The Glenn Buffalo Commons Assisted Living

Pros

• The staff at Cottagewood is friendly and provides a welcoming atmosphere for residents.
• The facility has flexible pet policies, allowing residents to bring small dogs or cats, which many appreciate.
• Residents feel that Cottagewood offers a down-to-earth environment compared to other upscale facilities.
• The director of the facility shows concern for her staff, recognizing their contributions and potential challenges in retaining them.
• Overall, the facility is viewed positively by the reviewers, suggesting that it meets many of the residents' needs effectively.

Cons

• The resident's personal belongings, including an electric razor, pajamas, and a valuable sweater, have gone missing multiple times.
• The staff did not provide necessary items for the resident’s care, such as teeth and hearing aids, leading to missed meals without proper dental assistance.
• The resident was observed using someone else's glasses and was often missing hospital socks or shoes designed to prevent falls.
• Concerns raised by family members about the resident's care were dismissed by staff, leading to frustration and a lack of communication.
• There seems to be inconsistency in policies regarding pet ownership that adds confusion about what is allowed in the facility.

Review

The experiences shared regarding care facilities reveal a dichotomy of perspectives, shedding light on the complexities associated with long-term care. One reviewer expresses deep concern over the safety and well-being of their mother, who has been residing at The Glenn Cottages for several months. This individual highlights several troubling incidents that have impacted their family’s peace of mind, including the disappearance of personal items such as an electric razor, expensive pajamas, and a substantial hooded cable knit sweater from Ireland. Furthermore, there are alarming reports about the misplacement of essential items like dentures and hearing aids, raising questions about the daily care standards in place.

The reviewer details how their mother has been affected by these lapses in oversight; particularly concerning is the fact that she went two meals without her teeth because they were misplaced. The lack of glasses on some days means she may not be able to see clearly or participate fully in activities, which could affect her overall quality of life. Additionally, it is noted that due to her fall risk status, she should ideally wear non-slip hospital socks or suitable footwear—neither was provided during a visit.

Compounding these worries are accusations made by staff members alleging that the reviewer had been warned multiple times against communicating with them about concerns regarding their mother's care—a claim that is denied by the reviewer. Escalating frustrations culminated in a discussion with the director of The Glenn Cottages where it was revealed that staff morale is an existing concern due to high turnover rates among younger employees. In light of these events and communication barriers between family members and health providers, it comes as no surprise that plans are underway for relocating their loved one to another facility when possible.

Conversely, another review reflects a more favorable experience within Cottagewood—a different long-term care community noted for its friendly environment and welcoming atmosphere. Here, residents find themselves amidst rules regarding pets which allow for small dogs or cats to join their owners without strict enforcement on pet weight limits. This flexibility reflects a compassionate approach towards enhancing residents’ emotional support systems in what can often be stressful living conditions.

Acknowledging differences across facilities proves difficult for this reviewer given varying degrees of luxury observed during tours—culminating in perceptions that some locations feel overly upscale compared to Cottagewood’s more laid-back demeanor. While recognizing distinct tastes among prospective residents or family members searching for appropriate living situations for aging loved ones is important; this particular facility offers an approachable charm that resonates positively amidst eldercare options.

Ultimately, both reviews delve into critical issues surrounding resident safety and communication within assisted living environments while highlighting unique aspects each facility brings to potential tenants and their families. In advocating for better standards—whether through increased attention from staff at The Glenn Cottages or appreciating Cottagewood's warmth—these narratives underscore crucial considerations when evaluating eldercare alternatives. Each experience shared offers insights into fostering open dialogue between families and caregivers while addressing nuances vital to supporting our senior population effectively as they traverse later stages of life.

This area of Buffalo, Minnesota offers a variety of amenities that cater to the needs and interests of seniors. In close proximity, there are several places of worship including the Seventh-Day Adventist Church and St Michael Catholic Church for spiritual enrichment. Residents can enjoy a range of dining options such as Hot Wok Delivery, Perkins Restaurant and Bakery, and Sakura Sushi & Steak House. Access to pharmacies like Sterling Pharmacy and Walgreens ensures convenience for medication needs. Nearby parks like Sturges Park and Gary Mattson Park provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Medical services are easily accessible with facilities like Allina Medical Clinic and Buffalo Hospital Emergency Department nearby. Overall, this part of Buffalo provides a comfortable and convenient environment that would be ideal for senior living.

Places of Worship

• Seventh-Day Aventist Church (0.1 miles)
• St Michael Catholic Church (0.2 miles)
• Wels (4.7 miles)
• Liberty Mission Church (4.8 miles)
• Holy Cross Lutheran Church (6.8 miles)
• St Mary's Catholic Church (8.7 miles)
• Quarry Community Church (9.2 miles)

Restaurants

• Hot Wok Delivery (0.1 miles)
• McDonald's (0.4 miles)
• Perkins Restaurant and Bakery (0.5 miles)
• Applebee's (0.6 miles)
• El Molcajete Mexican Resaurante and Bar (0.7 miles)
• Sakura Sushi & Steak House (0.8 miles)
• Taco John's (0.9 miles)

Pharmacies

• Sterling Pharmacy (0.1 miles)
• Sterling Drug (0.1 miles)
• Walgreens (0.7 miles)
• Cub Pharmacy (0.7 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1 miles)
• Cub Pharmacy 691 (9.5 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (9.6 miles)

Parks

• Sturges Park (0.5 miles)
• Mills Sturges Park (0.8 miles)
• The Park (1.3 miles)
• Gary Mattson Park (1.4 miles)
• Pioneer Park (8.7 miles)
• Gutzwiller Park (9.5 miles)
• Delano City Park (9.6 miles)

Physicians

• Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (0.5 miles)
• Allina Medical Clinic (0.6 miles)
• Richardson Nancy MD (1.4 miles)
• West Metro Ophthalmology (1.6 miles)
• Whitesell Medical Locums (1.7 miles)
• Drs. Bailey and Simmons (9.6 miles)
• Onsite Medical Service (9.8 miles)

Hospitals

• Buffalo Hospital Emergency Department (1.5 miles)
• Buffalo Clinic (1.6 miles)
• Monticello-Big Lake Pet Hosp (8.5 miles)
• Riverplace Clinic (9.8 miles)
• Monticello Big Lake Hospital (9.9 miles)
• New River Medical Center (9.9 miles)
• Nursing Home Monticello-Big Lake (9.9 miles)

Cafes

• Irish Blessings Coffeehouse (7.4 miles)
• Caribou Coffee (9.6 miles)
• Caribou Coffee (10.8 miles)

Theaters

• Monticello 15 Theatre (8.4 miles)