Oakwood Manor
Save
1716 Den Hertog Street SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49519
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
What level of care are you interested in?
Assisted Living
Memory Care
Independent Living
Skilled Nursing Facility
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)CCRC
Other
The maintenance team is super responsive and respectful. Mike clearly cares about this property and its residents. The restaurant downstairs is excellent. The location is fabulous. The residents are kind. The courtyard redo looks great and the expanded parking is great too. The Oakwood is by far the best place I've lived. The staff at Oakwood, especially Spencer and the maintenance team, are really great to work with. The building has been run with greater efficiency and discipline since Mike arrived. Residents enjoy skyline views of the city. Oakwood Manor is vintage and charming. The basement restaurant is really good.
The lease contained illegal clauses under Michigan Truth in Renting Act, including automatic renewals with hidden increases and a mold waiver that absolves the landlord of mold damages. The unit wasn't cleaned between tenants despite a $300 cleaning fee. They found previous tenant belongings and a tennis-ball-sized hole in the ceiling above the shower. It felt like no one walked through the unit after the prior tenant moved out. The ground-floor bedroom window had no working lock, and maintenance delayed addressing it. The windows were old with missing or broken parts and had received little TLC for years. The dishwasher broke in month 2 and took three months to fix, with mixed messages about replacements or obsolescence. There were no fire extinguishers or working fire alarms on each floor until a nearby incident, and safety equipment was insufficient (about 2 per floor for many units). Rent of $1,475 for a not renovated 102-year-old apartment was well above market given the condition and mold-like air. Move-out deposits were initially withheld for vague wall damage, refunds required invoices, and there were unexplained overpayments. Multiple tenants reported odd security deposit charges or no deposit returned at all. The management company was described as "complete money grabbers," with leaking ceilings and old, poorly insulated windows. No air conditioning was available unless paying extra for a window unit, leading to uncontrollable heat.Oakwood Manor in Grand Rapids presents itself as a vintage gem tucked into a lively neighborhood, with a storied 102-year history and a downstairs restaurant that many residents seem to enjoy. For some tenants, the building's old-world charm - arched corridors, thick walls, and a sense of living in a piece of local history - offsets the quirks that come with an aging structure. Yet conversations among residents reveal two very different experiences: a romanticized aura of character and community on one side, and a litany of maintenance headaches, questionable lease terms, and safety concerns on the other.
Several reviews raise alarms about the lease terms and what they call legally questionable language. Critics point to a handful of clauses that appear to shift costs onto tenants: a provision that makes tenants shoulder all legal fees, a 50% holdover rent hike, and automatic renewal language with hidden increases. There are also unusually steep penalties - $500 to $600 for unregistered pets or other violations - that feel disproportionate to the scale of the infractions. Add to that a mold waiver that attempts to absolve the landlord for damages caused by mold, and it's clear why some tenants describe the paperwork as heavy-handed or unfair. These concerns are framed as not just annoying but potentially illegal under Michigan Truth in Renting Act guidelines, casting a shadow over the sense of transparency that a prospective renter might expect.
The physical condition of the units themselves is a frequent hot topic. Several tenants describe units that were not adequately prepared for new occupants: no cleaning between tenants despite a $300 cleaning fee, evidence of previous tenants' belongings still in place, and visible damage like a tennis-ball-sized hole in the ceiling above the shower. In one case, a ground-floor bedroom window lacked a functioning lock, and maintenance dragged its feet to address it. When a replacement lock was finally installed, it required repeated insistence. The building's windows are described as old and neglected, with missing or broken parts that have clearly not been tended to for years, contributing to a sense that the unit's safety and comfort were not a priority for much of the tenancy.
Maintenance responsiveness is a mixed bag. A dishwasher - a feature typically considered a basic amenity in a lease - broke down in month two and remained unfixed for three months. Residents recount a frustrating do-si-do of back-and-forth with a manager and maintenance staff, with some days spent hearing that a "new" dishwasher was on the way or that the old model was no longer manufactured, only to find the remedy was a single small part that could have been swapped in quickly. The broader pattern suggests inconsistent communication: the property manager would defer to maintenance, maintenance would defer to vendors, and tenants often had to take matters into their own hands by coordinating repairs themselves.
