Willamette View Memory Care Community

13145 South East River Road, Portland, OR 97222

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

4.7 from 100 reviews
5 stars
80
4 stars
13
3 stars
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1 stars
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Assisted Living Memory Care

Overall Review of Willamette View Memory Care Community

Pros

  • pro Willamette View is described as one of the most vibrant and unique retirement communities, created by its executive team led by Craig Van Valkenburg.
  • pro It offers beautiful scenic river views and a full range of onsite services, lifestyle programs, residential options, and healthcare on a single campus.
  • pro The community provides over 100 floor plans, continuing care programs, and assisted living options.
  • pro Families express lasting gratitude for choosing Willamette View, noting active, engaged, and meaningful lives for their loved ones.
  • pro The care staff are amazing, attentive, caring, and consistently treat residents with respect and warmth.
  • pro The community is inviting and friendly, with many activities and surprisingly delicious food.
  • pro The in-house restaurants are fabulous, with tasty menus that satisfy residents and guests.
  • pro Willamette View is described as a paradise to retirees, with a beautiful 27-acre campus and top-notch facilities.
  • pro Residents and staff are repeatedly described as top-notch, professional, and friendly.
  • pro The campus offers a wide range of activities - from painting and gym to woodworking and beauty services - with quick emergency response through wristband bracelets.
  • pro Dining experiences are repeatedly praised as delicious and generously portioned.
  • pro The facility is expanding and investing in its amenities, signaling continued growth and improvement.

Cons

  • pro The food sucks.
  • pro The front desk check-in was not friendly at all.
  • pro The cost to live there is expensive and not inexpensive.
  • pro One reviewer criticized the facility's big-business feel and warned of an "army of elderly" being pumped into the community.

Review

Willamette View stands out as a retirement community that many families come to cherish deeply, in large part because of the leadership at the top and the vibrant culture that forms from it. Special recognition is often given to Craig Van Valkenburg, the campus's CEO, and to the entire executive team, who are described as having built one of the most dynamic and unique communities of its kind. The leadership is paired with a setting that lends itself to a full spectrum of living - beautiful, scenic river views, and a single campus that houses a complete range of onsite services, lifestyle programs, residential options, and multiple levels of healthcare. It's a place designed to be convenient yet expansive, where residents can access what they need without leaving the grounds.

The campus itself is a selling point, with more than one hundred different floor plans to suit a wide array of preferences and needs. Continuing care programs and assisted living options are integrated into the community, reinforcing the sense that the Willamette View experience can evolve with residents over time. The philosophy behind the place is summed up by those who live there or send loved ones: there is something for everyone, regardless of life stage or circumstance. The narrative of many families begins with a move into independent living - often into a manor - where residents lead active, engaged, meaningful lives: taking classes, serving on committees, making new friends, and feeling genuinely part of the WV community. When needs increase and memory care or additional support is required, the transition is handled with care, and the experience for the resident and their families remains marked by gratitude and admiration for the staff who stay with them through every stage.

Across the board, the staff and the community's culture emerge as a recurring strength. Phrases like "The best!" and "Gracious staff" pop up alongside more expansive testimonies: brothers and relatives have lived there since before the pandemic and speak of care that is wonderful, attentive, and consistently respectful - treating residents with dignity and as adults. People describe the campus as a peaceful, nice place, with staff described as professional, inviting, and superb. The setting itself is repeatedly praised for its beauty, its breadth of activities, and, perhaps surprisingly to some, the quality of food in the in-house dining options. Guests and residents alike remark that the food can be surprisingly delicious and well-presented, with restaurants and cafes on-site contributing to a sense of normalcy and pleasure in daily life.

The personal stories about living at Willamette View reinforce the sense that this is more than a place to reside; it is a true community. One person shares that their dad lives there and that it is "the best of the best," with fabulous restaurants and exceptionally friendly, helpful staff. The breadth of things to do is remarkable - painting, gym, swimming, woodworking, beauty salons, banking, doctors' offices, and more - and there is a sense that residents can pursue almost anything they enjoy. An incredible level of activity exists; back in 2007, it's noted, there were over 275 different activities available. And in a practical sense of care, residents' bracelets for emergency services are a tangible reminder that safety is a priority and that responders will arrive promptly. Families express deep peace knowing their loved ones are well cared for, and they repeatedly praise the property's beauty.

The community's appeal isn't limited to residents; it resonates with employees and prospective residents as well. For those who work there, Willamette View is described as a nice place to work, a reflection of the supportive environment and consistent, friendly interactions with residents. Those who choose to live at Willamette View speak of it as one of the best decisions of their lives - an affirmation of its beauty, its generous activity calendar, and the warmth of the people who make up the community. It's not just a place to be cared for; it's a place to belong, and many comment on the upscale but approachable atmosphere, the sense of safety, and the overall feeling of peace that comes with living among thoughtful staff and like-minded neighbors.

