14396 Grand Oaks Drive, Baxter, MN 56425
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The building's manager is described as very nice. She gave a free couch and chair set after a house fire. The log set is described as beautiful. The reviewers are grateful for the generosity.
The facility is poorly managed. There is a high turnover rate among staff and management. The resident meal areas are left dirty after mealtimes because one staff member is busy tending to multiple residents. There is insufficient staffing, with limited RN presence to assist with resident care. Outside agency staff are frequently seen, and activities for residents are limited. Aides and RNs are described as having poor attitudes and appearing lazy when asked to assist residents. Staff frequently use personal phones on the job, raising concerns about attention to residents. The facility's attractive appearance does not compensate for the poor level of care and staff performance.Several people who have interacted with Diamond Willow in the Brainerd area report a troubling combination of staffing instability, management issues, and gaps in daily care. The overarching message across multiple accounts is to go in with eyes wide open and to be prepared for what may be a challenging experience, even before considering waitlists or availability. The sentiment across reviews is clear: success for residents hinges less on a polished facility and more on whether the staff and management can sustain consistent, attentive care.
A dominant thread running through the feedback is high staff turnover and a pattern of limited consistency. One reviewer notes a nine-year period with only three staff members who could be considered consistently present, implying that the overwhelming majority of aides and even management turnover frequently. This pattern is said to translate into real-world consequences: when only one staff member is responsible for tending to multiple residents, meals and daily routines can suffer. In such cases, the dining and resident care areas are described as being left dirty long after meals, suggesting that housekeeping and caregiving tasks may be deprioritized in the rush of covering multiple residents. The implication is that the system relies on a single staff member to juggle many duties, which reviewers interpret as a signal of insufficient staffing to meet resident needs.
The role of licensed nurses in daily care is another point of contention. Some reviewers question the presence and visibility of RNs, noting that they did not observe RNs actively assisting residents and instead saw a lone aide handling most tasks while two RNs reportedly sat in an office. This description fuels concerns about the actual level of clinical oversight and immediate care residents receive. The mention of outside agency staff arriving on-site further underscores a perception that there may be gaps in internal staffing, with residents appearing to receive limited engagement beyond basic needs.
Activity and engagement appear to be areas of weakness as well. Several accounts point to a lack of meaningful activities for residents, with outsiders and residents themselves noting that there isn't much going on beyond basic care. The sense conveyed is that, even when care is technically being met, residents may feel isolated or under-stimulated due to limited programming and staff attention.
Attitudes and professionalism among staff are another recurring concern. Reviews describe a pervasive sense of unprofessionalism characterized by noticeable negative attitudes, frequent phone usage for personal purposes, and a perceived lack of attentiveness to residents. Some reviewers explicitly allege HIPAA issues, citing concerns that confidential information could be discussed or charted on personal devices rather than on secure, work-approved systems. The combination of personal device use and distracted staff contributes to a broader impression of care that may feel rushed or unfocused on resident well-being.
Management's performance is portrayed as inconsistent. On the negative side, the feedback frequently points to poor management and an inability to retain staff, suggesting systemic issues that ripple through the facility's operations. Yet there is a notable counterpoint in one review: the building's female manager is described as very nice and generous, highlighted by a personal act of kindness - the provision of a free couch and chair set after a devastating house fire, along with compliments about the log set. This personal generosity stands in contrast to broader complaints about management and staffing, illustrating a nuanced picture where individual leadership can feel kind and supportive even if organizational trouble persists.
A final thread weaves together the physical environment with the lived experience of care. Multiple reviewers acknowledge Diamond Willow's beauty and well-maintained appearance, noting that the facility's physical attributes do not compensate for the shortcomings in staffing, care delivery, and day-to-day operations. The sentiment is that a beautiful building, while attractive, cannot replace consistent, attentive caregiving and reliable management. In practice, the overall impression from these reviews is that the facility can look impressive, but the resident experience may be undermined by high turnover, insufficient staffing, and attention gaps from personnel who are spread too thin.
Collectively, these reviews paint a complex portrait of Diamond Willow: a facility with a strong, potentially generous leadership presence in some moments, but chronic concerns about staffing stability, care consistency, and professional execution. Prospective families are advised to approach with diligence - to verify staffing ratios, observe day-to-day operations, and assess whether the level of care and engagement matches expectations before making a decision about a loved one's home. The recurring warnings about turnover, patient attention, and reliance on personal devices for work underscore the importance of critical, on-site evaluation when considering Diamond Willow as a potential residence.
26 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.
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 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.
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 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.
Brainerd-Crow Wing County Regional (6 miles away)
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 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.
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 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.
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 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. 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 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.Diamond Willow of Baxter is an assisted living community located in Baxter, MN. The community offers a variety of amenities to ensure the comfort and convenience of its residents. Each apartment is fully furnished and includes cable or satellite TV, a kitchenette, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access. Residents can also enjoy the beautiful outdoor space and garden.
The care services provided by Diamond Willow of Baxter are comprehensive and designed to meet the individual needs of each resident. The staff provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. They also coordinate with health care providers to ensure that residents receive the necessary medical care. Medication management is available, as well as a diabetes diet program for those with specific dietary needs.
Residents at Diamond Willow of Baxter can enjoy a variety of activities to keep them engaged and entertained. The community offers resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities for all residents to participate in.
In terms of location, Diamond Willow of Baxter is conveniently situated near several amenities. There are four cafes, five parks, eleven pharmacies, twenty-three physicians, twenty-one restaurants, three transportation options, nine places of worship, and five hospitals nearby.
Overall, Diamond Willow of Baxter provides a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks while maintaining their independence. With a range of amenities and services available, residents can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle in this assisted living community.
Diamond Willow of Baxter is located at 14396 Grand Oaks Drive, Baxter, MN 56425 in Crow Wing County, Minnesota
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