Fire safety, a non-negotiable concern in any building, appears to have been neglected for too long. Reports indicate there were no fire extinguishers or working fire alarms on each floor for an extended period, with a near-miss that heightened scrutiny from the fire department. A resident recalls waking to a smoky hallway and realizing the detectors failed to sound promptly. When extinguishers were eventually added, they were limited in number and placed in back stairwells rather than in easily accessible locations for all units. In a building of this age, that kind of safety oversight can weigh heavily on tenants' sense of security, even if some residents later acknowledged improvements after the incident.
Rent versus value is another tension point in the narrative. One tenant paid $1,475 for a two-bedroom in a 102-year-old building that, by all accounts, had plumbing, electrical, and cabinetry decades out of date. The market nearby presented noticeably renovated, cleaner options at roughly the same monthly rate, which makes the perceived value gap hard to ignore. The contrast with a neighboring condo complex that had recently updated units underscores the feeling that the Oakwood's vintage charm comes at a price - both financially and in terms of comfort and modern conveniences.
Move-out and security deposit experiences add another layer of dissatisfaction for some residents. One tenant successfully retrieved a refund after challenging an initially with-held deposit labeled for vague "wall damage." The settlement came after demanding invoices and proof of repair. Yet even then, there was an unexplained $50 overpayment. Other tenants reported similar discrepancies with security deposits or outright failure to return them, reinforcing a sense of inconsistent accounting practices within the management company. Taken together, these anecdotes cultivate a cautious outlook for anyone considering renting here, who must weigh potential financial surprises against the building's location and history.
Despite these criticisms, there are persistent threads of praise that complicate the overall picture. A notable number of residents speak highly of a property manager named Mike, describing him as kind, helpful, and professional, with an ability to respond quickly and address concerns effectively. The maintenance team is also recognized for its responsiveness and respectful attitude, and many residents appreciate the building's historic charm, the downstairs restaurant, and the sense of community that comes with living in a vintage property. In these voices, Oakwood is not simply a building; it's a place with character that people form attachments to, where some issues are tolerated because of the location, the vibe, and the people they feel have their back.
In the end, Oakwood Manor sits at a crossroads between nostalgia and realism. For some tenants, the building's aura - the historic brick, the convenient downtown location, the restaurant downstairs, and a responsive maintenance crew - outweighs the drawbacks. For others, the combination of allegedly aggressive lease terms, safety concerns, aging infrastructure, and inconsistent maintenance represents a warning signal about what it takes to live here, especially in a building that has stood the test of time but may need sweeping renovations to meet modern expectations. The divided sentiment is a reminder that charm can coexist with serious logistical and safety challenges, and that prospective renters should weigh the allure of historic living against the realities of upkeep, safety, and fair, transparent leasing. For those who value the community and the character, Oakwood remains an appealing option; for others, especially those prioritizing modern amenities and predictable terms, it may be worth looking elsewhere or waiting for a clear path to "Under New Management."
4 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.
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.
Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.
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.
Kent County International (10 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. Dementia waiverDementia waivers are essential for seniors as they provide critical protections and accommodations for those experiencing cognitive decline. These waivers ensure individuals with dementia receive appropriate care, support, and resources to maintain their quality of life and dignity as they navigate the challenges of this progressive condition.
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.
Hospice waiverHospice waivers are important for seniors because they allow individuals to receive specialized end-of-life care and support at home or in a hospice facility. This waiver ensures that seniors can access the necessary resources and services to maintain comfort and dignity during their final days.
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.
Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults. Mild cognitive impairment"Mild cognitive impairment" is important for seniors because it is an early stage of cognitive decline that can potentially progress to more severe conditions such as dementia. Recognizing and addressing mild cognitive impairment can help seniors receive appropriate care and support to maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.
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. Specialized memory care programmingSpecialized memory care programming is crucial for seniors with cognitive impairments such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.
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.Oakwood Manor in Grand Rapids, MI is an assisted living community that offers specialized care for individuals with memory loss and provides respite care services. Our community is designed to provide a comfortable and safe environment for our residents.
At Oakwood Manor, we understand the importance of maintaining a high quality of life, which is why we offer a range of amenities to support our residents' needs. Our fully furnished accommodations ensure that our residents feel at home from the moment they arrive. We also have a beautiful garden and outdoor space where residents can relax and enjoy nature.
