5630 West Us Highway 2, Hurley, WI 54534
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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Melissa Matke initially liked the group home. She enjoyed doing the work at the workshop. Community House was the best place she could have gone. The staff at Community House were amazing, helpful, and caring.
They disliked that residents could not touch the fridge or prepare their own meals. They felt the meals were prepared by staff who were not nutritionists. They were unhappy about being made to go to work very early in the morning. They were disturbed by riding in short buses. A staff member stopped at her house to talk to her husband, leaving them on the bus. They were left on the bus in the heat while staff went into a dollar store with another person. They felt they were not helped to manage their money and were told they either didn't have enough money or that money was taken from their account. After chores, they were pressed to swim or spend money on things they didn't want. They were told that if they didn't comply, they would have to hire a babysitter from their own money. They endured fire drills at around 3-5 am every night, disrupting their sleep. They ran away twice due to unhappiness, and upon the second time were told they wouldn't be taken back.From the start, the experience with the Maple Leaf Group Home felt like a mixed bag. On one hand, there was a sense of belonging and purpose in the early days, and I did enjoy some aspects of the work and the sense of routine. But the structure quickly revealed itself to be wearing more on me than I expected. One of the most jarring aspects was the way basic daily life was managed: we weren't allowed to touch the fridge or prepare our own meals. The meals were prepared strictly by staff who, in my view, were not nutritionists or professionals in meal planning; they simply handled what was put in front of us. This built a sense of dependence that didn't feel empowering, and it stood out in contrast to any expectation I had about being supported as an adult living in a group home.
The daily schedule was another major point of contention. We were pushed to work very early in the morning, and while I understood the rationale behind early hours, it didn't align with what I wanted for myself. The transportation arrangements added another layer of unease. We rode around in short buses, which felt cramped and impersonal. There were incidents that left me unsettled and frustrated. On one occasion, a staff member stopped at her own house to talk to her husband, leaving us on the bus. In another, the same staff member and one other person went into a dollar store, leaving the rest of us on the bus in the heat with little guidance. These moments weren't isolated gripes - they painted a pattern of inconsistent supervision and a lack of accountability that was hard to swallow.
Money management within the home was another source of strain. It wasn't just about budgeting; it felt like a constant, controlling exercise. They would tell us how much money was being taken from our accounts, sometimes giving it back to us, sometimes telling us we didn't have enough. After completing chores like laundry and dinner, we were pushed to participate in activities - like swimming - or to spend money on things we didn't want or need. If you refused, they could require you to hire a babysitter for protection or supervision, taken from your own funds. It all felt coercive and rigid, a level of control that I found increasingly ridiculous and demeaning.
There was also a troubling pattern around safety protocols and the daily upheaval that came with it. Fire drills happened at around 3-5 am most nights, which was a brutal disruption to sleep given we already woke around 6 am. Fire drills are important, sure, but the timing and frequency were punitive in practice. It was hard to feel safe or secure when drills disrupted rest and routine to such a degree, especially when the rest of the day already felt tightly controlled.
The emotional toll of all of this culminated in two runaway attempts. I walked away twice because I could not tolerate the environment any longer. The second time, I was sent to a place called Community House in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. The staff there told me, harshly, that if I thought it was bad here, I wouldn't find another group home I'd like and that they wouldn't take me back. That moment was a stark, cruel reminder of how little my autonomy mattered to some in the Maple Leaf system. Yet Community House turned out to be the better fit for me in many ways. The staff there - about 90% of them - were amazing, helpful, and genuinely caring, and I never rode a small bus again after leaving Maple Leaf. It was a night-and-day difference in terms of how I was treated and supported.
When I look back, the choice to stay at Maple Leaf feels like it was fought with more desperation than anything else. I did find some positive elements - being able to participate in a shop-work program felt constructive, and I appreciated some of the hands-on work experiences - but the administrative and caregiving culture around basic rights, money, privacy, and daily routine overshadowed those moments. If there's any hope of change, it's hard to tell whether Maple Leaf has evolved since my experience, and I'd still strongly caution others to consider their options carefully. My overall conclusion is that, while Maple Leaf Group Home might work for some people, I would strongly advise exploring other programs first before seriously considering it.
In the end, my advice remains pragmatic: give Maple Leaf a chance if you feel you've exhausted your other options, but beware of the heavy control over personal finances, rigid daily structures, and the concerning transportation and staff reliability issues I encountered. If possible, look into alternatives like Community House or similar facilities where staff responsiveness, autonomy, and respect for resident choices are prioritized. My experience at Community House was markedly better, and it shaped how I view what a good group-home environment should feel like - supportive, respectful, and truly focused on helping you live as independently as possible within your own terms. It's a tough decision, and I wouldn't pretend it's easy, but the differences I found there were meaningful enough to justify suggesting others explore those options first.
5 resident community capacity
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.
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 Maple Leaf Group Home in Hurley, WI is a welcoming and fully-furnished assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to meet the needs of its residents. The community features a spacious dining room where delicious meals are prepared and served, catering to special dietary restrictions if needed. Housekeeping services ensure that the living spaces are always clean and tidy.
Residents can enjoy the beautiful outdoor space, whether it be for a leisurely stroll or sitting in the garden to relax. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet and telephone services are available for residents to stay connected with loved ones. Move-in coordination is provided to ensure a smooth transition into the community.
Care services are carefully tailored to assist residents with their daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The staff also coordinates with health care providers to ensure seamless communication regarding medical needs. Medication management is offered for those who require assistance in keeping track of their medications.
Transportation arrangement for medical purposes and doctor's appointments is provided, ensuring that residents have easy access to healthcare facilities. The community also boasts an array of nearby amenities including cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals.
With scheduled daily activities planned by the community, residents have opportunities for social engagement and participation in various recreational pursuits. At Maple Leaf Group Home in Hurley, WI, residents can experience comfort, convenience, and quality care within a vibrant community setting.
Maple Leaf Group Home is located at 5630 West Us Highway 2, Hurley, WI 54534 in Iron County, Wisconsin
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