Not every voice is blanketly positive, and the reviews reflect a spectrum of experiences, including cost considerations. Willamette View is frequently described as a high-end facility with a buy-in that may feel steep to some, even as many others acknowledge that the amenities, services, and quality of life can justify the expense. As one reviewer notes, it is "a non-profit CRCC with excellent food, unique amenities, and a very upbeat and friendly social atmosphere," while another observer admits that it is not inexpensive but asserts that the value is worth it. There are occasional candid critiques as well, such as the comment that "Food sucks!" and concerns about a perceived big-business feel in the neighborhood, along with questions about long-term growth plans elsewhere. Still, even these divergent views sit within a broader appreciation for the community's strengths, including its restaurants, activities, and the overall sense of being in a cruise-ship-on-land kind of experience.

In sum, Willamette View presents itself as a thriving, multi-faceted community anchored by strong leadership, a broad array of residential options, and a campus designed to support fullness of life across varying needs. It is celebrated for its beauty, its river views, its extensive activity catalog, its on-site dining choices, and its dedicated staff who staff the spaces with care and friendliness. Families celebrate the gratitude of a mother who found meaning and companionship in independent living before a later transition to assisted living, and they honor the staff who remained attentive, encouraging, and loving to the very end. For many, it remains the Paradise to retirees - a place where residents, families, and staff come together to create a living fabric that feels at once elegant and intimate, welcoming and uplifting, spacious and homely all at once.

Features

Housing

  • 21 resident community capacity 21 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.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • 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

  • Portland International (11 miles away) Portland International (11 miles away)
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.

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

The Willamette View Memory Care Community in Portland, OR is a caring and comfortable assisted living community that specializes in providing personalized memory care for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. Our dedicated staff provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and transfers.

Residents at Willamette View can enjoy a range of amenities to enhance their quality of life. Each spacious room is fully furnished and includes a private bathroom for convenience and privacy. Cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access, and telephone services are available to keep residents connected with the world.

Our community features beautiful outdoor spaces with gardens for residents to relax and enjoy nature. The dining room offers restaurant-style dining where residents can have nutritious meals prepared by our skilled culinary team. We also accommodate special dietary restrictions and provide diabetes diet management.

At Willamette View, we understand the importance of mental wellness for our residents. Our specialized memory care programming focuses on stimulating cognitive function and engaging residents in meaningful activities. We also offer a small library with books for leisure reading.

In addition to the comprehensive care services offered within the community, we provide transportation arrangements for medical appointments or outings. We have nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, and hospitals for easy access to essential amenities.

Residents can also look forward to resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities that promote socialization and enhance overall well-being. Whether it's participating in group exercises or enjoying crafts sessions together, there are plenty of opportunities for engagement.

If you or your loved one requires specialized memory care in a warm and welcoming environment, Willamette View Memory Care Community is here to provide compassionate support and exceptional care.

Nearby Places of Interest

Parks

  • Rivervilla Park (0.5 miles)
  • George Rogers Park (0.9 miles)
  • Tryon Creek State Park (1.8 miles)
  • Stringfield Family Park (2.2 miles)
  • Sellwood Riverfront Park (2.7 miles)
  • Sellwood Park (2.8 miles)
  • Mary S Young State Park Dog Run (3.2 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (1 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.4 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.4 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.5 miles)
  • Fred Meyer Pharmacy (3.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.7 miles)
  • Safeway Pharmacy (3.9 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (1.2 miles)
  • Portland Cà Phê (4.4 miles)
  • Dutch Bros Coffee (4.4 miles)
  • Keeper Coffee Co. (4.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (4.7 miles)
  • Dutch Bros Coffee (5.1 miles)
  • Well & Good Coffee House (5.2 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (1.4 miles)
  • Hanko's Sports Bar & Grill (2.8 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (3.7 miles)
  • The Old Spaghetti Factory (3.7 miles)
  • Wendy's (3.9 miles)
  • Taco Bell (4 miles)
  • High Rocks Steak and Chops (4.4 miles)

Hospitals

  • Providence Milwaukie Hospital (1.7 miles)
  • Kaiser Sunnyside Medical Center (4.1 miles)
  • Portland VA Medical Center (5.1 miles)
  • Doernbecher Children's Hospital (5.3 miles)
  • West Linn Clinic - US Department of Veterans Affairs (5.3 miles)
  • Shriners Hospitals For Children (5.6 miles)
  • Hand Reconstructive Surgery NW (5.6 miles)

Physicians

  • Sellwood Medical Clinic (2.4 miles)
  • Pacific Digestive Associates (3.9 miles)
  • Kaiser Sunnybrook - Institut (4 miles)
  • Kaiser Permanente Mount Talbert - Emily West MD (4.1 miles)
  • Metropolitan Pediatrics (4.2 miles)
  • Avada Hearing Care Center (4.7 miles)
  • Pediatric Associates Of The NW (5.1 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St John Fisher Church (5 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Bridgeport Village ScreenX & IMAX (5.6 miles)
  • Century 16 Eastport Plaza (5.7 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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