418 East Alcott Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The facility is beautiful. The staff are great. Integrity, compassion, dedication, teamwork, and customer service are highlighted.
The facility was described as poor, with a crappy situation. Viewers warned not to allow the staff to take care of loved ones. A social worker was described as clueless and easily manipulated. The nurse coordinator allegedly did not keep the family informed weekly, was hostile, and refused to answer questions. The administrator allegedly did not follow up with the family and would not return phone calls. It was alleged that a staffing problem call was staged with employees in the room coaching what to say. Reviewers claim that promises of inclusions were not honored and that bills included unexpected charges.A set of recent comments about Woodlawn Lodge presents a surprisingly mixed picture. On one hand, readers speak of a place with potential and appeal, and on the other hand, they describe frustrating experiences that leave families wary about trusting their loved ones to the care there. The contrast is stark: beautiful surroundings and apparently capable staff are acknowledged by some, while other voices accuse the operation of poor leadership, poor communication, and questionable billing practices. Taken together, the reviews read like a story of high hopes meeting troubling gaps in execution.
Several remarks center on a deeply negative impression of the care environment. The opening lines are blunt: "Poor place. Poor closing of Woodlawn lodge. Crappy situation." Those phrases set a tone of alarm and dissatisfaction that recurs throughout the feedback. The reviewers urge caution, with one explicit warning: "Do not allow these people to take care of your loved ones." The critique targets specific individuals in positions of responsibility, painting a troubling portrait of gaps in competence and judgment. Debbie Grimes is described as "clueless, easily manipulated and should not be a social worker." The nurse coordinator, Carrie Oren, is said to have failed in timely, informative communication, being "hostile and refused to answer questions" and not keeping the family updated on a weekly basis. The administrator, Rachel Rollie, is accused of neglecting follow-up and not returning phone calls. And John Zwiers is blamed for informing a family member about a staffing problem in a manner that allegedly involved coaching from his employees present in the room.
Against this stern appraisal, another thread of feedback brings a more favorable note. Several lines celebrate the facility's appearance and the quality of its staff. "Beautiful facility. Great staff." Here is a counterpoint to the criticisms, suggesting that the location and some personnel may be performing well or at least present a positive front. The juxtaposition of aesthetic and interpersonal strength with the allegations of mismanagement creates a nuanced impression: the setting may be appealing and the people on the ground may have dedicated moments, but the overall experience for families can still be fraught with miscommunication and perceived mismanagement.
Billing and transparency form another major concern in the reviews. One reviewer points out a discrepancy between what is promised and what is charged: "These people say one thing then do/charge you for what was supposed to be included. Make sure you check your bill." The implication is that there are hidden or confusing costs that may not be fully disclosed up front, adding financial stress to an already emotionally charged situation. This complaint about billing practices reinforces the broader call for clearer communication and accountability from the leadership and the care team.
Value statements and customer ideals surface at the end of the set of reviews as a kind of litmus test. The line "Integrity, Compassion, Dedicated, Teamwork, and Customer Service. Need I say more?" seems to reflect a belief that the organization publicly touts these values, yet the eyewitness accounts raise questions about whether they consistently translate into everyday practice. The tension between the stated values and the reported experiences can be interpreted as a clash between branding and reality, where promises do not always align with outcomes for families seeking support.
Taken together, these impressions sketch a complex portrait of Woodlawn Lodge. The facility is praised for its beauty and some staff members, while simultaneous criticisms focus on communication failures, questionable leadership behavior, and billing practices that prompt careful scrutiny. For families considering care, the reviews underscore the importance of asking pointed questions: about weekly updates and accessibility of the care team, about the specifics of what services are included in billing, and about the processes used by leadership to address staffing and care concerns.
If you are evaluating Woodlawn Lodge, these notes suggest taking a balanced, highly informed approach. Visit in person with questions ready, request a clear written outline of included services and potential extra charges, and seek direct conversations with leadership about how they ensure consistent communication with families. It may also be prudent to talk to multiple staff members and, if possible, obtain references from other families with firsthand experiences. The goal is to form a complete picture that weighs the beautiful facility and dedicated staff against the reported challenges in care coordination, accountability, and transparency.
21 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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. 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 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 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 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 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. 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.Lutheran Brethren Home Care in Fergus Falls, MN is an assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The community provides fully furnished accommodations with options for cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, telephone, and housekeeping services to maintain a clean and organized living space.
Residents can enjoy delicious meals in the dining room, prepared by the staff who are also able to accommodate special dietary restrictions like diabetes diets. A mental wellness program is available to support residents' emotional and psychological well-being.
Care services include 24-hour supervision, assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, as well as transfers. The staff at Lutheran Brethren Home Care can also coordinate with health care providers to ensure residents receive necessary medical attention and medication management.
This community also offers move-in coordination services for a smooth transition into their new home. Outdoor spaces and gardens provide opportunities for relaxation and enjoying nature. Transportation arrangements can be made for medical appointments, ensuring residents have access to necessary healthcare services.
Residents can participate in resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities to stay engaged and entertained. Additionally, there are numerous nearby amenities including cafes, parks, pharmacies, doctors' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals.
At Lutheran Brethren Home Care in Fergus Falls, MN, residents can expect exceptional care in a comfortable environment with access to a variety of amenities and nearby attractions.
Lutheran Brethren Home Care is located at 418 East Alcott Avenue, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 in Otter Tail County, Minnesota
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