Salem Hill Haven in Spring Mills, PA

424 Heckman Cemetery Road, Spring Mills, PA 16875

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

3.5 from 4 reviews
5 stars
2
4 stars
0
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 stars
1

Assisted Living

Overall Review of Salem Hill Haven

Pros

  • pro Salem Hill is wonderfully unique in the care it offers.
  • pro The staff is friendly and efficient.
  • pro They truly care about their patients.
  • pro Dan and Donna are available and willing to answer questions and field concerns.
  • pro They keep a personal watch over the maintenance and operation of the home.
  • pro The rooms are clean and tastefully decorated, and the food is good.
  • pro The care provided is excellent, and the facility is recommended for those needing assisted living.

Cons

  • pro They felt the facility is where loved ones are sent to die quicker.
  • pro They described the treatment of tenants as lackluster.
  • pro They claimed that care was nonexistent.

Review

Salem Hill Haven in Spring Mills, PA is best suited for families seeking a small, home-like environment where staff engagement feels personal and residents are treated with a caregiver's attentiveness. The setting rewards relationships over routine, with owners who are described as hands-on and genuinely invested in every resident's day-to-day well-being. For families prioritizing a sense of belonging, accessibility of leadership, and a partner-like approach to daily care, this community can deliver a comforting, familiar atmosphere that many aging adults value as they transition out of independent living.

However, alternatives should be considered for residents with higher medical needs or those requiring highly consistent, clinical oversight. The reviews show a wide variance in experiences: some families praise compassionate, family-style care and responsive staff, while others warn of neglect and inadequate attention to basic care. This divergence signals that outcomes at Salem Hill Haven may hinge on individual shifts, staff availability, and the particular care team on duty. Families facing significant rehab, complex medical routines, or advanced dementia may want options with stronger formalized clinical protocols and more predictable staffing.

On the positive side, the strongest takeaway is the warmth and accessibility of the care team. Reports highlight friendly, efficient staff who listen and tailor answers and solutions to residents' needs. The leadership - specifically Dan and Donna - appears to maintain a personal watch over operations, which translates into direct lines of communication for families. Residents' rooms are described as clean and attractively decorated, and the overall environment is portrayed as homey. Food is cited as good, and the setting supports a sense of being cared for rather than merely housed.

Yet the most cautionary notes cannot be ignored. One review characterizes the care as nonexistent, describing a profound lack of attention to residents' needs, while another harshly questions the facility's motive and outcomes. Those accounts, though not universal, raise legitimate questions about consistency, staff training, oversight, and the resilience of care across shifts. When evaluating Salem Hill Haven, it is essential to recognize that a single peak experience does not guarantee uniform quality, and families must probe into how care plans are developed, how staff communicate changes, and how quickly needs are escalated.

Given the mixed signal from the reviews, the decision hinges on risk tolerance and the resident's care profile. The pros - personalized attention, strong leadership presence, and a home-like, engaging atmosphere - can offset concerns for seniors who thrive in intimate settings and who require mainly assistance with daily activities and social engagement rather than intensive medical management. The cons - potential inconsistencies in care quality and the possibility of neglect - underscore the need for rigorous due diligence: request current staffing ratios, review recent care plans, meet the care director, and observe care routines during a visit. A trial stay or phased transition, coupled with frequent check-ins, can help determine whether the environment truly aligns with a loved one's needs.

Ultimately, Salem Hill Haven emerges as a careful yes for families prioritizing connection, accessibility, and a dignified, homelike day-to-day experience. It should be a cautious yes for those who can rely on stable, high-quality oversight and who are comfortable actively verifying that the care aligns with expectations. For residents who require robust clinical services, specialized memory support, or steady, uniformly delivered care, alternatives with deeper nursing coverage or larger, more standardized operations may be preferable. Thorough visits, clear questions about staffing and care escalation, and a realistic appraisal of what constitutes consistent quality will guide the best fit for each loved one.

Features

Housing

  • 36 resident community capacity 36 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

  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • 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.
  • Devotional services off-site Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
  • 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.
  • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • 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

  • University Park (16 miles away) University Park (16 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.
  • Ambulatory care Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
  • 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.
  • Diabetic care Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
  • 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.
  • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
  • 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

  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • 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.
  • Devotional activities offsite Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
  • 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

Salem Hill Haven is an assisted living community located in Spring Mills, PA. This community offers a variety of amenities to enhance the residents' quality of life. Each resident can enjoy cable or satellite TV in their private rooms, and there is also a small library for those who enjoy reading. The community provides fully furnished accommodations, including a kitchenette for residents who prefer to cook their own meals.

Housekeeping services are available to ensure that the common areas and the residents' rooms are clean and well-maintained. Wi-Fi and high-speed internet are provided throughout the community, allowing residents to stay connected with friends and family.

Salem Hill Haven offers 24-hour supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Trained staff are available to assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The staff also provide medication management services, ensuring that each resident receives their prescribed medications on time.

The community places a strong emphasis on mental wellness, offering a mental wellness program designed to support the emotional well-being of residents. Special dietary needs are accommodated by providing diabetes diet options and other special dietary restrictions.

Residents can enjoy restaurant-style dining where delicious meals are prepared and served by trained culinary staff. The dining experience can be tailored to accommodate special dietary restrictions.

To promote an active lifestyle, Salem Hill Haven offers a range of scheduled daily activities for residents to participate in. In addition, resident-run activities allow individuals to take charge of planning events that cater to their interests and hobbies.

The location of Salem Hill Haven provides convenient access to nearby amenities such as pharmacies, restaurants, transportation options, and places of worship. This allows residents to easily access essential services and maintain social connections within the local community.

