Firwood Gardens

Pros

• The staff at Firwood Gardens are known for their friendliness and dedication to making residents feel special and welcome.
• Residents enjoy a clean and fresh environment, with spacious rooms that are respectful of their needs.
• The facility offers a variety of planned activities, creating an engaging community atmosphere for residents.
• Many families express gratitude for the excellent care provided by the staff, especially highlighting specific caregivers like Nicole and Johnathan.
• Visitors appreciate the positive experience during tours, noting the bright and welcoming spaces throughout the facility.
• Firwood Gardens is recognized for its good food and overall positive living conditions for elderly residents.
• Families report that communication within the community is effective, allowing them to feel involved in their loved ones' care.
• Residents receive personalized attention from staff who remember their names and preferences, fostering a sense of belonging in the community.

Cons

• The facility has a history of residents going missing, raising serious concerns about safety, especially for individuals with dementia.
• During a visit, the room of a resident smelled strongly of urine and had significant stains on the mattress and blankets.
• An in-person tour appeared unwelcoming, with staff seemingly disinterested in providing information or assistance.
• There have been complaints about miscommunications and staff taking shortcuts instead of offering proper care to residents.
• A family member expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of support for their loved one’s desire to walk independently to meals, indicating a disregard for personal autonomy.

Review

The care and living conditions in assisted living facilities can vary greatly, as evidenced by recent experiences shared by families navigating the complexities of finding appropriate homes for their aging loved ones. One concerning account highlighted the alarming situation in a facility where a resident with dementia managed to escape unsupervised. This incident underscored not only the vulnerabilities associated with memory care but also raised significant questions about the safety protocols within such establishments. The family reported that they were notified hours after their father-in-law went missing, and upon his return later that evening, he bore injuries that prompted great distress. The facility's apparent lack of concern was compounded by the revelation that this was not an isolated event, raising serious red flags regarding resident supervision.

During a visit to check on their loved one, the family encountered distressing conditions in his personal space. A strong smell of urine permeated his room, and further inspection revealed substantial staining on both his mattress and bedding. Such findings starkly illustrate a troubling neglect of hygiene and care which is unacceptable in any residential setting for the elderly. The family's disappointment extended to their initial tour experience; they felt dismissed during the walkthrough, leading them to instinctively reject this facility as an option for their father-in-law’s ongoing care.

In contrast, Firwood Gardens emerged as a beacon of hope amid these troubling experiences. Families who toured Firwood Gardens reported a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complemented by friendly staff who seemed genuinely invested in caring for residents. Multiple reviews praised the cleanliness of the environment and highlighted numerous activities designed to engage residents. For those seeking assisted living options for loved ones requiring additional support, Firwood Gardens appeared well-equipped but had limitations for specific needs like two-person assists.

Residents at Firwood Gardens reported feeling at home; phrases like “homey spot” were common among families describing their loved ones’ experiences there. Staff members were consistently characterized as dedicated and compassionate, playing crucial roles in cultivating a supportive community around each resident. Notable caregivers such as Nicole and Johnathan received accolades from family members appreciative of how well they connected with residents under their supervision.

Several reviews focused on how open communication between staff and families contributed positively to the overall experience at Firwood Gardens. Families noted that staff knew residents by name and made meaningful efforts to include them in various activities throughout the day—a crucial element considering many elderly individuals thrive on connection and engagement with others during what can often feel like isolating times in life.

However, it is essential to recognize that not all facilities operate at this high standard or provide equal levels of attention when it comes to resident care and happiness. While some family members expressed appreciation regarding good management practices at Firwood Gardens, there were reports elsewhere of miscommunications that impacted personalized care approaches—particularly concerning residents’ independence within daily routines like dining arrangements.

As families weigh options for eldercare facilities across different neighborhoods—each with unique challenges—it becomes increasingly vital to share both positive experiences as well as warnings against subpar standards found elsewhere. It is clear from these accounts that choosing an appropriate setting requires careful consideration encompassing cleanliness, resident engagement opportunities, staff dedication levels—and ultimately how well each establishment supports its most vulnerable residents: our beloved elders.

This part of Portland, Oregon offers a convenient location with several amenities that may appeal to seniors looking for a comfortable and accessible living environment. There are multiple pharmacies within a short distance, ensuring easy access to medication and healthcare supplies. Additionally, there are various medical facilities nearby, including eye clinics and family health centers, providing comprehensive healthcare services. The area also boasts a variety of cafes and restaurants for dining options, as well as parks for leisurely strolls or outdoor activities. With a major hospital in close proximity and reliable public transportation options available, this neighborhood provides convenience and comfort for senior residents.

Pharmacies

• Walgreens (0.2 miles)
• Herbalist Farmer (0.4 miles)
• Rite Aid (1.8 miles)
• Walgreens (2 miles)
• Rite Aid (2.6 miles)
• Fred Meyer Pharmacy (2.8 miles)
• Rite Aid (3 miles)

Physicians

• Eye Health Northwest (0.9 miles)
• The Oregon Clinic (1.2 miles)
• Adventist Medical Pavilion (1.4 miles)
• Rockwood Medical Offices (3.8 miles)
• ZoomCare (4.1 miles)
• Richmond Family Health Center (4.4 miles)
• Family Medical Group, PC (4.6 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (1.1 miles)
• Panera Bread (2.9 miles)
• Dutch Bros. Coffee (4 miles)
• Common Grounds Coffee House (4 miles)
• Keeper Coffee Co. (4.8 miles)
• Dutch Bros Coffee (5.2 miles)
• Peet's Coffee and Tea (5.5 miles)

Hospitals

• Adventist Medical Center (1.5 miles)

Restaurants

• Taqueria Queretaro (1.9 miles)
• Roscoe's (2.1 miles)
• Bipartisan Cafe (2.2 miles)
• Jim Dandy Drive-In (2.4 miles)
• Escape Bar and Grill (2.4 miles)
• Park City Pub (2.6 miles)
• Element Lounge (3.2 miles)

Parks

• Mt. Tabor Park - Off Leash Area (2.9 miles)
• Mt. Tabor Park (3.2 miles)
• Lents Park (3.2 miles)
• Normandale Park (3.3 miles)
• Laurelhurst Park (4.2 miles)
• Oregon Park (4.7 miles)
• Heritage Park (5.3 miles)

Theaters

• Century 16 Eastport Plaza (3 miles)
• Hollywood Theatre (4 miles)

Places of Worship

• St Rose Catholic Church (3.5 miles)
• St Henry Catholic Church (5.4 miles)
• East Hill Kid City (5.5 miles)

Transportation

• TriMet Hollywood/NE 42nd Ave Transit Center (4 miles)
• Portland Airport Rental Car Center (4.9 miles)
• Concourse E (4.9 miles)
• Portland International Airport (PDX) (5 miles)
• Alaska Airlines Lounge - PDX (5 miles)
• Concourse C (5 miles)
• TSA Checkpoint A/B/C - Portland International Airport (5 miles)