Information last verified:
2091 Sams Elbow Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The facility is infested with roaches. The place smells like urine upon entry. There are about 25 cats on the porch. The reviewer could not get out of there quickly. Medical staff wear open-toe sandals with no socks. The stay was described as a week in hell. The facility deserves a negative rating. They constantly have patients escape. Escaped patients report being mistreated and not given their medicine. This place should not be considered for a loved one. This place needs to be shut down. There are police reports filed about constant issues over the years.Cedar Acres in West Columbia is best suited for no one seeking a safe, well-run, dignity-filled senior living experience. The persistent and wide-ranging concerns documented by multiple reviewers indicate this community should be considered only as a last-resort option when no alternatives exist and budgets are extremely constrained. Safety, cleanliness, and reliable care are not incidental features here; they are recurring, daily realities that erode basic resident well-being and trust.
Those who should seriously consider alternatives include families requiring dependable medical oversight, consistent communication, and an odor-free, sanitary environment. Reviews describe roach infestations and a pervasive urine smell that greets visitors, and potentially residents, upon entry. The presence of numerous cats on the porch adds hygiene and safety questions that compound general concerns about living conditions. Compounding these issues is a pattern of unresponsive staff and systems for sharing critical updates about loved ones, a combination that becomes especially perilous during emergencies or hospitalizations when timely information is essential. Notably, staff attire and conduct, such as medical personnel in open-toe sandals with no socks, further reflect a troubling lapse in professional standards.
The key positives that might justify a choice here are not evident in the reported experiences, and any tiny perceived advantages quickly collapse under the weight of the main cons. There is no documented evidence of consistent medical oversight, dependable care planning, or meaningful family communication that could offset the risks described. In practical terms, the lack of reliable clinical management, coupled with hygiene concerns and frequent crises, means the only plausible takeaway is heightened risk rather than any genuine value add. The overall picture is one of a facility where safety and daily quality of life are not reliably supported.
Operational reality at Cedar Acres, as conveyed by residents and observers, points to a pattern of instability. Reports of residents escaping, allegations of mistreatment, and police involvement paint a picture of a facility struggling with containment and governance. On the medical side, episodes of patients not receiving prescribed medications, unexpected hospitalizations, and slow or absent family notifications amplify concerns about care continuity. The communication breakdown is acute: phones routinely go unanswered, voicemail systems are described as untrustworthy, and updating contact information appears inconsistent. These are not minor service gaps; they are fundamental barriers to safeguarding residents’ health and dignity.
For families evaluating options, the prudent path is a rigorous, concrete vetting process focused on safety, accountability, and transparency. Demand recent state inspection outcomes, and insist on unannounced tours to assess cleanliness, odor control, and overall living conditions. Probe staff-to-resident ratios, medication handling practices, and the facility’s emergency response and family notification protocols. Speak with front-line workers and supervisors to gauge consistency and empathy in communication. If a facility cannot provide timely updates or shows ongoing red flags during a visit, that should decisively steer decisions toward alternatives. When a move is necessary, create a clear contingency plan that includes a primary point of contact, scheduled progress checks, and a rapid relocation path if health or safety deteriorates. In sum, Cedar Acres represents a high-risk option; the recommended course is to pursue other communities first and treat Cedar Acres as a last resort only after thorough, skeptical verification and consensus among family members.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Columbia Metropolitan (2 miles away)
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."
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.
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. 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. 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.Cedar Acres in West Columbia, SC is an assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to meet the needs of its residents. With a focus on promoting spiritual well-being, devotional services off-site are available for those who wish to partake in religious activities. In addition, indoor common areas provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for socializing and relaxation.
The community also offers specialized care for individuals with diabetes. With trained staff members on hand, residents can receive assistance and support with their diabetic care needs.
To ensure convenience and accessibility, Cedar Acres is located in close proximity to various essential establishments. There is a pharmacy nearby, making it easy for residents to obtain medication and other health-related supplies. Additionally, there is at least one physician located nearby for any medical consultations or check-ups. For dining options, there are five restaurants within reach where residents can enjoy delicious meals and socialize with friends or family.
Transportation is readily available with three transportation options nearby. This allows residents to easily travel to appointments, run errands, or explore the surrounding area.
Overall, Cedar Acres provides a comfortable and enriching living experience for seniors seeking assisted living services in West Columbia, SC. The community's amenities, care services, and convenient location contribute to a high quality of life for its residents.
Cedar Acres is located at 2091 Sams Elbow Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170 in Lexington County, South Carolina
Lighthouse Residential Care Facility
West Columbia, SC
Warm, inviting assisted living with comprehensive care and abundant amenities.
Stephanie's Residential Care Facility
West Columbia, SC
Small, home-like setting with personalized 24/7 care and diabetes-friendly meals.
Twilite Manor
Cayce, SC
New management has improved care quality, staff responsiveness, and overall cleanliness.
Twilite Manor Adult Residential Care
Cayce, SC
Memory-care-focused with 24/7 supervision.
Opus Post Acute Rehabilitation
West Columbia, SC
Caring staff, strong rehab services, and pleasant dining and amenities.
Carolina Gardens At West Columbia
West Columbia, SC
Friendly staff, good food, and a variety of resident activities.
Colonial Gardens Transitional Assisted Living and Memory Care
West Columbia, SC
Friendly, attentive staff with memory-care-focused programming and a clean, welcoming environment.
Grace Caregivers, LLC
Lexington, SC
Consistent, friendly caregivers at affordable rates.
The Village at Southlake
Lexington, SC
Friendly staff, active social calendar, and chef-prepared dining with multiple housing options.
Medicare Coverage for Assisted Living: An In-Depth Exploration
Medicare does not cover assisted living costs, as it focuses on acute medical needs and short-term care, with exceptions for certain medically necessary services like physical therapy. Individuals must explore other options such as Medicaid, veterans' benefits, or long-term care insurance to manage these expenses effectively.
Choosing 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.
Understanding 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.
