6755 North 55 Th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53223
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Sara and Clarissa at the front counter are consistently helpful to visitors and residents. The staff routinely arranges wheelchairs, showers for special occasions, and helps locate glasses and dentures for residents. Kim in the financial office is kind-hearted and supportive toward residents and families. Jules and Noah, along with a second-shift nurse known as Nellie, are part of Willowcrest's dedicated care team. Willowcrest's staff is described as wonderful and makes residents feel cared for. The facility is regarded by a family member as the best among similar facilities, with patient, responsive care. The food is nutritious, well-prepared, and considered edible by residents. The East wing staff is praised as great, with Sam D. specifically appreciated. The care team demonstrates patience and treats residents' needs as important.
One reviewer described the facility as a "puppy mill" of rehab centers, with expectations that only got worse. The smells were described as putrid and the place as a "petri dish," implying unsanitary conditions. It was suggested that administrators should be forced to eat a week of the meals served, highlighting perceived food issues. The food was described as disgusting, often uncooked, gray, and inedible. Residents waited long for basic care (e.g., bedpan or bathroom assistance) and calls were frequently unaddressed for extended periods. Staff were criticized as inattentive, not knowing what was going on, and communication was poor. The facility was labeled awful with warnings not to send a loved one there; some reviews gave it zero stars. Dehydration, UTIs, and bedsores were reported as a result of inadequate water delivery and care. Patients were moved or discharged without family notice, and essential therapies (PT/OT) were not provided during holidays or at times of need.Willowcrest Health Services surfaces in these accounts as a place where a lot of care and kindness can be found, but where experiences also diverge dramatically depending on who you ask and when you visit. On the one hand, multiple families describe a welcoming environment with standout staff, thoughtful problem-solving, and genuine concern for residents. On the other hand, several reviews tell harrowing stories of neglect, poor conditions, and communication breakdowns that left loved ones feeling unsafe and under-served. Taken together, they paint a complex portrait of a facility that can be both a beacon of support and a source of serious worry, depending on the day and the department involved.
Front-line warmth and problem-solving routinely come up in the positive testimonies. Sara and Clarissa at the front counter are repeatedly highlighted as especially helpful, with one family noting that they consistently assist with practical needs like borrowing a wheelchair or arranging showers for special occasions. They are praised for going the extra mile, including helping to locate mom's glasses and dentures. The informal, compassionate exchanges extend to the social worker, Elizabeth, who is mentioned as a key figure in coordinating care. Kim in the financial office is also singled out for kindness and helpfulness, with a family member recalling a personal connection - Patricia Jones's recollection that Kim might even have gone to school with her - adding a sense of personal warmth to the professional care. Across shifts, staff members such as Jules, Noah, and a second-shift nurse known as Nellie are remembered positively for their dedication. One family member explicitly recommends Willowcrest to friends, underscoring the impression that, in the right moments and with the right people, the staff can be exceptional.
Beyond the counter and administration, several residents and families emphasize the overall care environment as one of the strongest assets. There are strong statements about Willowcrest being a place with "the best staff" and with edible, well-prepared meals - a notable point for families who value nutrition and morale as part of rehabilitation and daily living. A particularly hopeful note comes from a husband who has been at Willowcrest since September 2024, describing Willowcrest as the best facility among several others that have housed him in his need for outside care. He stresses the importance of patience and of recognizing that everyone's needs matter, and he encourages others to consider a tour and speak directly with staff and residents to gauge fit. In another account, a family member praises the staff who have remained consistently responsive and professional over many months, with the food being nutritious and tailored to individual requirements. This kind of continuity and attentiveness is highlighted as a distinguishing strength.
There are also positive, personal testimonies about particular residents and families who have found value in Willowcrest's care. One reviewer notes that their mother, a long-time resident, has benefited from a responsive and caring team that has remained dedicated and professional through difficult caregiving tasks. A relative of CJ Medd, who has been a client for more than two years, speaks to highly responsive, professional, and compassionate staff who handle demanding care with grace, and they commend the nutritious, individualized food. In short, for some families, Willowcrest delivers reliable, considerate care and a sense of partnership in the caregiving journey.
