French Foster Home

202 Lynn Drive, Niles, MI 49120

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

1.4 from 5 reviews
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Assisted Living

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    Overall Review of French Foster Home

    Pros

    • pro There was a young kid that helped people with baths if they couldn't bath alone.

    Cons

    • pro The home is filthy and resembles a prison dungeon.
    • pro There is no running water in the bathroom; residents must fill a bucket to wash.
    • pro Staff refuse to call 911 and even rip the phone cord out to prevent use.
    • pro The environment is dirty, with poop on the wall and residents urinating on the floor without cleaning.
    • pro The staff yell at residents and are abusive; one worker even slapped a man and justified using hot water.
    • pro Medications are mishandled, with doses doubled or tripled and residents receiving other people's meds.
    • pro The place is viewed as a joke by residents, often called a "damn tohell home," and eviction notices label residents as troublemakers.
    • pro There is no reliable contact when the owner is away, as phones go unanswered.

    Review

    The account centers on a painful and terrifying experience living in what the writer describes as a profoundly neglected and unsafe care setting. The narrator recalls residing there for about a month, during which a serious accident - breaking a hip on the second day - turned into a cascade of fear, restraint, and a sense of abandonment. When they asked the staff to call 911, they were met with refusals. In a desperate bid to get help, they wheeled their wheelchair to a phone and tried to dial themselves, only to have the phone cord ripped from the wall. The message was blunt: the resident was not allowed to use the phone. This early, shocking confrontation set the tone for what followed, painting a picture of a place where basic safety and dignity were routinely compromised.

    The living environment itself is described in almost nightmarish terms. The first night revealed conditions so unsanitary and unsafe that they resembled a prison dungeon. The bathroom lacked running water, forcing the resident to fill a gallon bucket from the kitchen to wash up. The room's hygiene was horrific: on the first night, the bed area revealed poop on the wall near the person's face, and residents would repeatedly pee on the floor, with no one cleaning up. The writer emphasizes that such conditions were not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern that made daily life unbearable and hazardous.

    Beyond the appalling hygiene, the account highlights pervasive staff mistreatment and mismanagement. The roommate's experiences underline a recurring lack of care for residents' wellbeing - people would fall, and staff would simply pass by, yelling at them as if the sufferers were at fault for their own frailty. A young employee who helped people bathe is described as having smacked a man because the water was too hot, a detail that underscores safety lapses and abusive behavior. The overall tone toward the staff is charged with fear and contempt: they were loud, hostile, and not the kind of support one would expect in a residential care setting. The narrator notes that medication practices were deeply unreliable, with instances of doubling or tripling doses and giving residents other people's medications. The result was a chronic inability to trust the care provided, with the writer insisting that their own medications were not managed correctly "all the time."

    In what appears to be a longer arc of time, the writer describes themselves as a Blessed Home resident for at least two years. Within that extended period, the sentiment among residents grew into a shared, corrosive nickname for the place: many called it a "damn to hell home." The language conveys a steady, cumulative sense of despair and disillusionment, suggesting that the environment was consistently unsafe and dehumanizing. The line between personal safety and neglect seemed dangerously thin, and the community's experience reflected a broader pattern of systemic failures rather than isolated incidents.

    As the situation evolved, the writer's current condition became a blend of ongoing exposure to mismanagement and an urgent need to leave. They describe a recent experience where staff would not admit mistakes, including an instance of giving too much medicine. When they challenged the care, they were labeled a liar. The next day they received an eviction notice, accusing them of being a troublemaker and stating that they were given days to adjust. The tone conveys a sense of retaliation and control, painting a picture of a facility that weaponizes compliance and leaves residents with little recourse when concerns arise.

    Communication outside the walls of the facility also appears severely deficient. The writer laments that there is no reliable contact point when the owner is away: "the phone rings & rings & no one picks up." This inability to reach someone in charge compounds the sense of isolation and danger. The writer mentions their sister, who is mentally ill and relies on after-visit checks, highlighting the stress faced by families trying to manage care from a distance. After visiting hours end at 5 pm, there is little to no support for families who need access or oversight, and the lack of accessibility further compounds the fear and uncertainty surrounding the resident's wellbeing.

    In the end, the narrator expresses a blend of faith and frustration, turning to prayer for guidance and intercession for the residents still living there. They acknowledge that they are currently waiting to move, hoping to escape the pattern of neglect and danger that defined their experience. The overall recollection is not merely a complaint about one bad day, but a chronic, distressing portrait of neglect, abuse, poor medication practices, poor sanitation, and a lack of accountability. It reads as a strong warning to others: if you rely on this place for someone you love, proceed with extreme caution, verify every detail, and seek alternatives with transparent oversight and proven safety and care standards.