We take pride in providing exceptional care services to our residents. Our dedicated staff is trained to assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also coordinate with health care providers to ensure that our residents receive the necessary medical attention they require. Additionally, we offer medication management and meal preparation services, including special dietary restrictions.
At Oakwood Manor, we understand the importance of mental wellness for our residents. That's why we have developed a specialized memory care program and offer activities tailored to their cognitive needs. Our daily scheduled activities ensure that there are plenty of opportunities for social engagement and stimulation.
Our community is conveniently located near various amenities including cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals. This ensures that our residents have easy access to the resources they need.
If you or your loved one are seeking a supportive assisted living community that specializes in memory care or requires respite care services in Grand Rapids, MI, Oakwood Manor is here to provide compassionate care in a warm and inviting environment.
Oakwood Manor is located at 1716 Den Hertog Street SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49519 in Kent County, Michigan
Oakwood Manor's features are thoughtfully designed to support residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease in their daily lives, enhancing their overall well-being and quality of care. Assistance with dressing and bathing helps maintain personal hygiene and dignity, fostering a sense of normalcy. Medication management ensures that residents take the right medications at the right times, which is crucial for their health stability. Meal preparation and service cater to dietary needs while providing nourishment, promoting physical health. Transportation arrangements for medical appointments address mobility challenges, facilitating access to essential health services. Coordination with healthcare providers ensures residents receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs. Activities of daily living assistance, along with 24-hour supervision, creates an environment of safety and support that fosters independence where possible. Programs addressing mild cognitive impairment and specialized memory care programming offer targeted engagement strategies that stimulate mental wellness and cognitive function. This holistic approach not only supports the physical aspects of care but also nurtures emotional wellness through structured activities and a supportive community environment.
Gladiola Home
Wyoming, MI
Small, intimate assisted living with 24/7 care and comprehensive services.
Vista Springs Rediscovery Lofts
Wyoming, MI
Friendly, attentive staff; clean facility; engaging activities.
Vista Springs Rediscovery Lofts costs
Vista Springs Rediscovery Lofts reviews
Vista Springs Rediscovery Lofts images
Vista Springs Wyoming
Wyoming, MI
Clean environment, friendly staff, and a wide range of activities and amenities.
Re-Purposed Assisted Living
Wyoming, MI
Small, intimate setting with personalized care and affordable private-room pricing.
Re-Purposed Assisted Living costs
Re-Purposed Assisted Living reviews
Re-Purposed Assisted Living images
Robert Residence
Wyoming, MI
Small, personalized board-and-care with comprehensive ADL/medical support.
Michael House
Wyoming, MI
Intimate 6-resident community with comprehensive care and amenities.
Medilodge Of Wyoming
Wyoming, MI
Caring staff with engaging activities in a clean, well-maintained setting.
Georgetown Manor East
Grandville, MI
Clean, attentive staff with engaging activities and personalized dementia care.
Sunset Manor
Jenison, MI
Caring staff and a wide range of amenities.
Dementia encompasses a range of cognitive impairments characterized by types such as Alzheimer's and vascular dementia, and follows a seven-stage progression model known as the Global Deterioration Scale (GDS), highlighting varying symptoms and decline timelines. Early detection allows for lifestyle adjustments to potentially slow progression, while caregivers need support and resources to manage the challenges involved in caring for affected individuals.
A Holistic Dementia Care Guide: Effective Strategies for Memory Support
The guide on holistic dementia care outlines the complexity of dementia and stresses the need for individualized caregiver strategies that include medical treatment, psychological support, and environmental adaptations, while emphasizing early detection, various therapeutic options, and caregiver support to enhance quality of life and maintain dignity.
Memory Care Pathways: A Holistic Guide to Dementia Support
"Memory Care Pathways: A Holistic Guide to Dementia Support" outlines the complexities of dementia and its various types, emphasizing early detection, patient-centered care strategies, caregiver support, and long-term care options while addressing legal and financial considerations to enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their families.
Interior
Landscaping
Understanding Dementia Through Its Seven Stages: A Comprehensive Look at Progression and Expectations