Elite Care Rainier - Helens

4457 South East Oatfield Hill Road, Milwaukie, OR 97267

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

3.7 from 38 reviews
5 stars
25
4 stars
0
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 stars
12

Assisted Living

Overall Review of Elite Care Rainier - Helens

Pros

  • pro The review notes a miraculous recovery attributed to the high level of care she received.
  • pro Fanno Creek Elite is described as the best place for a dad, with lots of friends and activities.
  • pro The grandma staying there is cared for by staff who are kind and gracious.
  • pro Elite Care is considered awesome, with a staff that is kind, respectful, and communicates well with the family.
  • pro All staff at the location are professional and friendly and show genuine concern for providing excellent care.
  • pro The facility offers a truly dignified memory-care environment and allows couples with different needs to live together.
  • pro The staff have taken great care of a cousin, and the reviewer would recommend the facility.
  • pro The campus is absolutely beautiful, with professional and loving care staff and a happy resident population.
  • pro Families receive daily status reports, which provide comforting reassurance.
  • pro Residents eat together in a communal setting and enjoy nice gardening spaces.
  • pro A reviewer notes that a mom has a nice room close to the kitchen with a cook, making it feel like home.

Cons

  • pro The bed was wet from the day before and the resident's clothing remained on the floor.
  • pro No medications were given to residents for two days or more.
  • pro Pain management medications and meals were not provided for extended periods.
  • pro Soiled linens were left lying on the floor.
  • pro Residents were not bathed, and family members had to bathe them themselves.
  • pro Residents sat for long periods in soiled undergarments.
  • pro Urine ran down the resident's leg onto the floor on most days.
  • pro The quality of care was slipping and management seemed burned out.
  • pro The facility was understaffed with high turnover and communication was terrible.
  • pro Unprofessional staff members, including reports of racial and abusive conduct.
  • pro Residents did not receive all the care they were paying for; management was accused of prioritizing profit over care.
  • pro There were too few staff - only one caregiver for 12 residents.

Review

What began as a deeply grateful note for a miracle recovery soon shifted into a raw, unsparing account of what some families are experiencing behind the doors of various memory care and senior living communities. The writer begins by saluting the remarkable improvement in a dear friend and the extraordinary care they felt was provided - so much so that the writer literally takes their hat off in appreciation. Yet intertwined with that gratitude is a troubling reality: they recently witnessed or heard about troubling conditions at another facility, including a bed that was still damp from the day before and clothing left unaddressed. The author questions whether weekends are adequately staffed and notes that medications were not given to residents for two days or more, prompting fear about overall care quality and prompting plans to remove a family member and consult others. The message is clear: while there are shining examples of care, there are equally alarming concerns that need attention.

Several reviews describe a family member who has been in care for nearly a year, with repeated complaints about pain medications and meals, as well as housekeeping lapses. Specifically, the reviewer notes that pain management medications were not consistently provided, meals were inconsistently available, and soiled linens were left on the floor. They describe times when a resident did not bathe and spent long stretches in soiled undergarments, with urine running down her leg onto the floor most days. Taken together, these details create a discouraging picture and the reviewer urges others not to place their loved ones in that facility, emphasizing the emotional toll of watching a family member suffer when care feels unreliable or insufficient.

A recurring theme across the stream of comments is the sense that the overall quality of care is slipping and that staff burnout is becoming visible in practice. Several reviewers point to understaffing, high turnover, and communication breakdowns as chronic problems, especially in a challenging post-pandemic context. One user even describes a general impression that management is overwhelmed, a sentiment that translates into slower responses, less consistent care, and frustration for families who are trying to advocate for their loved ones. The frustration is compounded when familiar routines - like bathing, medication administration, and timely meals - appear to be irregular, contributing to a perception that residents are not receiving the level of attention they deserve.