    Features

    Housing

    • 6 resident community capacity 6 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.

    Amenities

    • 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.
    • Dining room 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 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.
    • 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.
    • 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

    • South Bend Regional (11 miles away) South Bend Regional (11 miles away)

    Care Services

    • 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.
    • 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.
    • Coordination with health care providers 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 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.
    • 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.
    • Transportation arrangement (medical) 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 appointments 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.

    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.

    Activities

    • 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.
    • 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

    The French Foster Home in Niles, MI is a fully furnished assisted living community that offers a comfortable and welcoming environment for seniors. The community provides a range of amenities to ensure the well-being and convenience of its residents.

    The dining room offers a pleasant space for meals, where residents can enjoy delicious and nutritious food prepared by the staff who are experienced in catering to special dietary restrictions. The community also provides housekeeping services to maintain a clean and organized living environment for everyone.

    Residents can take advantage of the outdoor space and garden area to relax or engage in some light exercise. Additionally, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet and telephone services are available to keep residents connected with their loved ones.

    The French Foster Home places a strong emphasis on providing excellent care services. Staff members are available to assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. They also coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure that residents receive the necessary medical support. Medication management is offered to ensure that medications are taken correctly and on time.

    To keep residents engaged and entertained, scheduled daily activities are provided. These activities aim to cater to different interests and abilities, promoting social interaction among residents.

    Located conveniently near parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, and hospitals, the French Foster Home ensures easy access to various essential services outside the community. Transportation arrangements for medical appointments are also provided for added convenience.

    Overall, the French Foster Home in Niles, MI offers a supportive and caring environment where seniors can enjoy comfortable living while receiving personalized assistance with their daily needs.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Places of Worship

    • Hope Community Church (0.7 miles)
    • Morris Chapel (5.7 miles)
    • Christ the King Catholic Church (7.9 miles)
    • Granger Community Church (8 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • Walgreens (3 miles)
    • Medicap Pharmacy (6.5 miles)
    • Edwardsburg Drugs (6.5 miles)
    • Walgreens (6.9 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (7 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (7.2 miles)
    • Walgreens (7.4 miles)

    Physicians

    • Integrated Home Physicians (3.2 miles)
    • Cardiology Southwest PC (3.5 miles)
    • Helene M Johnson MD (3.6 miles)
    • Lakeland ENT (3.6 miles)
    • Lakeside Urology (3.6 miles)
    • South County Ent (3.6 miles)
    • Asthma Allergy Centers of SW Michigan (3.6 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Create (3.2 miles)
    • Iron Shoe Distillery (3.3 miles)
    • Taco Bell (3.3 miles)
    • Culver's (3.4 miles)
    • Tavern (3.7 miles)
    • Wings Etc (4.1 miles)
    • Old Tavern Inn (5.2 miles)

    Parks

    • Riverfront Park (3.4 miles)
    • Fulkerson Park (4.4 miles)
    • St Patrick's County Park (6.7 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Lakeland Hospital (3.5 miles)
    • Lakeland Hospital - Radiology (3.5 miles)
    • Lake Region Medical Center (3.6 miles)
    • Lakeland Regional (6 miles)
    • Clear Choice Adult Day (8 miles)
    • Healthwin Specialized Care (8.2 miles)

    Cafes

    • Maple Cafe (6.5 miles)
    • Starbucks (7.1 miles)
    • Martin's Side Door Deli (7.7 miles)
    • Starbucks (8.4 miles)
    • Union Coffee House (8.6 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

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    Nearby Communities

    Related Resources

    • does medicaid pay for assisted livingUnderstanding Medicaid Coverage for Assisted Living: A Comprehensive Guide

      The guide outlines the complexities of Medicaid coverage for assisted living, highlighting significant state-to-state variations, limited coverage often restricted to personal care services, and the existence of specialized waivers for certain needs like memory care. It advises families to consult local Medicaid offices for options while emphasizing the importance of understanding state-specific regulations and facility policies.

    • does medicaid pay for assisted livingHow and When Medicaid May Cover Assisted Living Costs

      Medicaid coverage for assisted living varies by state and is primarily available to low-income individuals, with eligibility dependent on strict income and asset limits. Some states offer HCBS waivers for specific services in assisted living, but families must generally cover room and board costs, and should verify facility acceptance of Medicaid while considering potential waiting lists.

    • assisted living waiver programA Detailed Exploration of Assisted Living Medicaid Waivers Across the United States

      Medicaid waivers for assisted living services provide vital support for seniors and individuals with disabilities in need of long-term care, with varying state-specific eligibility criteria and benefits. These waivers cover personal care and case management but often do not fully cover room and board, leading to waiting lists for many applicants.


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