St Luke Lutheran Community Portage Lakes

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St Luke Lutheran Community Portage Lakes

St Luke Lutheran Community Portage Lakes

615 Latham Lane, Akron, OH 44319

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

4.1 from 68 reviews
5 stars
48
4 stars
3
3 stars
3
2 stars
2
1 stars
12

Assisted Living Skilled Nursing Facility

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    Overall Review of St Luke Lutheran Community Portage Lakes

    Pros

    • pro Andrea is an exceptional caregiver who goes above and beyond.
    • pro The staff are caring, kind, and treat residents like family.
    • pro Kailey, the unit manager, is fantastic and always brings a smile.
    • pro The facility is in a beautiful location with lake views all year long.
    • pro Andrea Gooden is consistently helpful, compassionate, and responsive to families.
    • pro The entire staff provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
    • pro Leslie, the activities director, offers a variety of enjoyable options.
    • pro Saint Luke's Portage Lakes is a hidden gem with pristine lake views and a calming environment.
    • pro Residents enjoy boat rides and other enjoyable activities on Portage Lakes.

    Cons

    • pro The facility is unsafe and neglectful; residents are left waiting hours on call lights, some have had to call 911 for help, and residents have been left sitting on bedpans for over an hour.
    • pro Basic care is ignored; the facility stocks only one size of briefs (medium) and forces them onto every resident, even a 300 lb resident who clearly needs a 3XL; the briefs don't close and residents are left exposed and humiliated; shipments are delayed and upper management tells staff to wait for the shipment rather than purchasing supplies.
    • pro Management is disorganized and unprofessional - one manager regularly leaves during shifts for personal matters, and another is unstable even by coworkers' own admission.
    • pro The 36 residents deserve dignity, safety, and proper care - and they are not getting it.
    • pro Families should strongly consider moving their loved ones elsewhere.

    Review

    Saint Luke's Lutheran Community at Portage Lakes emerges in the collection of notes as a place that many families choose because of its setting and because of the people who work there. The lake views and the overall atmosphere are repeatedly praised, with many reviewers calling the facility a "hidden gem" and a place where residents can feel calm and well cared for. Central to these impressions is the leadership of the Director of Nursing, Andrea, who is described in almost every line as compassionate, capable, and deeply committed to the residents' well-being.

    At the heart of the praise is Andrea, often identified as DON, who is repeatedly singled out as "amazing," "exceptional," and the reason families feel confident in leaving their loved ones in the facility's care. Reviewers note that Andrea is not only skilled but genuinely kind and involved with both residents and families. Her presence is described as reassuring, and several accounts emphasize how she answers questions, keeps families informed, and leads a nursing team that treats residents with dignity. Other members of the leadership team, such as unit manager Kailey, are also highlighted for their warmth and professionalism; Kailey is described as fantastic, with a reassuring smile and a consistent presence that residents and families notice and appreciate.

    The staff as a whole is frequently depicted as caring, knowledgeable, and approachable. One reviewer writes that the nurses and staff "are some of the best around," and another notes that the staff are consistently kind, patient, and attentive to the individual needs of residents, including those with younger onset needs or specific medical histories. Several testimonials emphasize a home-like environment created by the staff, where residents feel respected, safe, and valued. A recurring theme is the sense of continuity and personal connection - the same caregivers providing attentive, personalized care and forming meaningful relationships with residents and their families.

    Family members provide powerful, heartfelt stories about life at the facility. One account describes a father who has remained stable and is thriving under the attentive care of the nursing team, with particular appreciation for Andrea Gooden (another reference to Andrea by surname) and the rest of the staff who respond quickly, keep families informed, and help residents stay engaged in activities. The activities program itself is repeatedly praised, with Leslie, the activities director, highlighted for offering a variety of enjoyable options. The reviews describe residents participating in boating, fishing, and even a prom or other special events, with comments about how these activities bring joy and meaning to daily life. The overall message is that the team's efforts extend beyond basic care to nurture a sense of purpose and happiness for residents.

    Another dimension that comes through strongly is the way the facility collaborates with external partners to enhance care. A family member describes a positive partnership with Harmony Hospice and notes the facility's commitment to ethics and resident-first care. The sense of teamwork - between hospice providers, nursing staff, and administration - helps reinforce the impression that the residents are central to everything the facility does. For many families, this collaboration appears integral to the peace of mind they feel when their loved ones are living at Portage Lakes.

    There is, however, one review that diverges from the otherwise glowing chorus. This review raises serious concerns about safety, care standards, and management. The reviewer describes residents left waiting long periods on call lights, the use of a single size of briefs that do not fit all residents, and a series of operational problems that purportedly led to distress and dignity concerns for residents. They accuse upper management of disorganization and unprofessional behavior, suggesting that staff were told to wait for shipments rather than addressing immediate needs. The reviewer also notes that 36 residents deserve better care and implies that families should consider other facilities. The message suggests a broader context in which some families may choose to move their loved ones elsewhere based on those reported experiences, and it even goes so far as to name other nursing homes as potential alternatives.

