The Berkshire at Kensington

Pros

• The property is very well managed, and the residents are friendly, contributing to a welcoming environment.
• The staff demonstrates genuine care and follow-up for the residents' needs, making families feel supported.
• The community is clean and well-maintained, creating an inviting atmosphere for all.
• Residents appreciate the variety of activities offered, which promote engagement and social interaction.
• The amenities available, such as a workout room and bank, enhance the living experience for residents.
• New residents report being happy with their decision to move in and find great value for their money at this community.

Cons

• The resident experienced a decline in the community's quality due to new management, resulting in embarrassment for guests and unresolved maintenance issues.
• The community is described as very dirty and rundown, leading potential residents to look elsewhere.
• Management is deemed incompetent, contributing to a lack of available amenities and activities despite the initial positive offerings.
• An ongoing bedbug problem significantly detracted from the living experience, making it feel worse than living in a tent.
• Multiple reviews echo concerns about poor cleanliness standards, with dirty furniture and stained carpets reported in common areas.

Review

The landscape of senior living communities can vary significantly, as reflected in the mixed experiences shared by residents across different communities. A notable comparison emerges between those who have encountered unsatisfactory, deteriorating conditions and others who have found comfort and care in well-managed environments. For instance, one resident shares a concerning narrative of their eight-year tenure in a community that initially appeared welcoming but gradually fell into disrepair. They describe a range of maintenance issues, such as backed-up sinks, leaking pipes with buckets placed to catch drips that remained for months, and ongoing pest problems like bedbugs. These conditions left the resident feeling embarrassed about their living situation and disappointed with the property's management.

The dissatisfaction continues as other residents express similar sentiments about their communities' decline. One reviewer speaks candidly about how a once vibrant community turned into a dirty and rundown facility lacking essential offerings—such as banking services and health centers—that had initially drawn them there. They attribute this decline to incompetent management and note that even considering the pandemic's impact, the routine amenities expected from such residences have all but vanished.

On the flip side, several reviews highlight positive experiences at well-maintained facilities. One resident enthusiastically describes The Berkshire at Kensington in Waukesha, Wisconsin, expressing gratitude for being guided through the selection process by “A Place for Mom.” With personalized attention to their needs, they were able to find just the right place for their brother’s care. This dedication extended beyond mere listing; it was rooted in understanding individual requirements that resulted in successful placements.

Another resident of The Berkshire articulates their pleasure with both the living conditions and activities available within the community. Having moved from another state without prior knowledge of local facilities, they visited multiple locations before selecting this one based on its overall value for money and favorable atmosphere. Highlighting friendly staff members and an array of engaging activities available to residents enhances their enjoyment of life at this facility.

While some reviewers lament unkempt environments marked by neglectful management practices, contrasting testimonials provide glowing endorsements for staff engagement and cleanliness at other establishments. For instance, residents appreciate heightened levels of care without being part of an assisted living arrangement—highlighting how proactive staff ensures residents participate in fun outings or enjoy entertaining birthday celebrations featuring performers like comedians.

This divide encapsulates two distinct worlds within senior housing: those struggling with decay due to poor oversight versus thriving communities fostering positive interactions among residents propelled by supportive staff dynamics. There are tales emphasizing how vital it is not only to maintain physical spaces but also to cultivate vibrant social networks where seniors feel valued—even offering options like ordering meals from various restaurants rather than restricting dining choices further enhances livability.

In conclusion, these reviews collectively portray a complex tapestry representing both commendable achievements in senior living accommodations alongside alarming mismanagement underscoring challenges many face today while trying to find suitable homes for themselves or loved ones. Navigating these waters requires discerning judgment—a task made easier through reliable resources committed solely towards matching individuals with places respecting dignity alongside quality living standards.

This area of Waukesha, Wisconsin offers a variety of amenities suitable for senior living. With several restaurants, cafes, and pharmacies within close proximity, residents can easily access dining options and essential services. In case of medical emergencies or routine check-ups, there are hospitals and physicians' offices nearby. Additionally, the presence of parks allows for recreational activities and outdoor enjoyment. Places of worship provide spiritual nourishment and community connections. Theatres offer entertainment options for leisure time. Overall, this part of Waukesha provides a convenient and well-rounded environment for seniors looking to settle in a vibrant and welcoming neighborhood.

Restaurants

• The Blue Ribbon Of Waukesha (0.8 miles)
• Chili's Grill & Bar (0.9 miles)
• Culver's (1 miles)
• Tally's Tap & Eatery (1.2 miles)
• Taco John's (1.2 miles)
• People's Park (1.3 miles)
• McDonald's (1.4 miles)

Cafes

• Panera Bread (0.9 miles)
• Starbucks (1.7 miles)
• Mama D's Coffee (1.9 miles)
• Black Canyon Coffee (6.1 miles)
• Panera Bread (6.6 miles)
• Starbucks (6.9 miles)

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
• Walgreens (1.3 miles)
• Walmart Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
• Walgreens (2 miles)
• Walgreens (2 miles)
• Meijer Pharmacy (2.1 miles)
• Walgreens (2.7 miles)

Hospitals

• Waukesha Memorial Hospital (0.9 miles)
• Ascension Wisconsin Hospital - Waukesha Campus (5.5 miles)
• Waukesha Memorial Hospital (7.7 miles)

Parks

• Glacier Cone Park (1.3 miles)
• Waukesha Parks Rec & Forestry (2.1 miles)
• Rivers Crossing Park (3.2 miles)
• Wagner Park (5.7 miles)
• Fox Brook Park (6.6 miles)
• Lake Park Park (6.9 miles)
• The Big Backyard (7.2 miles)

Places of Worship

• First Congregational Church (1.6 miles)
• Riverglen Christian Church (5.3 miles)

Physicians

• Moreland Ear Nose & Throat (1.7 miles)
• Prohealth Care Medical Associates (2.3 miles)
• ProHealth Care Building (3.9 miles)
• Orthopaedic Associates Wisconsin (4.5 miles)
• West Suburban Center For Arthritis (5.1 miles)
• Wheaton Franciscan Medical GRP (5.7 miles)
• Aurora Wilkinson Medical Clinic (6.2 miles)

Theaters

• Silverspot Cinema - The Corners of Brookfield (5.2 miles)
• Hillside Cinema Delafield, Wi (6.6 miles)