haugen Home is located at Four Ohio Street, Decorah, IA 52101 in Winneshiek County, Iowa
Aase Haugen Home on seniors.fyi includes 5 photos including images showing interior, landscaping, decor, nurse, healthcare, exercise, fitness, patio, and more.
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