Not all comments are negative, though. A number of reviews highlight facilities that are praised for warmth, engagement, and genuine caregiving. Fanno Creek Elite is remembered by some as "the best place" for their dad, with ample social opportunities, friends, and activities. Several family members praise the Grandmothers and Grandfathers' care in terms of friendliness and respect, and one reviewer insists that Elite Care is "awesome," with top-notch communication and a sense of professional, loving care. The sentiment here is that certain locations within the same broader network deliver rich social environments, regular family engagement, and a culture of kindness that makes a real difference in residents' quality of life.

The Oatfield family of communities appears frequently in the positive column, with multiple reviewers describing transformative experiences after a loved one moved in. One reviewer notes an immediate shift in their mother's attitude after entering Oatfield Estates, where staff actively engaged with her, introduced her to other residents, and integrated her into activities like bingo, religious services, and daily walks. The grounds are praised for beauty and accessibility, with mentions of fountains, chickens, and a garden that fosters a sense of community. The staff are described as professional, friendly, and genuinely concerned about care needs, with ongoing communication about care and billing. The writer even notes a high level of satisfaction with the on-site nurse and the overall sense that the home environment felt comfortable and supportive. Specific touches - such as a daily report delivered to a family member via phone and a cook who creates home-style meals - are highlighted as meaningful, as is a perception of safety and freedom of movement within a rotatable, well-designed memory care setting.

Yet, alongside these positive stories, another highly critical account targets the same or nearby properties under different circumstances. A long-form critique accuses the management team (specifically naming Voorhies and Associates) of transforming the experience into something far from what families were led to expect. The reviewer claims the facility shifted toward prioritizing revenue over care, citing budget cuts that affected food quality, reduced activities, and a general sense that residents were left idle for long stretches. The critique goes further, alleging early wake-up calls (as early as 5 a.m.) to accommodate staffing shortfalls, widespread overwork among caregivers, and a culture of firing staff who raise legitimate concerns. The reviewer asserts that residents' care does not meet the costs being charged, describes a perceived lack of basic respect (not learning residents' names, for example), and accuses the owners of pocketing money rather than reinvesting in the facilities. They also reference ongoing maintenance issues, including malfunctioning air conditioning, and supply a harsh verdict: do not take your family here.

Despite the sharp disagreements across reviews, the overarching takeaway is that these care environments are highly variable, even within the same brands or management groups. Some families report consistently good care, with responsive staff, meaningful programs, clean environments, and transparent communication. Others recount situations that feel dangerous or neglectful: missed medications, inadequate bathing and hygiene, soiled linens, and a pervasive sense that staff are stretched too thin to provide the necessary attention. The contrast underscores the importance for families to conduct thorough, proactive due diligence when evaluating memory care options. It also highlights the value of observable care routines, direct conversations with staff and management, and an insistence on transparency around medications, meals, housekeeping, and activity schedules.

In sum, the collection of experiences paints a complex picture of modern memory care and senior living. There are places described as havens of dignity, activity, and compassionate care - where residents walk safely through well-kept grounds, participate in group meals and events, and receive consistent attention from engaged teams. There are others where families feel their loved ones are not receiving the level of care promised or paid for, with concerns that staffing, leadership, and budget pressures are undermining daily care. For families evaluating options, these accounts emphasize the necessity of firsthand visits, conversations with both care staff and leadership, and a clear understanding of how medications, meals, hygiene, and daily activities are managed. The ultimate message is hopeful but cautious: seek out communities with demonstrated consistency in care, robust staffing, and open lines of communication, and be prepared to advocate actively for your loved one.

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.

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

  • Portland International (12 miles away) Portland 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.
  • 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

Elite Care Rainier - Helens in Milwaukie, OR is an assisted living community that provides exceptional care and support for seniors. Our community offers a wide range of amenities to ensure that residents can live comfortably and enjoy their time with us.

Each apartment at Elite Care Rainier - Helens is fully furnished and includes cable or satellite TV, a telephone, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access. Residents can feel at home while enjoying the convenience of these modern amenities.

Our community also features a dining room where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by our skilled chefs. Special dietary restrictions are taken into consideration to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of each resident.

