Hollidaysburg Veterans Home

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  • Living Room

    Two seniors sitting in a living room with a piano and watching television.

  • Building

    A neatly arranged row of flags flutters on poles in front of a brick building, with manicured lawns and trees adding to the scenic view.

  • Bedroom

    A hospital room with two beds, each equipped with a television and bedside furniture.

  • Trees

    A row of flags in front of a brick building with surrounding greenery.

  • Dining

    A caregiver serves a meal to residents in a nursing home dining area.

  • Bathroom

    A hospital room with two beds, televisions, and a privacy curtain.

  • Healthcare

    Hospital staff interacting at the reception desk.

Hollidaysburg Veterans Home

500 Municipal Drive P.O. Box 319, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648

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

3.2 from 13 reviews
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Assisted Living Respite Care

Overall Review of Hollidaysburg Veterans Home

Pros

  • pro The staff are absolutely amazing, greeting visitors with a smile.
  • pro The office staff bend over backwards to help families and make things easier.
  • pro Caregivers sit with residents, read the Bible, laugh at jokes, dance in wheelchairs, and give hugs, treating residents like family.
  • pro The facility honors milestones, such as a 99th birthday, with a sash, signs, and balloons.
  • pro Doctors, nurses, social workers, and other staff work together like a close-knit team.
  • pro The home welcomes and treats veterans with respect, creating a warm sense of community.

Cons

  • pro The reviewers describe poor health care and strict rules, claiming residents are treated like seven-year-olds with brain damage.
  • pro They say there is no camaraderie, friendship, or meaningful activities for residents.
  • pro They allege handicapped residents must fight for help, with needed items taking weeks or months to obtain.
  • pro They accuse the commandant and second-in-command of prioritizing their own jobs over residents' well-being and of protecting themselves during the pandemic.
  • pro They claim the facility relies on propaganda and is unanswerable to residents.
  • pro They describe the Blair County Ombudsman as ineffective.
  • pro They report harassment by the administration, including confiscation of personal belongings and delays in returning property.
  • pro They state the home takes a large portion of veterans' income (80%) and charges at least $150 per month, making care unaffordable for some.
  • pro They note a decline in living conditions and care under new administration, with no permanent doctor and policies that threaten eviction.
  • pro They claim residents are told to stay in their rooms and watch old TV shows, implying a dreary, restricting environment.

Review

Hollidaysburg Veterans Home is a place that stirs strong, mixed feelings. For some families, it has become a beacon of comfort and care in a difficult chapter. One writer describes the experience as a long, emotional journey of trying to place a beloved father in a setting where he can receive proper attention. The author notes that the decision-making process itself was painful, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, but insists the people at the facility are "absolutely amazing." Guards greet visitors with smiles, the office staff go "bent over backwards" to help, and the direct care staff truly lean into service - sitting with Dad, reading the Bible (something he loves), laughing at his jokes even when he loses the punchline, dancing with him in his wheelchair, and offering hugs as if he were their own grandfather. The sentiment is deeply sincere: the writer is proud that their dad is a part of Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, and they treasure the small, human moments that give dignity and warmth even in tough times. The family even recounts a rare, special moment - a 99th birthday celebration that included signs, balloons, a sash proclaiming "I'm 99 years young today," and a sense that the staff and community were celebrating right alongside the family.

Yet beneath that glow of compassionate care, another voice within the same conversation speaks to a very different reality. This reviewer paints a stark contrast: "Poor health care and strict rules," with residents described as being treated "like a 7 year old with brain damage." The critique emphasizes a lack of camaraderie, friendship, and meaningful, engaging activities. The sense conveyed is that, for some residents, when handicaps are present, the system requires a constant fight for basic things that might improve daily life, with delays that stretch for weeks or months. The critique widens to governance concerns, naming the commandant and the second in command as primarily motivated by protecting their own jobs, especially during the pandemic when confinement for residents was used as a policy. The reviewer accuses the facility of propagandistic messaging, suggesting that truth-telling is restrained and that accountability is limited because "there's no one to answer to," with the Ombudsman in particular being described as "worth nothing." The overall tone here is one of disillusionment with how the care and the environment were managed, especially in the context of the pandemic and its restrictions.

Another focal point is a troubling incident of property and perceived harassment. A resident or family member describes a highly distressing episode in January, where most belongings were taken and locked away in a shed for nearly a month, with no clear word about when they'd be returned. In the ensuing tension, the resident decided to move out in February after facing pressure from multiple staff members who were "in my room telling me to leave" as they conducted inspections. The social worker reportedly pressed for a time-and-leave decision, asking the resident four times when they would depart, culminating in a farewell that left the person with only the clothes on their back and about $20. This account signals not only the loss of personal property but a crisis of trust and security in a place meant to feel like a home and a refuge.

Financial matters are another major theme woven through the reviews. The writer claims that all U.S. veterans living there are allowed no less than $150 a month, but that the home extracts a substantial share of residents' income, sometimes up to 80% of all earnings including VA disability, Social Security benefits, and any retirement or pension income. The implication is that this financial dynamic can significantly limit a resident's ability to meet personal needs or enjoy a dignified quality of life. For families weighing this option, the message is clear: some believe there are other nursing homes that do not levy such heavy charges, and potential residents should consider those alternatives to avoid a burdensome financial strain.

