The Arbor at Bremerton in Mercer Island, WA
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7900 SE 28th Street, Mercer Island, WA 98040
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The staff are absolutely wonderful, with genuine care for the residents. Vicki Nelson is exceptionally kind and treats residents with kindness and respect, often checking in and coordinating outings. Donna is praised for her care and patience in helping families. Brock, the director, is a smart, hands-on leader who brings peace of mind to families. Alida, the full-time nurse, is a pleasure to deal with and keeps families informed. The Arbor is new, immaculate, and beautifully designed, with a warm, home-like atmosphere. The food is good and the menu is well-thought-out. Enrichment activities provide meaningful socialization and mental stimulation.
The facility lacks adequate communication and fails to provide information required by state qualifications. It is understaffed, with not enough staff for the resident population. Corporate management harassed the family over Medicaid payments and threatened eviction. Residents have not been bathed for weeks and inhalers were withheld. Residents were fed cold sandwiches for dinner for two weeks, and clothes and toiletries disappear. The head nurse was reportedly smelled of alcohol. The facility is expensive and appears to prioritize profit over resident care, draining Medicaid funds. Final days are marred by restricted visits and staff unavailability. The building feels cold and unloving, not a place of peace and joy.The Arbor at Bremerton is best suited for families seeking a memory-care oriented environment with a modern, attractive campus and a willingness to invest in private-pay care where some staff consistently demonstrate warmth and competence. This community can work well for residents who respond to enrichment activities, value personal room personalization, and appreciate a setting that feels fresh and well-maintained. Those who can tolerate a degree of variability in day-to-day staffing and who want close family involvement to compensate for potential gaps may find it a workable choice. It is not a universal fit, but for families prioritizing a newer facility and a few standout caregivers, the Arbor can deliver meaningful moments of connection.
Alternatives should be strongly considered by families prioritizing fail-safe staffing, consistently transparent communication, and a history of steady, high-touch care. Several reviews flag persistent understaffing and fragmented communication as the facility's Achilles' heel, with several accounts of meals skipped, delayed care, and residents left unsupervised. For families who cannot accept occasional gaps in supervision, who prefer a smaller, privately owned setting with potentially higher caregiver-to-resident ratios, or who want a facility with an unambiguous emphasis on safety over aesthetics, other options - such as smaller adult-family homes or non-Medicaid private facilities - may be more reliable choices.
On the positive side, The Arbor's campus often earns praise for its design, upkeep, and the sense that staff genuinely care for residents. The building's newness, pleasant common spaces, and protected outdoor areas create a hopeful backdrop for day-to-day life. Several residents and families highlight meaningful personal touches: warm welcomes from staff, rooms that feel homey, and active engagement through enrichment programs. Specific caregivers receive repeated commendations for their accessibility and compassion, and some families describe the care as feeling like a family environment rather than a sterile institution. For those who encounter the right combination of staff and leadership, these strengths can translate into real quality-of-life gains.
The flip side is substantial and not easily dismissed. Understaffing, reported turnover, and limited visibility into day-to-day operations undermine consistency and perceived safety. Multiple reviews recount delayed meals, skipped activities, missed baths, and even gaps in essential medication or medical communication. Allegations of inappropriate pressure from management on families, including Medicaid-related disputes and threats of eviction, color the experience with fear and mistrust. In memory-care settings, these dynamics can amplify resident distress and family anxiety, especially when visitors repeatedly encounter a cold, unresponsive environment during vulnerable moments.
Ultimately, the key pros - modern, well-kept facilities; accessible, caring individual staff; and robust activity options - do offset only partially against the cons. For families who can provide meticulous oversight, schedule regular visits, and advocate actively for continuous staffing, the Arbor offers a credible option that can deliver moments of dignity, comfort, and connection. However, the negative patterns around staffing, communication, and financial stress point to a higher risk profile that will not suit every resident, particularly those requiring intensive, consistent supervision or those with heightened sensitivity to caregiver turnover and administrative friction.
Practical guidance for families considering The Arbor is to enter with a rigorous, investigative mindset. Request detailed staffing ratios by shift and unit, ask to review incident and care logs, and insist on direct conversations with frontline supervisors and the administrator. Meet multiple families with loved ones currently living there to gauge day-to-day dynamics and responsiveness. Explore alternatives in parallel - especially smaller, privately owned memory-care homes - that may provide steadier staffing and a more intimate feel. If choosing The Arbor, pair the move with a proactive care plan, clear expectations with the leadership team, and a family-to-care-team communication routine that keeps care visible, timely, and centered on dignity.
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.
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 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 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.
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 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.
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 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.
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 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.
Seattle-Tacoma International (10 miles away)
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 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 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 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 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. Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
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 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 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.
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.
Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life. 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 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. 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. 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.The Arbor at Bremerton in Mercer Island, WA is a premier assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents. The community features a spacious dining room where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the staff. Each apartment is fully furnished, providing residents with the convenience of moving in without any hassle.
The Arbor at Bremerton boasts beautifully manicured gardens and outdoor spaces where residents can relax and enjoy the fresh air. Housekeeping services are provided to keep their living spaces clean and tidy. Move-in coordination assistance is also available to make the transition process as smooth as possible.
Residents have access to telephone services and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, allowing them to stay connected with their loved ones and the outside world. The community offers various care services such as assistance with activities of daily living, bathing, dressing, and transfers. The staff also coordinates with health care providers to ensure personalized care for each resident. Special dietary restrictions and diabetes diets are catered for in meal preparation and service.
Transportation arrangements for medical purposes, including transportation to doctors' appointments, are available for the convenience of residents. The community also provides scheduled daily activities to keep residents engaged and entertained.
Located in Mercer Island, there are numerous amenities within close proximity to The Arbor at Bremerton. Residents can easily access 10 cafes, 8 parks, 18 pharmacies, 6 physicians' offices, 15 restaurants, 6 transportation options, 1 theater nearby. Additionally, there are 4 hospitals available nearby for any medical needs.
The Arbor at Bremerton offers a welcoming environment with top-notch amenities and care services that prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of its residents.
The Arbor at Bremerton is located at 7900 SE 28th Street, Mercer Island, WA 98040 in King County, Washington
The Arbor at Bremerton on seniors.fyi includes 6 photos including images showing interior, windows, lighting, dining, bedroom, plant, lights, outdoor, and more.
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