At Elite Care Rainier - Helens, we understand the importance of maintaining an active and engaging lifestyle. That's why we offer scheduled daily activities to keep our residents entertained and socially connected. Additionally, there are three cafes, nine parks, eleven pharmacies, twelve physicians' offices, eight restaurants, and three hospitals nearby for convenient access to various services.

Our dedicated staff provides 24-hour supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. We offer assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management services are also available to help residents stay on track with their prescribed medications.

We coordinate with health care providers and assist in arranging transportation for medical appointments as needed. Our mental wellness program focuses on promoting emotional well-being among residents.

Whether it's enjoying a peaceful evening in the garden or participating in our daily activities, residents at Elite Care Rainier - Helens can find joy and contentment in their daily lives. We strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where seniors can thrive in their golden years.

Nearby Places of Interest

Parks

  • Stringfield Family Park (1.2 miles)
  • Rivervilla Park (1.9 miles)
  • George Rogers Park (2.2 miles)
  • Mary S Young State Park Dog Run (2.5 miles)
  • Dahl Beach (2.9 miles)
  • Tryon Creek State Park (3.4 miles)
  • Southern Lites Park (3.9 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (2 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.1 miles)
  • Rite Aid (2.3 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.9 miles)
  • Kaiser Sunnybrook Pharmacy (3 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.4 miles)
  • Rite Aid (3.4 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (2 miles)
  • The Old Spaghetti Factory (2.6 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (2.6 miles)
  • Taco Bell (2.7 miles)
  • High Rocks Steak and Chops (2.9 miles)
  • Oregon City Brewing Company (3.8 miles)
  • Mike's Drive In (4.2 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (2.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.4 miles)
  • Dutch Bros Coffee (3.9 miles)
  • Keeper Coffee Co. (5.2 miles)
  • Portland Cà Phê (5.3 miles)
  • Dutch Bros Coffee (5.3 miles)
  • Starbucks (6 miles)

Physicians

  • Pacific Digestive Associates (2.4 miles)
  • Kaiser Sunnybrook - Institut (2.9 miles)
  • Kaiser Permanente Mount Talbert - Emily West MD (3 miles)
  • Avada Hearing Care Center (3.4 miles)
  • Metropolitan Pediatrics (3.6 miles)
  • Sellwood Medical Clinic (3.7 miles)
  • Oregon Neurology PC (4.2 miles)

Hospitals

  • Providence Milwaukie Hospital (2.4 miles)
  • Kaiser Sunnyside Medical Center (3 miles)
  • West Linn Clinic - US Department of Veterans Affairs (4.8 miles)
  • Hand Reconstructive Surgery NW (5.1 miles)
  • Portland VA Medical Center (6.5 miles)
  • Legacy Meridian Park Hospital (6.5 miles)
  • Doernbecher Children's Hospital (6.6 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Hilltop Cinema (5.7 miles)
  • Century 16 Eastport Plaza (5.8 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Elite Care Rainier - Helens?

Nearby Communities

Related Resources

  • assisted living vs nursing homeChoosing the Right Senior Care: A Detailed Exploration of Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

    Choosing between assisted living and nursing homes involves evaluating emotional and financial factors, with assisted living offering independence and support for daily activities at a lower cost, while nursing homes provide intensive medical care for individuals with significant health needs. The decision is influenced by personal preferences, health status, cognitive function, and varying Medicaid coverage across states.

  • assisted living costUnderstanding the True Cost of Assisted Living in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

    Assisted living in 2025 offers a crucial balance of independence and support for seniors, with costs varying from $2,500 to over $7,000 per month based on factors such as location and care level. Understanding pricing complexities, including regional differences and potential hidden fees, is essential for families to plan financially while ensuring quality care for their loved ones.

  • does medicaid pay for assisted livingUnderstanding Medicaid Coverage for Assisted Living: A Comprehensive Guide

    The guide outlines the complexities of Medicaid coverage for assisted living, highlighting significant state-to-state variations, limited coverage often restricted to personal care services, and the existence of specialized waivers for certain needs like memory care. It advises families to consult local Medicaid offices for options while emphasizing the importance of understanding state-specific regulations and facility policies.