Yet, these glowing assessments sit side-by-side with deeply troubling accounts that cannot be ignored. A number of reviews describe Willowcrest as a place where conditions deteriorate into a crisis of neglect and poor hygiene. One reviewer characterizes the facility as "a puppy mill of rehab centers," detailing a sequence of incidents: a resident contracted norovirus and ended up at Willowcrest after the hospital, followed by reports of putrid smells so strong that masking was advised, and a harsh critique of the kitchen where the reviewer felt the food was uncooked, gray, or otherwise inedible. This account includes bitter admonitions directed at administrators, urging them to experience a meal at the facility themselves to understand what residents endure. The worst observations describe long delays in basic care - meals and bedpan assistance that never arrive on time, people waiting over an hour for help, and a sense that residents are not being attended to with adequate urgency or attention.
Several reviews speak to a broader pattern of neglect, frustration, and fear. The repeated refrain is that the staff often seems overwhelmed or inattentive, with residents left waiting and a perceived lack of accountability among caregivers. One strongly worded account explicitly calls the place "awful," with statements that staff do not pay attention to residents and that loved ones should not be sent there. The intensity of these claims grows when recounting specific days: a "Day 14" that supposedly marked ongoing neglect, with a resident left waiting for bathroom assistance for 25 minutes, a nurse who appeared unaware of the patient's needs, and CNAs who were reportedly more focused on paperwork than patient care. The reviewer describes a cascade of failures - no responses to push alerts, dehydration, missed medications, and a distressing failure to address basic hygiene. Another long, multi-day narrative describes a patient who was discharged to rehab without family notice, was deprived of water and bathroom assistance for the first 20 hours, and then spent days with PT/OT not arriving during a holiday period. These testimonies culminate in repeated calls for urgent improvement and even warnings against bringing loved ones to Willowcrest.
The spectrum of experiences culminates in a stark picture of a facility that can deliver extraordinary, compassionate care in some cases while failing in serious, high-stakes ways in others. The contrast between the warmly remembered individuals - Sara, Clarissa, Elizabeth, Kim, Jules, Noah, Nellie, and the positive words of families who felt seen and supported - and the harrowing, detailed accounts of neglect and mismanagement makes it clear that Willowcrest's quality of care is not consistent across the board. For some families, the facility represents a trusted place with dedicated staff and reliable services; for others, it represents a painful reminder of the dangers of under-staffing, lack of timely attention, and inadequate basic care.
In the end, the stories suggest that Willowcrest Health Services can be a source of genuine support and comfort when the right team is in place and when communication flows smoothly. They also signal a need for ongoing attention to staffing, training, accountability, and the consistent delivery of basic, life-sustaining care. Families considering Willowcrest are advised to engage proactively: tour the facility, speak with multiple staff members and residents, observe shifts, and ask candid questions about meal quality, hydration practices, response times, and how concerns are escalated and resolved. For some residents and their families, Willowcrest will be a place of safety, kindness, and dependable care; for others, it may require vigilant oversight and advocacy to ensure that every resident's rights, needs, and dignity are upheld.
4 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.
Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support 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.
General Mitchell International (14 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.Willow Creek Residential Care II in Milwaukee, WI is a board and care home that offers a comfortable and supportive living environment for seniors. The community is fully furnished and features amenities such as a dining room, garden, outdoor space, telephone, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access.
Residents at Willow Creek Residential Care II receive personalized assistance with activities of daily living including bathing, dressing, and transfers. The dedicated staff also coordinates with healthcare providers to ensure that each resident receives the necessary medical attention. The community provides support for individuals with diabetes through specialized diets and medication management.
Meals are prepared and served on-site, taking into consideration any special dietary restrictions of the residents. Scheduled daily activities are offered to keep residents engaged and entertained.
Conveniently located near 2 cafes, 4 parks, 13 pharmacies, 2 physicians' offices, 19 restaurants, transportation options for medical needs, places of worship, and hospitals nearby provide easy accessibility to essential services.
At Willow Creek Residential Care II, residents can enjoy a comfortable and caring environment while receiving the assistance they need in their daily lives.
Willow Creek Residential Care II is located at 6755 North 55 Th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53223 in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
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