Vista Woods Care Center

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  • Interior

    A spacious living room with a large dining table and various furnishings.

  • Outdoors

    Vista Woods Care Center sign indicating directions for care services.

  • Living Room

    A vintage-style living room with a blue sofa, two lamps, and patterned wallpaper.

  • Building

    A brick building with a paved parking area under a partly cloudy sky.

  • Bedroom

    A simple hospital room featuring a bed, chair, and minimal medical equipment.

  • Exercise Equipment

    A well-equipped physical therapy room featuring a variety of exercise and rehabilitation equipment.

  • Rehabilitation

    A therapy room equipped for rehabilitation exercises.

Vista Woods Care Center

3 Pennsylvania Place, Ottumwa, IA 52501

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

3.7 from 6 reviews
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Assisted Living Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Independent Living Memory Care Skilled Nursing Facility

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    Overall Review of Vista Woods Care Center

    Cons

    • pro Staff are alleged to not care about patients or their needs, including sick children.
    • pro The facility is chronically short-staffed.
    • pro Management is described as bad and uncaring.
    • pro The place consistently smells like sewage.
    • pro Staff do not care for their patients.
    • pro Nurses are rude and treat residents as an inconvenience.
    • pro Staff do not respond to call lights and are too busy chatting.
    • pro The food is disgusting, often cold and undercooked.
    • pro The facility does not understand dietary needs, serving a pureed diet instead of a full liquid diet.
    • pro Medication is left out unattended.
    • pro Hospice care is terrible and patients are allegedly sedated so they never wake up.

    Review

    The facility described is permeated by a sense that nothing ever changes for the better. The core problem seems to be a combination of bad management and chronic short-staffing that shafts both patients and their families. From the outset, there's a feeling that concerns, requests, and needs are routinely deprioritized because there aren't enough hands on deck to address them. The day-to-day reality is shaped by a pattern of neglect and frustration, where the people who are supposed to be providing care are stretched so thin that meaningful attention to any one patient becomes a rarity rather than the norm.

    The experience of living in this place is marked by a lack of responsiveness that gnaws at patients and their loved ones alike. Call lights go unanswered, which makes the sense of insecurity and dependence feel even more acute. Nurses, who should be a steadying presence, are described as consistently rude and brusque, treating residents as inconveniences rather than as people deserving of dignity and patience. There are a few exceptions who genuinely care, but the overall atmosphere is defined by a perception that the majority choose to spend time elsewhere, chat with colleagues, or otherwise disengage from the direct work of caregiving.

    Compounding the staffing and attitude problems is an ongoing and pervasive odor problem - the facility repeatedly stinks like sewage. This environmental deficiency isn't a minor nuisance; it contributes to a broader impression of neglect and poor upkeep. The smell becomes a constant reminder of a facility that seems to have accepted a lower standard of cleanliness and maintenance. It's hard to feel confident in the level of care when the air inside your surroundings feels unclean and distressing at every turn.

    Dietary care presents another major area of concern. The meals are described as absolutely disgusting far more often than not, with food that is cold, undercooked, or lacking in basic quality. The kitchen and dining experience appear to be out of step with even basic dietary needs, as there are clear examples of mismanagement of diets - such as serving a pureed diet when a full liquid diet is appropriate for the patient's condition. This kind of repeated mismatch between dietary plans and actual meals suggests not only a communication gap but also a lack of respect for the nutritional needs and preferences of residents.

    Safety and medication practices add another layer of alarm. Medicines are left out unattended, creating risks that should be intolerable in any healthcare setting. The combination of unattended medications and the overall environment contributes to a sense that patient safety is not being prioritized. For families and patients who rely on a secure system to manage medications, this lapse amplifies doubts about the quality and reliability of the care being provided.

    Perhaps most troubling is the hospice care, which is described as terrible and fundamentally misaligned with its stated goal of comfort. The narrative suggests that the intent to ease suffering is overshadowed by a practice that prioritizes sedation over genuine comfort, with the implication that patients are being drugged to prevent wakefulness rather than genuinely cared for in a way that honors their needs and dignity. This perception - where "comfortable" seems to equate to keeping patients heavily sedated - leads to a deeply unsettling sense about end-of-life care and the way those in the final stages of life are treated.

    Taken together, these observations depict a facility where systemic issues - poor management, persistent understaffing, and a pattern of neglect - coalesce into a troubling daily reality. The patient experience is one of frequent disappointment and distress: unresponsive care, discourteous staff, uncomfortable living conditions, unsafe medication practices, and an end-of-life protocol that feels more about sedation than true comfort. For many, this combination makes the place feel not only unsatisfactory but profoundly disheartening, and it leaves families and patients alike wishing that others might avoid such an experience, especially during the most vulnerable times in life.

