Skylark Memory Care

950 Skylark Place, Ashland, OR 97520

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

2.7 from 24 reviews
5 stars
9
4 stars
1
3 stars
0
2 stars
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1 stars
13

Assisted Living Memory Care

Overall Review of Skylark Memory Care

Pros

  • pro The staff at Skylark is incredible.
  • pro Sam was incredibly kind.
  • pro The building looks excellent and is kept clean.
  • pro The activities director is amazing and helpful.
  • pro Skylark is an awesome place and highly recommended.
  • pro Nurse Cindy is highly responsive to family concerns and promptly addresses health issues.
  • pro The care team is careful, competent, and genuinely cares, led by Tish.
  • pro The food program has improved and the food staff are very caring.
  • pro The monthly family dinners provide enjoyable entertainment and connection.

Cons

  • pro They claim Skylark has an unstable employee and do not recommend sending any family there.
  • pro They describe caregivers as unprofessional, including talking on FaceTime in the hall and giving tours of rooms via video.
  • pro They allege residents are left soiled and unwashed for weeks with calls for help ignored.
  • pro They state med techs sometimes left Tylenol in a water glass and failed to promptly address medical needs, risking resident safety.
  • pro They say the facility is chronically understaffed with poor communication, and that corporate priorities money over care.
  • pro They report a manager threatened to involve Adult Protective Services over a family complaint.
  • pro They complain about food quality, describing meals as cold, unappetizing, or otherwise inadequate.
  • pro They claim frequent staff turnover and lack of continuity of care.
  • pro They note repeated long-term care insurance paperwork/billing errors and delays attributed to Skylark's administration.

Review

Skylark Care Community sits at the center of a spectrum of experiences shared by families who have trusted their loved ones to its care. On one end, there are deeply human moments of warmth and competence: a grandmother's final days met with kindness from the staff, a memory-care unit that feels attentive, clean, and engaged, and a team of workers who genuinely appear to care about the people they serve. On the other end, there are stark, troubling accounts of neglect, miscommunication, and unsafe conditions that have driven some families to question whether Skylark is the right place for a loved one. Taken together, the collection of reviews paints a nuanced portrait of a facility that can feel like a lifeline in some moments and a source of fear in others.

Several reviews highlight the human side of Skylark in glowing terms. Families describe the staff as remarkably kind, patient, and comforting during some of life's hardest moments. One account recalls walking through the building "on the verge of tears" and being met with warmth and care, with a special shout-out to Sam for his exceptional kindness. The initial contact, the smooth process of admission, and the teamwork around paperwork are praised as well, with Skylar singled out for making the onboarding feel effortless. The environment is also praised: a clean, well-kept building with lots of activities and a capable maintenance team, including Mike, who is viewed as accommodating and helpful during transitions. Activities directors and food staff are described as caring and involved, contributing to a sense that Skylark is a place where residents can stay engaged and enjoy their meals and routines. In several testimonials, family members note the value of community meals, live music, and cultural activities such as hula dancers, which help residents feel connected and valued.

Caregiver leadership and improvements under local management are another bright thread. A care manager who visits daily describes Skylark as having moved in a positive direction over the past year. Under the leadership of Tish, staff are seen as careful, competent, and adequately supported. There is particular appreciation for the food program's improvements and the way staff engage with residents' needs, with praise for how the team communicates with families and coordinates care. In one moving reflection, a family member shares that their loved one arrived in fair health, received skilled attention for medical issues, and was kept clean, comfortable, and oriented to daily activities. Even when the resident could no longer care for themselves, the staff's attentiveness - help with dressing, bathing, medication management, maintenance, and social engagement - left the family feeling reassured and grateful.

Individual caregiving stories testify to both the everyday successes and the extraordinary moments of care. A reviewer who moved their mom into Skylark in 2024 notes that their mother was happy, well dressed, and involved in activities, with staff consistently attentive to needs and ready to assist with daily routines. They highlight the nursing team, especially a nurse named Cindy, who responds quickly to health concerns and maintains open lines of communication with families and care providers, making everyone feel secure in the level of care. The overall sense conveyed is that when Skylark functions at its best, families feel supported, residents feel seen, and care is delivered with a calm, confident attentiveness.

But the picture is not uniformly favorable. A substantial number of reviews raise serious safety, staffing, and quality-of-care concerns. Some accounts describe unstable or unprofessional staff, with criticisms ranging from casual use of personal devices during duty hours to a general sense that staffing levels and continuity have suffered. One reviewer explicitly labeled an employee as unstable, while another described a troubling scene where a caregiver was seemingly guiding a resident on FaceTime through the halls, a practice that undermined professionalism and privacy. There are grave health and safety claims as well: medications mishandled or delayed, residents left in soiled conditions for extended periods, and suggestions that med changes or sedation were not administered according to orders. In one distressing report, a med tech allegedly left Tylenol in a water glass with an expectation that someone else would consume it, and then walked away, while another caregiver reportedly failed to respond to a resident in need for more than 24 hours.

The negative reviews also include concerns about turnover and communication. The same voices warn of frequent staff changes, inconsistent care, and inadequate follow-through on promises. Several reviewers describe a pattern of under-staffing, poor phone access, and administrative bottlenecks, including difficulties with insurance documentation and claims processing that extended over months and required direct intervention by families or outside entities. One account from 2019 details a prolonged struggle with long-term care insurance paperwork and invoicing, culminating in the sense that corporate directions may be prioritizing financial metrics over day-to-day resident needs. In another retrospective comment, a family member suggests that while local staff may be capable and caring, the overarching corporate structure sometimes hinders timely communication and effective problem resolution.