Overall, Salem Hill Haven provides a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks while promoting independence and overall well-being.

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • Penns Valley Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
  • Mc Lanahan Drug Store (8 miles)
  • Weis Pharmacy (11 miles)
  • Palotx Weis Markets 18 (11 miles)
  • Rite Aid (12.3 miles)
  • Parrish Apothecary Shop (13 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (13.2 miles)

Restaurants

  • Elk Creek Cafe + Aleworks (3.3 miles)
  • Homans General Store (7.1 miles)
  • Hublersburg Inn (7.3 miles)
  • Sweet Indulgence Desserts (10.5 miles)
  • Denny's (10.8 miles)
  • Wilderness Lodge (10.9 miles)
  • Wendy's (11 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Family Life Of Penns Valley (4.2 miles)
  • Tri-Penn Charge United Church (5.4 miles)
  • Howard United Methodist Church (11.8 miles)
  • Lighthouse Reformed Churchhoward Howard (11.8 miles)
  • Harvest Fields (14.2 miles)
  • Evangelical Lutheran Church (14.5 miles)
  • St Marks Evangelical Lutheran Church (15.1 miles)

Transportation

  • Confer's Taxidermy (4.5 miles)
  • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (12.9 miles)
  • U-Haul Moving & Storage (13.8 miles)

Cafes

  • Earlystown Diner (8.2 miles)
  • My Cafe Buzz (13.2 miles)
  • Bonfatto's (13.2 miles)
  • Pump Station Cafe (14.9 miles)
  • Café Lemont (15.5 miles)

Hospitals

  • The Meadows Behavioral Health Treatment Facility (10.2 miles)
  • Mt Nittany Medical Center (10.4 miles)
  • Nittany Valley Health South (11.6 miles)
  • Healthsouth Rehabilitation Center (11.6 miles)
  • Penn State Health Medical Group - Benner Pike (14.4 miles)
  • Ucbh (15.1 miles)
  • Mount Nittany Physician Group Ear, Nose & Throat (15.3 miles)

Physicians

  • Centre Hall Audiology and Hearing Aid Center (11.2 miles)
  • Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services (11.6 miles)
  • Centre/Huntingdon Tapestry of Health (13.2 miles)
  • Bellefonte Medical Clinic PC (13.2 miles)
  • Bellefonte Medical Center (13.2 miles)
  • Dr Theresa Kaufman (14.1 miles)
  • Penn State Health Dermatology (14.4 miles)

Parks

  • Bald Eagle State Park (12.7 miles)
  • Talleyrand Park (13.1 miles)
  • Mifflin County Youth Fair (14.8 miles)
  • Oak Hall Regional Park (14.8 miles)
  • Spring Creek Park (15.6 miles)
  • Dalevue Park (16 miles)

Theaters

  • Premiere Theatres 12 (14.1 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Salem Hill Haven?

Nearby Communities

  • Wynwood House at Penns Valley

    Wynwood House at Penns Valley

    Centre Hall, PA

    4.8 from 5 reviews
     

    pro Accommodating owner; well-maintained building; active resident community.

  • Schreffler Manor

    Schreffler Manor

    Pleasant Gap, PA

     
     

    pro Spiritual well-being focus with diabetic care, on-site activities, and easy access to nearby amenities.

  • Governors Gate Assoc

    Governors Gate Assoc

    Bellefonte, PA

    3.2 from 5 reviews
     

  • Centre Crest

    Centre Crest

    Bellefonte, PA

    3.3 from 56 reviews
     

    pro Caring staff with engaging activities and decent dining.

  • Brockerhoff House

    Brockerhoff House

    Bellefonte, PA

     
     

    pro Personalized care with extensive amenities and convenient access to dining, pharmacies, healthcare, and transport.

  • Care For People

    Care For People

    Bellefonte, PA

     
     

    pro Personalized diabetes care and a vibrant, social lifestyle with on-site activities.

  • Wynwood House at Nittany Valley

    Wynwood House at Nittany Valley

    Boalsburg, PA

    4.2 from 9 reviews
     

    pro Small, homey setting with accommodating staff and customizable rooms.

  • Mount Nittany Residences

    Mount Nittany Residences

    State College, PA

    4 from 17 reviews
    $3,900 / month

    pro Competitive private-room price ($3,900/month) with diabetes care available.

  • William Penn Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center

    William Penn Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center

    Lewistown, PA

     
    $5,250 / month

    pro Extensive amenities and care services.

Related Resources

  • is assisted living tax deductibleIs Assisted Living Deductible on Your Taxes? Understanding the Complexities of Assisted Living Expenses and Deductions

    The deductibility of assisted living expenses on taxes hinges on factors like the individual's medical condition and service nature, typically requiring the resident to be "chronically ill" per IRS definitions. Taxpayers may deduct eligible medical expenses related to personal care services but generally not rent unless primarily for medical care, and they should maintain thorough documentation to support claims while considering itemizing versus standard deductions.

  • va benefits for assisted livingAssisted Living Support for Veterans: A Complete and Detailed Overview

    The guide highlights the importance of assisted living facilities for aging veterans needing daily support, discusses unique challenges they face, and outlines available financial assistance from the VA, including the Aid and Attendance program. It emphasizes understanding eligibility criteria and navigating the VA system to access necessary benefits effectively.

  • assisted living vs skilled nursingExploring the Contrasts Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

    The article compares assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, detailing their differing levels of assistance, medical support, cost structures, and day-to-day experiences. It emphasizes that assisted living is for those needing help with daily activities while maintaining independence, whereas skilled nursing facilities provide intensive medical care with 24-hour staff supervision.