    Features

    Housing

    • 22 resident community capacity 22 resident community capacity

    Types of Care

    • Assisted Living 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.
    • Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are important for seniors because they provide a range of housing options and care services all in one location. This allows seniors to age in place and receive the level of care they need as their health changes, without having to move to a new facility. CCRCs provide a sense of security and peace of mind for seniors and their families, knowing that they will be taken care of no matter what the future holds.
    • Independent Living 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.
    • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.
    • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

    Amenities

    • Activities on-site 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.
    • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
    • Cable or satellite TV 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.
    • Devotional services off-site 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.
    • Fully furnished 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.
    • Garden 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 services 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.
    • Indoor common areas 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.
    • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
    • Move-in coordination 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 space 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.
    • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
    • 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

    • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
    • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
    • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.

    Care Services

    • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
    • 24-hour supervision 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 assistance 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.
    • Ambulatory care 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."
    • Assistance with bathing 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 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.
    • Assistance with transfers 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.
    • 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.
    • Diabetic 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.
    • 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.
    • 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.

    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.
    • Meals provided 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.
    • 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.

    Activities

    • Activities on-site 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.
    • Community-sponsored activities 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.
    • Devotional activities offsite 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.
    • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
    • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
    • Scheduled daily activities 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.

    Description

    Vista Woods Care Center is a premier assisted living community located in Ottumwa, IA. As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), we offer a range of care options including Independent Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing Facility services. Our goal is to provide residents with a comfortable and supportive environment where they can age in place and receive the care they need as their needs change.

    At Vista Woods Care Center, we understand the importance of amenities that enhance our residents' quality of life. We offer cable or satellite TV for entertainment, community-operated transportation for convenient outings, fully furnished accommodations for a hassle-free move-in experience, beautiful garden areas to relax and enjoy nature, housekeeping services to keep living spaces tidy, kitchenettes for those who prefer to cook their own meals, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access to stay connected with loved ones.

    Our dedicated staff provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transferring. We also assist with medication management to ensure residents receive the proper dosage at the right time. Our team understands the unique dietary needs of our residents and offers specialized meal preparation services including diabetes diets and special dietary restrictions.

    We believe in fostering an active lifestyle at Vista Woods Care Center. Our community offers fitness programs to promote physical well-being as well as resident-run activities that encourage socialization and engagement. Scheduled daily activities are also available to keep our residents mentally stimulated and entertained.

    In addition to providing excellent care within our community, we are conveniently located near various amenities in Ottumwa. There are several cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals nearby for easy access to essential services.

    At Vista Woods Care Center in Ottumwa, IA, we strive to create an inclusive environment where seniors can flourish while receiving personalized care tailored to their needs.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Physicians

    • Va Ottumwa Clinic (0.1 miles)
    • Ear Nose & Throat of Southeast Iowa (0.2 miles)
    • Ottumwa Orthopedics (0.2 miles)
    • Ottumwa Clinic (0.2 miles)
    • Ben Johnson MD (0.2 miles)
    • Iowa Clinic Heart & Vascular (0.2 miles)
    • Wolfe Eye Clinic (0.2 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Ottumwa Regional Health Center (0.2 miles)
    • McCreery Cancer Center (0.2 miles)
    • Orhc Scheduling (0.3 miles)
    • Child Health Specialty Clinic (1.5 miles)

    Transportation

    • Ottumwa Hospital Heliport (0.3 miles)
    • Tennyson Enterprises Hangar (1.4 miles)
    • MCS Charters (1.5 miles)
    • Alamo (1.6 miles)
    • Amtrak (1.7 miles)
    • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (1.8 miles)
    • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (2.1 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • Hy-Vee Pharmacy (0.8 miles)
    • Walgreens (1.5 miles)
    • Nucara Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
    • Compounding Solutions (1.6 miles)
    • Hy-Vee Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
    • South Side Drug (2.1 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Calvary Open Bible Church (1.2 miles)
    • Roger Hemmings Pastor (1.3 miles)
    • First Lutheran Church (1.4 miles)
    • First United Methodist Church (1.4 miles)
    • Heartland Assembly of God (1.5 miles)
    • The Bridge (1.5 miles)
    • First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ (1.6 miles)

    Restaurants

    • The Doghouse Tavern (1.4 miles)
    • Los Cactus Taqueria (1.4 miles)
    • Domino's Pizza (1.5 miles)
    • Victor's Chaat House (1.5 miles)
    • Safari (1.5 miles)
    • Burritos Los Roy (1.5 miles)
    • Champs Chicken (1.5 miles)

    Parks

    • Central Park (1.5 miles)
    • Ottumwa Park & Recreation Department (1.6 miles)
    • Sycamore Park (2.1 miles)
    • Ottumwa park (2.3 miles)

    Cafes

    • Nesters Cafe (1.5 miles)

    Theaters

    • Ottumwa 8 Theatres (2.7 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Vista Woods Care Center?
    Does Vista Woods Care Center provide care for residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease?
    What photos are available for Vista Woods Care Center in Ottumwa, Iowa?

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