    Taken together, the stories paint a nuanced portrait of Saint Luke's Portage Lakes. The overwhelming pattern is one of exceptional leadership, especially from Andrea, and a caregiving environment that values compassion, dignity, and family engagement. The lakefront setting is consistently framed as a serene, inspiring backdrop to the caregivers' work, contributing to a sense of home for residents. The facility's commitment to meaningful activities, transparent communication with families, and partnerships with hospice providers further underscore the depth of care that many families associate with Portage Lakes. Yet the single negative account serves as an important reminder that, as with any care setting, experiences can vary, and ongoing attention to safety, supplies, and management processes remains essential.

    For families evaluating Saint Luke's Lutheran Community at Portage Lakes, the prevailing sentiment across most reviews is one of confidence and gratitude. The leadership of Andrea, the supportive role of Kailey, and the dedication of Leslie and the rest of the staff form the backbone of a community many residents and families would choose again. The positive testimonials about care, communication, and a nurturing environment are reinforced by stories of residents thriving, feeling respected, and enjoying activities that enrich their daily lives. If you are seeking a facility where a compassionate team seems to genuinely put residents first, Portage Lakes is described by many as an excellent choice - while also recognizing that any decision should involve careful consideration of all available information, including concerns raised in a single, outlier review.

    Features

    Housing

    • 30 resident community capacity 30 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.
    • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

    Amenities

    • Activities on-site 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 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.
    • Devotional services off-site 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 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.
    • Indoor common areas 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.
    • 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.
    • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
    • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
    • 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

    • Akron-Canton Regional (6 miles away) Akron-Canton Regional (6 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.
    • Ambulatory care 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 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.
    • 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.
    • Diabetic care 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 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.

    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.
    • Meals provided 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 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

    • Activities on-site 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 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.
    • Devotional activities offsite 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 activities 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 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

    St Luke Lutheran Community Portage Lakes in Akron, OH is a skilled nursing facility that offers a range of care services for seniors. The community provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and transfers. They also offer specialized care for those with diabetes, including meal preparation and assistance with diet management.

    Residents at St Luke Lutheran Community can enjoy a variety of amenities to enhance their lifestyle. The community features a beauty salon for residents who want to pamper themselves and stay looking their best. Cable or satellite TV is available in the accommodations for entertainment purposes. Off-site devotional services are also offered to cater to the spiritual needs of the residents.

    Dining at the community is a pleasant experience with restaurant-style dining provided. Meals are prepared according to special dietary restrictions if required by residents. The community also organizes community-sponsored activities, resident-run activities, and scheduled daily activities to keep residents engaged and entertained.

    The community is conveniently located near several cafes, pharmacies, physicians, and restaurants, ensuring easy access to necessary services outside the facility. In addition to these amenities and services, St Luke Lutheran Community provides housekeeping services, move-in coordination assistance, indoor common areas for socializing, outdoor spaces such as gardens for relaxation, small libraries for reading enthusiasts, telephones in each accommodation, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet connectivity.

    Overall, St Luke Lutheran Community Portage Lakes offers comprehensive care services in a comfortable living environment.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Restaurants

    • Guiseppe's Pizza (0.9 miles)
    • Dietz's Landing (1.2 miles)
    • Lala's In The Lakes (1.6 miles)
    • Pav's Creamery (2.4 miles)
    • Biggins' Big Dip (2.7 miles)
    • The Basement Spor (3 miles)
    • McDonald's (3 miles)

    Physicians

    • Womens Health Group (2.9 miles)
    • Akron General Family Medicine, South Central (3 miles)
    • Obstetrics & Gynecology of the Reserve (3.1 miles)
    • Comprehensive Pain Management Specialists (4 miles)
    • Children's Hospital Physicians Associates (4.1 miles)
    • Akron Children's Hospital Pediatrics - Green (4.2 miles)
    • Roholt Vision Institute (7.3 miles)

    Cafes

    • Starbucks (3.3 miles)
    • Starbucks (7.9 miles)
    • Starbucks (8.9 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • CVS Pharmacy (4 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (4.2 miles)
    • Acme Fresh Market (4.2 miles)
    • Marc's Stores (4.7 miles)
    • Rite Aid (4.7 miles)
    • Walgreens (4.7 miles)
    • Walgreens (5.1 miles)

    Parks

    • Southgate Park (5.3 miles)
    • Ariss Park (5.6 miles)
    • Summit Lake Park (6.5 miles)
    • Silver Creek Park (7.6 miles)
    • North Park (7.7 miles)

    Transportation

    • Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) (6.6 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Faith Family Church (7.6 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Akron Children's Hospital (8 miles)
    • Summa Akron City Hospital (8.3 miles)
    • Jackson Mercy Statcare (8.8 miles)

    Theaters

    • Tinseltown (8.6 miles)
    • Cinemark (9.1 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is St Luke Lutheran Community Portage Lakes?

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