Augustana Emerald Crest III in Minnetonka, MN

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  • Interior

    A cozy modern bedroom featuring a comfortable bed, stylish decor, and abundant natural light.
  • Decor

    A modern bedroom featuring a cozy seating area, neutral color palette, and stylish decor.
  • Architecture

    A charming single-story house with well-maintained landscaping and a clear blue sky.
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Augustana Emerald Crest III in Minnetonka, MN

Information last verified:

13401 Lake Street Extension, Minnetonka, MN 55305

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

3.4 from 7 reviews
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Overall Review of Augustana Emerald Crest III

Pros

  • pro The staff treat residents with respect and dignity beyond expectations.
  • pro Visitors are always welcomed.
  • pro The staff make families feel like part of the family.
  • pro The pastor, Arlen, is loving and compassionate with all residents.
  • pro Emerald Crest Minnetonka is a beautiful, peaceful, and loving place for loved ones.
  • pro Emerald Crest Minnetonka has been a wonderful placement for a resident’s mom.
  • pro The facility provides 24-hour care and the caretakers are wonderful.
  • pro The programs for the mind, music therapies, and entertainment are available.
  • pro The facility has its own pastor who visits weekly.
  • pro The homes are all on one level with twelve residents per house.

Cons

  • pro Emerald Crest Memory Care is like a prison for the elderly.
  • pro A relative starved themselves to death at this facility because they were so depressed and had no control over their life.
  • pro A family member forced the relative into care against their will.
  • pro The relative had no way to call out to talk to people.
  • pro Other residents would enter the relative's room, trying to take things.
  • pro Staff didn't monitor everyone.
  • pro The relative became depressed and lost their appetite; they grew so weak they couldn't eat without assistance.
  • pro Staff would push a tray of food into the room and leave, not helping the relative eat or drink.
  • pro The relative lost their will to live because the person entrusted with decisions wanted to put them away, and they benefited financially.
  • pro The facility is understaffed and the manager is heartless.
  • pro People are locked in the building; visitors cannot exit without staff assistance.
  • pro The staff were hard to reach for assistance throughout the day.
  • pro A resident fell, didn’t receive timely assistance, and died within a week.
  • pro The meals were not as claimed, often not suitable to eat, with many served as bologna sandwiches.

Review

Emerald Crest III in Minnetonka is best suited for memory-care residents who crave a home-like, small-house environment where staff form close, ongoing relationships and spiritual life is integrated into daily routines. The three-house model, each house with about a dozen residents and all on one level, creates an intimate, manageable setting that supports steady supervision and predictable rhythms. Families prioritizing dignity, respectful treatment, and strong, personal contact with caregivers will often find the fit here, as will those who value pastoral support and structured memory-care programming as part of daily life. Those who want ironclad staffing levels, immediate, around-the-clock responsiveness, or aggressive safety measures may want to consider alternatives.

Praises consistently center on the human side of care. Residents are described as treated with dignity, and families feel genuinely welcomed and supported. The staff are portrayed as caring, responsive, and capable of forming a sense of family around residents. A dedicated pastor and meaningful spiritual programming anchor the day for many residents, and music therapies and cognitive activities add mental engagement. The small-house, intimate layout, the hallmark of Emerald Crest III, supports neighborly interaction and frequent staff contact, while 24-hour care helps ensure that help is available when needed. For families who value a loving, community-oriented atmosphere, these positives form a meaningful counterweight to the facility’s more challenging notes.

However, the picture is decisively mixed in other reviews. Understaffing and uneven availability of staff are recurring concerns, with several accounts describing difficulty obtaining timely assistance or even feeling locked in at times. A harsh memory-care experience is mentioned by at least one family, including allegations of neglective practices, meals that did not meet needs, and safety gaps that culminated in a resident’s death following delays in help. The doors being described as locked and staff responsiveness as inconsistent have been cited as serious safety red flags. Food quality and overall daily responsiveness appear to fluctuate, which matters greatly in a memory-care setting where routine and trust are essential.

Those pros and cons intersect in meaningful ways. When staff are present, engaged, and approachable, the small-house model and the integrated spiritual program can significantly offset concerns about staffing by providing steady, familiar faces and a sense of belonging. The continuity of care in a three-house progression, from initial memory-care needs to more advanced stages, can help families feel that their loved one is in a setting attuned to the trajectory of memory loss, with specialized programming and a consistent care team. Yet the most troubling reports, loss of independence through restricted access, delayed assistance during critical moments, and questions about safety management, can erode trust quickly and elevate risk, especially for families balancing reliability and safety with beloved routines.

Alternatives should be considered by families prioritizing rapid response times, rigorous staffing standards, and transparent safety practices. If continuous, unambiguous supervision is nonnegotiable, or if there is a history of wandering risks, consider facilities with higher staff-to-resident ratios and stronger incident-tracking cultures. Prospective residents who require a consistently open environment, where exits are not restricted and intervention is immediate, may find a better fit elsewhere. Additionally, families wary of mixed experiences across shifts, or who require highly consistent culinary standards and daily care, may want to compare other campuses with uniform ratings and more predictable day-to-day execution.