There is also a narrative of change over time. A long-term resident, who arrived in February 2003, remembers a different era: a place that welcomed veterans and treated them with respect. Doctors, nurses, social workers, and other staff are described as working together "like a family," with a sense of community and neighborliness that felt wholesome and well-mannered. That sense of warmth contrasts sharply with another part of the story, where current administration is described as having created a "great decline" in the quality of life and care. Medical care is criticized as unsatisfactory, with a lack of a permanent doctor and policies that seem to erode the positive conditions that once existed. The fear of eviction for homeless veterans is cited as part of a broader climate of pressure and insecurity under the new administration. The writer holds onto a glimmer of hope, suggesting that there is always hope the home can return to the well-functioning, humane place it once was, while acknowledging the need for ongoing efforts to lift morale and attitudes for brighter days.

A concluding note ties the thread of these experiences to a broader identity shift for the facility. It is now referred to by a different name - the same place once known as Hollidaysburg State Hospital is now identified as Hollidaysburg Veterans Home. This change in designation feels emblematic to some reviewers: a symbol of progress and purpose, but also a reminder of the complex history and evolving reality of the institution. The final sense from these voices is a desire for balance - between the compassion and dedication evident in staff who go above and beyond for residents, and the reforms needed to ensure consistent medical care, transparent governance, fair financial practices, and a culture where all veterans feel genuinely respected, secure, and included. The story of Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, as told through these perspectives, is a testament to both the enduring dignity of those who serve and the continuing work required to honor that service through every facet of care.

Features

Housing

  • 167 resident community capacity 167 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.
  • Respite Care Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.

Amenities

  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • 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.
  • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
  • 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.
  • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
  • 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.
  • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • 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.
  • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
  • 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

  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • 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.
  • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.
  • 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, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.

Care Services

  • 12-16 hour nursing 12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • 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 Hollidaysburg Veterans Home in Hollidaysburg, PA is an assisted living community that offers respite care for veterans. This community provides a variety of amenities to enhance the residents' comfort and convenience. The residents can enjoy visiting the beauty salon for grooming needs and have access to cable or satellite TV in their fully furnished accommodations. Community operated transportation is available for residents to go on outings or run errands.

For those who enjoy technology, there is a computer center with Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available. Meals are provided in a dining room where residents can enjoy restaurant-style dining. Housekeeping services are also provided to ensure a clean and tidy living environment.

Residents can stay active by utilizing the fitness room and participating in the scheduled daily activities and fitness programs. For relaxation, there is an outdoor space and garden where residents can spend time outdoors. The gaming room and small library provide entertainment options for leisure activities.

The Hollidaysburg Veterans Home also offers various care services to meet the individual needs of each resident. There is a 24-hour call system and supervision for added security, as well as assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is available, along with diabetes diet support and special dietary restrictions.

Transportation arrangement services are provided for non-medical purposes as well as doctors' appointments. A mental wellness program helps support the emotional well-being of residents.

In terms of nearby amenities, there are three cafes, five parks, eleven pharmacies, twenty-five physicians, forty-eight restaurants, one transportation service, six places of worship, and one theater located conveniently close to the community.

Overall, the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home provides a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors in need of respite care. With its range of amenities and care services combined with its convenient location near various amenities, it offers a comprehensive package for veterans seeking assisted living options in Hollidaysburg, PA.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • The Meadows Original Frozen Custard (0.5 miles)
  • McDonald's (0.6 miles)
  • Wendy's (0.7 miles)
  • Primanti Bros. Restaurant and Bar Altoona (0.8 miles)
  • Domino's Pizza (0.9 miles)
  • Marzoni's Brick Oven & Brewing (0.9 miles)
  • Brooklyn Deli (1 miles)

Physicians

  • Southern Cove Medical Associates (0.5 miles)
  • Altoona Arthritis & Osteoporosis Center (0.6 miles)
  • Altoona Center For Clinical Research (0.6 miles)
  • Hollidaysburg Pediatric Association (0.6 miles)
  • Remcare Anesthesia Solutions (0.9 miles)
  • Dr Centar and Imler (1 miles)
  • Laurel Eye Clinic (1.1 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Value Specialty Pharmacy (0.5 miles)
  • Martin's Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
  • Value Drug Company (1.5 miles)
  • Syncor International Corporation (1.7 miles)
  • Thompson Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
  • Duncansville Pharmacy (1.8 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.9 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC CLASSIC Altoona 12 (0.9 miles)

Transportation

  • Wye Switches (1.1 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Crossroads Community Church (1.2 miles)
  • St Catherine of Siena (2.2 miles)
  • Frankstown Park Missionary Church (2.6 miles)
  • Westminster Orthodox Presbyterian Church (2.6 miles)
  • Evangelical Independent Methodist Church (3.9 miles)
  • Altoona Apostolic Church (4.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (1.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.2 miles)
  • Panera Bread (3.4 miles)

Parks

  • Canterberry Canine Recreation Area (2.1 miles)
  • Chimney Rocks Park (2.4 miles)
  • Mansion Park (3.3 miles)
  • Central Blair Recreation Commn (4.2 miles)
  • Garfield Park (4.3 miles)

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