There are also deeply troubling reports of neglect and inadequate response to emergencies. A recurring theme is residents who are not promptly helped with basic needs - being left in soiled clothing, not being dressed or washed when help was requested, and a general sense that urgent concerns were not prioritized. One stark recounting describes the experience of an 86-year-old father left without adequate staffing, with a Thanksgiving meal that consisted of two pieces of bread and a small portion of turkey, followed by the author and spouse stepping in to assist a resident who had fallen near an elevator. In another case, a caregiver reportedly told a family to hold a resident down during a forced change, and the nurse on duty allegedly indicated that there was a sanctioned plan to sedate with morphine, which would raise serious safety and ethics concerns. The fear and anger expressed in these reviews underscore the severe consequences of perceived neglect and mismanagement.

The mixed experiences extend to long-term decisions and comparisons with other facilities. Some reviewers describe moving loved ones out of Skylark to other communities after negative experiences, noting significant improvements elsewhere - particularly in areas like food quality, staff responsiveness, and overall atmosphere. A specific comparison cites Veranda Park in Medford as markedly better in terms of food, attention to detail, and insurance claims processing, highlighting that the contrast can be dramatic. Conversely, there are also messages from those who remain and still hope to see Skylark improve: acknowledges of ongoing improvements, calls for continued staff support and training, and expressions of willingness to work with management to address issues for the sake of current residents.

In sum, Skylark emerges as a place that can deliver meaningful, compassionate care when its staff are stable, adequately supported, and able to maintain close, proactive communication with families. Positive testimonials emphasize warmth, attentiveness, strong on-site leadership, engaging activities, and improvements in food quality and daily routines. Yet the mosaic also includes accounts of serious safety lapses, inconsistent staffing, and administrative challenges that undermine trust and raise questions about accountability. For families considering Skylark, the present picture suggests a facility capable of excellent caregiving under the right conditions, but one that warrants thorough, up-to-date visits, direct conversations with prospective caregivers and management, and careful consideration of whether the current environment can consistently meet the resident's safety, dignity, and medical needs.

Features

Housing

  • 32 resident community capacity 32 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.
  • 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.
  • 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

  • Rogue Valley International (14 miles away) Rogue Valley International (14 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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.
  • 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

Skylark Memory Care in Ashland, OR offers exceptional memory care services for seniors in a warm and inviting environment. Our community is designed specifically to meet the unique needs of individuals with memory impairment, providing them with the highest level of care and support.

Our residents enjoy a range of amenities that promote comfort and convenience. Each apartment is fully furnished and equipped with cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, a telephone, and a kitchenette. Our beautiful outdoor space and garden provide opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment of nature. The dining room offers restaurant-style dining where delicious meals are prepared according to special dietary restrictions.

At Skylark Memory Care, we prioritize the well-being of our residents. Our dedicated staff provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also offer medication management to ensure the health and safety of all residents. Our mental wellness program and specialized memory care programming cater to the cognitive needs of individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

Engagement is essential to maintaining a high quality of life, which is why we provide resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities. Whether it's participating in group exercises or enjoying creative pursuits in our small library, there are plenty of opportunities for socialization and stimulation.

Our location in Ashland offers easy access to various amenities in the surrounding area. With 7 cafes, 3 parks, 2 pharmacies, 19 physicians, 12 restaurants, 1 place of worship, and 2 hospitals nearby, our residents have convenient access to all necessary services.

Choose Skylark Memory Care for exceptional memory care services that prioritize comfort, engagement, and specialized support for individuals with memory impairment.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Cropper Medical (0.7 miles)
  • Artisan Eyeworks (1 miles)
  • Hersey Health Care (1.1 miles)
  • Crum, Theodore Asante Family Medicine (1.1 miles)
  • Elizabeth Institute (1.1 miles)
  • Siskiyou Eye Center (1.1 miles)
  • Ashland Center For Womens Health (1.2 miles)

Cafes

  • Pony Espresso (1.1 miles)
  • Rogue Valley Roasting Co. (1.1 miles)
  • Cafe 116 (1.1 miles)
  • Case Coffee Roasters (1.1 miles)
  • Morning Glory (1.6 miles)
  • Case Coffee Roasters (1.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.8 miles)

Parks

  • Garfield Park (1.1 miles)
  • Japanese Garden, Lithia Park (1.6 miles)
  • Hunter Park (1.7 miles)
  • Blue Heron Park (7.1 miles)
  • Colver Park Phoenix Oregon (7.1 miles)

Restaurants

  • Hiro Ramen (1.1 miles)
  • Brothers' Restaurant (1.2 miles)
  • Mix Sweet Shop (1.2 miles)
  • The Breadboard Restaurant (1.2 miles)
  • Pie + Vine (1.2 miles)
  • Belle Fiore Estate (1.2 miles)
  • Subway (1.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Asante Ashland Community Hospital (1.3 miles)
  • Ashland Community Healthcare Services (1.3 miles)
  • Hearthstone Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (9.9 miles)
  • Asante Health System (10.1 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (2.2 miles)
  • Grateful Meds (4.3 miles)
  • Asante Medford Pharmacy (9.8 miles)
  • Black Oak Pharmacy (10 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Catholic Church-Our Lady of the Mountain (2.4 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Skylark Memory Care?
Does Skylark Memory Care provide care for residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease?

Nearby Communities

Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

Related Resources

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    Assisted living provides moderate support for seniors seeking independence, while memory care offers specialized support for individuals with dementia or cognitive impairments through structured routines and trained staff. Key differences include care approaches, environment security measures, staff training levels, activity types, and cost considerations.

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  • how to prevent memory loss in old ageSafeguarding Your Memory Through the Golden Years: Eight Ways to Preserve Cognitive Health

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