The Beacon At Le Center III

638 Southbend Avenue, Mankato, MN 56001

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

3.2 from 38 reviews
5 stars
19
4 stars
1
3 stars
0
2 stars
3
1 stars
15

Assisted Living

Overall Review of The Beacon At Le Center III

Pros

  • pro Monarch Healthcare Management is described as a front runner in driving positive changes in short-term rehabilitation and long-term healthcare.
  • pro Monarch truly cares about its residents as well as its staff, and it shows through engaging events like Monarch Mondays and food truck celebrations.
  • pro Monarch offers numerous training opportunities and believes in promoting from within.
  • pro Oaklawn Rehabilitation Center's staff have gone above and beyond in the care of residents.
  • pro Monarch responds quickly to calls about questions, and its staff are knowledgeable and friendly.
  • pro The administration is committed to providing resources to promote excellent care for residents, with a culture of kindness, compassion, and respect.
  • pro Monarch is described as a wonderful company to work for and a great place to start or advance a career.
  • pro The facilities are described as homey, with staff who are caring, knowledgeable, and very friendly.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer says The Beacon of LC has poor quality of care due to ongoing staff turnover and untrained staff, and that Monarch has not provided quality care.
  • pro The reviewer notes that attempts to check on their mother are met with no answer, or are transferred to non-existent extensions or hung up on.
  • pro The reviewer claims Monarch fires nurses for advocating for residents, implying retaliation against advocacy.
  • pro The reviewer states Monarch advertises jobs that are not true, misrepresenting opportunities.
  • pro The reviewer describes a toxic work environment with low pay and high turnover, and management that underpays and mismanages.
  • pro The Estates facility is criticized because Monarch took over and did little to improve quality of life, with outdated laundry equipment and staff quitting.

Review

A chorus of experiences converges around Monarch Healthcare Management and the facilities it runs, painting a picture that is at once praising of individual caregivers and critical of broader organizational practices. On one hand, families and residents describe devoted staff, quick responses to inquiries, and a homey, caring atmosphere at certain centers. On the other hand, a number of reviewers allege systemic problems - staff turnover, undertrained personnel, misleading job advertisements, and management that they feel does not prioritize quality care or fair treatment of employees. The stories span several facilities and years, with both short-term visits and long-term residency shaping the impressions.

A common thread among several reviews is the sense that some Monarch facilities deliver responsive, personable care. One commenter notes that Monarch itself responds quickly to questions and that the Oaklawn Rehabilitation Center staff have "gone above and beyond" in caring for a relative, describing the facility as "homey" and the staff as knowledgeable and friendly. In another vein, a different reviewer emphasizes that the administration there is committed to providing resources for excellent resident care, attributing to the culture a foundation of kindness, compassion, and respect. For some families, these elements create moments of trust and gratitude, with staff who feel invested in residents' well-being and who make efforts to engage and support both residents and their families.

Yet the picture is not uniformly positive. Several reviewers raise serious concerns about care quality, especially at facilities under Monarch's umbrella that they perceive as under-resourced or poorly managed. One family laments the experience at The Beacon of LC, expressing dissatisfaction with the quality of care for a mother and highlighting staff turnover and untrained staff as ongoing issues. They also mention trouble getting through on the phone - extensions that don't exist or long holds - painting a frustrating portrait of communication gaps. Others describe broader concerns about neglect in dietary and laundry services at a Monarch-run facility, suggesting that cost-cutting measures have compromised day-to-day quality of life for residents.

There is also a strong thread of warning for prospective employees and for families considering the company's hiring promises. A number of reviews claim that Monarch advertises jobs that aren't truly available or accurately described, and a former employee accuses management of cultivating a culture that prompts workers to post positive reviews while residents suffer from inconsistent care. Multiple accounts allege racial discrimination in the workplace, concerns about pay, and a revolving door of management that leaves direct care under strain. One particularly emphatic post accuses Monarch of not valuing direct care, with examples ranging from pay rates described as "very low" to a sense that employees who advocate for residents may be punished or fired. Another reviewer warns prospective nurses to "be careful" because the company has allegedly fired or targeted staff who push for advocacy or improved resident welfare.

Despite these warnings, many reviews celebrate the internal culture of growth and appreciation for staff. Several posters characterize Monarch as a company that genuinely values its workforce, praising programs that aim to recognize and reward employees, such as themed events, food truck celebrations, and "Monarch Mondays." They describe Monarch as a place where training opportunities abound, where internal promotions are possible, and where people can start or advance a career in healthcare. A number of reviews emphasize the belief that Monarch encourages leadership development and promotes from within, presenting a narrative of upward mobility and professional development that contrasts sharply with the criticisms of low pay and high turnover found in other posts.

The Estates in St. Louis Park offers another microcosm of the mixed feedback. A long-running resident there describes a deterioration in daily life since Monarch took over in late 2017, particularly pointing to aging laundry machines and a perception that staff have been quitting in larger numbers. The comment paints a bleak picture of the facility's operations - while praising some individual staff for their caring approach, the overall tone suggests that systemic problems have overwhelmed certain basic services like washing and drying clothes. The same review notes that maintenance staff did what they could, even coming in on a day off to try and fix machines, underscoring the sense of strain on facilities and the impact on residents.