Practical steps sharpen the decision. Schedule in-person tours and ask pointed questions about staff coverage by shift, the process for emergencies, and how meals are planned and served. Speak directly with current residents and their families about typical response times, safety practices, and how the memory-care progression is managed across the three houses. Request recent activity logs, incident reports, and inspection results, and verify contract terms, especially regarding staffing commitments and care-plan updates. If possible, visit at different times of day to observe interactions, meals, and the level of staff presence. When values align, dignity, spiritual enrichment, intimate care, and reliable safety, Emerald Crest III can be a compassionate home; when they do not, alternatives deserve a careful, priority place in the decision process.

Features

Housing

  • 21 resident community capacity 21 resident community capacity
  • Studio apartments Studio apartmentsStudio apartments are important for seniors because they offer a smaller, more manageable living space that is easier to navigate and maintain as physical abilities decline. Additionally, studio apartments provide seniors with independence and privacy while still being part of a community that offers support and social opportunities.

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.
  • Memory Care 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.

Amenities

  • Beauty salon 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 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.
  • Kitchenette 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 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

  • Minneapolis-St Paul International (12 miles away) Minneapolis-St Paul International (12 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 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 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.
  • Dementia waiver 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 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.
  • Hospice waiver 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 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.
  • Mental wellness program 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"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 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.
  • Specialized memory care programming 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 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.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in 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.

Languages Spoken

  • English EnglishEnglish is important for seniors as it allows them to communicate effectively with healthcare providers, understand important information related to their health and medications, stay connected with loved ones, and engage in social activities within their communities. It also opens up opportunities for lifelong learning and intellectual stimulation.

Description

Augustana Emerald Crest III is a memory care assisted living community located in Minnetonka, MN. Our community is specifically designed to provide specialized care and support for individuals with memory loss conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

At Augustana Emerald Crest III, we understand the unique needs of our residents and strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for them. Each apartment is fully furnished and includes cable or satellite TV, a telephone, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access. Residents can also enjoy the beautiful outdoor spaces, including a garden.

Our dedicated staff provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also offer medication management services to ensure the health and well-being of our residents. In addition, we coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure that each resident receives appropriate medical care.

We understand the importance of nutrition in overall health, which is why we offer special dietary restrictions options for our residents. Our skilled culinary team prepares delicious meals that cater to specific dietary needs. Dining takes place in our spacious dining room where residents can socialize with fellow residents.

To promote mental wellness, we have a mental wellness program that includes specialized memory care programming. This program focuses on engaging activities and exercises that help stimulate cognitive functions. Residents can also participate in fitness programs and scheduled daily activities to stay active and engaged.

For convenience, our community provides move-in coordination services as well as transportation arrangements for medical appointments. For added peace of mind, there are several cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship nearby along with a hospital.

Choosing Augustana Emerald Crest III means choosing a compassionate and supportive environment where your loved one's memory care needs are met with dignity and respect. We invite you to visit our community to experience the warm atmosphere and exceptional care firsthand.

Nearby Places of Interest

The Minnetonka, Minnesota area offers a variety of amenities and services that would be beneficial for seniors looking to relocate to the area. With a range of restaurants including Duke's On 7 and The Cheesecake Factory, there are plenty of dining options to enjoy. Additionally, there are several pharmacies nearby such as Walgreens for convenient access to prescriptions and medical supplies. For healthcare needs, there are reputable physicians and hospitals such as Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota's Ear, Nose and Throat and Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital within a short distance. Places of worship like St Therese of Deephaven and Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church provide spiritual support, while parks like Aquila Park offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. Cafes like Angel Food Bakery & Coffee Bar provide a cozy setting for socializing with friends. Overall, this part of Minnetonka offers a blend of convenience, healthcare services, recreational activities, and social opportunities for seniors considering senior living in the area.

Restaurants

  • Duke's On 7 (1.4 miles)
  • Taco Teresa's (2.8 miles)
  • The Cheesecake Factory (2.9 miles)
  • Kona Grill (3 miles)
  • Taco Bell (3 miles)
  • BLVD Kitchen & Bar (3.3 miles)
  • Olive Garden (3.3 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (1.5 miles)
  • Love Shack (2.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (4 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.4 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.8 miles)

Physicians

  • Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota's Ear, Nose and Throat (2.2 miles)
  • Ellgaard Annemarie Park Nicollet Clinic Carlson Parkway Minnetonka (3.3 miles)
  • Metropolitan Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery PA (3.9 miles)
  • Park Nicollet Clinic (5.4 miles)
  • Northwest Family Physicians Plymouth (5.4 miles)
  • MN Otolaryngology (6.2 miles)
  • Twin Cities Orthopedics Edina - Crosstown (6.4 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Therese of Deephaven (3.2 miles)
  • Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church (3.2 miles)
  • Grace Church (6.5 miles)

Parks

  • Aquila Park (3.4 miles)
  • Dakota Dog Park (4.9 miles)
  • Parkers Lake Park (4.9 miles)
  • McGuire Park (5.1 miles)
  • Bandimere Heights Park (6.2 miles)
  • French Regional Park (6.5 miles)
  • Lake Ann Park (6.7 miles)

Cafes

  • Angel Food Bakery & Coffee Bar (3.6 miles)
  • Jinx Tea (5.9 miles)
  • Panera Bread (6.2 miles)
  • Caribou Coffee (6.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.2 miles)

Hospitals

  • Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital (4.3 miles)
  • Abbott Northwestern Center For Outpatient Care (5.3 miles)
  • Fairview Southdale Hospital (6.6 miles)
  • Plymouth Surgery Center (6.9 miles)
  • Regency Hospital (7.3 miles)

Theaters

  • 0705 Amc Southdale 16 (6.9 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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