Brookdale Union Park

Pros

• The staff at Brookdale Union Park is described as incredible, helpful, and friendly, creating a welcoming environment for residents.
• Many reviewers appreciate the quality of care provided by the team, noting their willingness to discuss concerns openly and honestly.
• Residents and their families enjoyed the diverse options for activities and meals that cater to dietary restrictions.
• The cleanliness of the facility was highlighted positively, with specific mention of freshly painted rooms upon arrival.
• The director of the facility is praised for her approachability and dedication to caring for the elderly residents.
• Families found value in the services offered, including a wonderful hair stylist who visits weekly, enhancing residents' overall well-being.
• Reviewers felt that Brookdale Union Park was a great fit for their loved ones, with many expressing satisfaction with their decision to choose this facility.

Cons

• The head nurse was rude and lacked compassion towards the residents.
• The medical care was considered unreliable, with concerns about the qualifications of staff managing medical needs.
• Food quality was poor, often consisting of canned products and insufficient portions.
• There were serious safety concerns when a resident with a UTI was allowed to leave the facility unmonitored and in inclement weather.
• The move-in communication process was lacking, leading to confusion for new residents.
• A lack of sufficient staff resulted in poor monitoring of residents in the Memory Care facility, raising concerns about their safety and wellbeing.
• Families reported that management did not respond to concerns raised about care issues, indicating a lack of accountability.
• Some activities offered were limited and not engaging enough for residents, especially those with cognitive impairments.
• An unpleasant odor throughout the building made it unbearable for some visitors, leading them to reconsider placing their loved ones there.
• High "Activity Fees" added to already significant monthly costs without clear justification or value provided.

Review

Brookdale Union Park is a senior living facility that has drawn a range of opinions from residents and their families. Many have praised the overall atmosphere and positive interactions with staff, highlighting the friendliness and willingness to engage in open dialogue about any concerns. One reviewer noted that the team consistently tries to provide quality care, fostering an environment where family members feel heard when they express their worries regarding their loved ones’ well-being. The newly painted rooms and fresh carpeting upon arrival added to the initial positive impressions many had of the facility, reinforcing its image as a place dedicated to providing a comfortable home for its residents.

However, not all reviews paint such a rosy picture. While some families have lauded the supportive nature of various staff members, including dietary personnel who are mindful of specific dietary restrictions, others have pointed out significant flaws in care services. A recurrent theme among these critiques includes instances of inadequate medical oversight, particularly concerning patients with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or those experiencing acute issues such as UTIs. Concerns were raised about staff capabilities in managing medical needs and ensuring proper monitoring of residents, which sometimes resulted in alarming incidents like elopement events where disoriented residents wandered out into unsafe environments.

The dining experience at Brookdale Union Park received mixed reviews; while several reviewers remarked on outstanding meals that catered to dietary preferences, others complained vehemently about poor food quality and limited options available to residents. This inconsistency may significantly affect the day-to-day satisfaction for both residents and their families who wish for better dining alternatives as part of their loved ones' living experiences.

Activity offerings emerged as another point of contention within these reviews. Residents appreciated diverse activity options that kept engagement fresh but were also disappointed by what they perceived as a lackluster schedule filled mostly with bingo nights rather than varied activities tailored to cater to different interests or stages of cognitive health. Families voiced concerns about insufficient stimulation for those suffering from cognitive decline, emphasizing the need for more engaging activities designed specifically for individuals with dementia.

Communication emerged as another area identified for improvement by reviewers during both move-in processes and ongoing care situations. Some felt overwhelmed during transitions due to unclear schedules or expectations regarding services like laundry and recreational activities while others suggested enhanced communication channels could help clarify how best family members might assist their loved ones during transitions within Brookdale’s levels of care.

Finally, prospective residents are also advised caution based on some troubling reports regarding staffing levels and management practices prevalent throughout the establishment. Concerns related to understaffing in memory care units have led some families to resort to hiring additional private aides merely to ensure adequate attention is given to their loved ones’ daily needs. Reviews indicate rising frustration around “activity fees” charged on top of monthly costs already amounting up into thousands without any apparent reasoning provided for these additional charges.

In summary, Brookdale Union Park presents an array of advantages intertwined with notable shortcomings reflective of contemporary challenges faced by assisted living facilities today. While many found comfort through friendly staff interaction and personalized efforts made on behalf of residents' wellness – it is imperative for potential clients seeking placements here remain diligent in thoroughly assessing all aspects before fully committing themselves or their family partners into this community-based long-term living solution.

This area of Monroe, North Carolina offers a variety of amenities and services that cater to the needs and interests of seniors. With several parks nearby, such as Why Not An American Ark and Walnut Creek Park, seniors have plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Additionally, the presence of multiple places of worship provides spiritual fulfillment and a sense of community. Access to cafes like Bobbie's Community Store and The Collective Cafe offer convenient options for dining out or socializing with friends. The availability of reputable physicians and pharmacies ensures quality healthcare services are within reach. Furthermore, restaurants like Chick-Fil-A and Waxhaw Creamery offer diverse dining options for seniors to enjoy. For entertainment, Regal Stonecrest at Piper Glen theater is close by for seniors to catch a movie or live performance. Overall, this part of Monroe provides a well-rounded environment for senior living with access to essential services and recreational activities.

Parks

• Why Not An American Ark (3.8 miles)
• Walnut Creek Park (16.1 miles)
• Blakney Park (17 miles)

Places of Worship

• Greater Grace Community Missionary Baptist Church (5.4 miles)
• Galilee Baptist Church (8 miles)
• Bethlehem United Methodist Church (8.9 miles)
• Beulah Presbyterian Church (10 miles)
• Tabernacle United Methodist Church (12.6 miles)
• Mount Carmel (13.4 miles)
• Barnful of Quilts (13.7 miles)

Cafes

• Bobbie's Community Store (7.6 miles)
• The Collective Cafe (14.5 miles)
• Panera Bread (14.9 miles)
• Panera Bread (14.9 miles)
• Starbucks (15 miles)
• Lynn's Cafe (15.6 miles)
• Starbucks (16.7 miles)

Physicians

• Community Medical PA (8.6 miles)
• Sun Valley Family Physicians (8.8 miles)
• Lake Park Family Practice (10.2 miles)
• Waxhaw Family Physicians & Sports Medicine Center (13 miles)
• Kanelos Dino P MD (13.8 miles)
• Americare Health Family Medical Center (14.8 miles)
• Center For Wellness (15.3 miles)

Pharmacies

• Marshville Pharmacy & Surgical Supply (8.8 miles)
• Epic Pharmacies (8.8 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (9.2 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (10 miles)
• Walgreens (11.1 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (12.8 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (13.8 miles)

Restaurants

• Chick-Fil-A (9.8 miles)
• McDonald's (10.3 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (11 miles)
• Pelican's Snoballs (12.6 miles)
• The Dreamchaser's Brewery (12.7 miles)
• Capricci S True I (12.7 miles)
• Waxhaw Creamery (12.8 miles)

Theaters

• Regal Stonecrest at Piper Glen 4DX, IMAX & RPX (17.8 miles)