Taken together, the reviews present a multifaceted portrait of Monarch Healthcare Management: a company that some experiences depict as a committed, employee-centered organization with opportunities for growth and a culture of care; and others depict as a corporation with serious leadership, staffing, and communication challenges that can undermine resident well-being and staff morale. Individual experiences vary by facility, by role, and by moment in time. For families evaluating Monarch-affiliated centers, these accounts suggest the importance of visiting facilities personally, speaking with direct care staff and management, and asking pointed questions about staffing levels, training, pay, PTO policies, and how resident advocacy is handled.

In sum, the collection of reviews reveals both meaningful praise and troubling concerns that recurred across different sites and over multiple years. Some residents and family members report prompt communication, compassionate care, and staff who treat residents with dignity. Others describe ineffective phones and administration, undertrained staff, frequent turnover, and a culture they perceive as prioritizing cost-cutting or profits over the daily realities of care. The divergent threads imply that the experience of Monarch Healthcare Management is not monolithic; it depends heavily on the specific facility, the leadership at a given time, and the ongoing ability of staff and administrators to sustain consistent, high-quality care and open channels of communication.

Features

Housing

  • 21 resident community capacity 21 resident community capacity

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.

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.

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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Description

The Beacon at Le Center III is an assisted living community located in Mankato, MN. Our community offers a wide range of amenities to ensure our residents have a comfortable and enjoyable living experience. Each apartment is fully furnished and comes with cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and a telephone. Residents can also enjoy the beautiful outdoor space and garden.

Our dedicated staff provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We coordinate with health care providers to ensure our residents receive the care they need. Our staff also assists with medication management and provides diabetes diet support.

At The Beacon at Le Center III, we understand that each resident has unique dietary needs, which is why we offer special dietary restrictions options for dining. Our meal preparation and service are tailored to meet our residents' individual preferences.

We believe in promoting mental wellness among our residents, which is why we offer a mental wellness program to encourage social engagement and cognitive stimulation. Additionally, we provide scheduled daily activities to keep our residents active and engaged.

Our community is conveniently located near numerous amenities. There are four cafes nearby for residents to enjoy a cup of coffee or a snack. For those who love nature, there are eight parks nearby where they can take walks or enjoy outdoor activities. There are also 11 pharmacies and 18 physicians in close proximity for easy access to medical services.

For dining out options, there are 31 restaurants nearby offering various cuisines for residents to explore. We also provide transportation arrangements for medical appointments as well as transportation to doctors' appointments.

Residents can find spiritual fulfillment with twelve places of worship nearby. For entertainment purposes, there is one theater in the vicinity for outings.

Furthermore, our community is located near two hospitals to provide quick access to emergency medical care if needed.

At The Beacon at Le Center III, we strive to provide a comfortable and enriching lifestyle for our residents, with a focus on personalized care and a wide range of amenities and services.

Nearby Places of Interest

Parks

  • Land of Memories Park (0.5 miles)
  • Sibley Park (0.8 miles)
  • Spring Lake Park (2.2 miles)
  • Minneopa Falls (2.3 miles)
  • Seven Mile Creek County Park (2.4 miles)
  • Highland Park (2.4 miles)
  • Riverfront Park (2.7 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Evangelical Covenant Church (1 miles)
  • Life Family Church (1.4 miles)
  • Resurrection Lutheran Church (2.2 miles)
  • Campus Lutheran Chapel (2.2 miles)
  • St Boniface's Chapel (2.3 miles)
  • St Peter & Paul's Catholic Church-Office, Theresa House (2.6 miles)
  • Immanuel Lutheran School (2.6 miles)

Physicians

  • Ecumen Pathstone Store (1.1 miles)
  • Primrose Mental Health (2 miles)
  • Student Health Services (2.1 miles)
  • Southern Minnesota Surgical (2.2 miles)
  • Msu-Student Health Services (2.4 miles)
  • Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic (2.4 miles)
  • Eiselt, Tracye O.D. (2.4 miles)

Restaurants

  • Burger King (1.4 miles)
  • Little Caesars Pizza (1.6 miles)
  • Subway (1.8 miles)
  • Culver's (2 miles)
  • Pagliai's Pizza (2 miles)
  • Pub 500 (2 miles)
  • Burrito Wings (2.1 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Supervalu (1.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.6 miles)
  • Thrifty White Pharmacy (4.3 miles)

Hospitals

  • Mankato House Health Care Center (2 miles)
  • The Thro Company (3 miles)

Cafes

  • Coffee Hag (2.5 miles)
  • Caribou Coffee (2.5 miles)
  • Caribou Coffee (4.1 miles)
  • Panera Bread (4.9 miles)
  • Peet's Coffee and Tea (5.1 miles)

Transportation

  • Taxi Pros (3.4 miles)
  • U-Save Auto Rental (4.5 miles)
  • Mankato Regional Airport (MKT) (7.8 miles)

Theaters

  • Cinemark Theaters (4.8 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is The Beacon At Le Center III?

Nearby Communities

Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

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