Dept Of State Hospitals - Napa

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Dept Of State Hospitals - Napa

2100 Napa-Vallejo Highway, Napa, CA 94558

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.4 from 33 reviews
5 stars
17
4 stars
4
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
12

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Dept Of State Hospitals - Napa

Pros

  • pro The care on the adolescent ward was described as excellent.
  • pro The grounds and setting were beautiful and healing.
  • pro The staff were awesome and truly cared for their patients.
  • pro The place helped individuals get through their darkest times.
  • pro Reviewers remember Napa State Hospital as a great place for help and recovery from mental illness.

Cons

  • pro The place is described as Hell manifested.
  • pro It is portrayed as more of a prison than a hospital, with people going in and never coming back out.
  • pro Patients are strapped to beds and subjected to what is described as pure torture.
  • pro The staff are accused of not helping people and merely drugging them.
  • pro Psychiatrists are labeled insane, with admissions that people would rather die than seek their help.
  • pro The environment is described with demonic imagery, including wallpaper and horror-themed references.
  • pro The owners are alleged to be serial killer parents.

Review

Napa State Hospital surfaces here as a place of rugged memory and legacies, a campus that has meant many different things to different people over the decades. The accounts gathered from former patients, visitors, and occasional ghost-hunters paint a picture of a sprawling complex that is at once storied, haunting, healing, and deeply contested. Some came seeking safety or care, others chasing legends, and still others recount moments of grace amid the institutional routines. Taken together, the collection reveals how one institution can be both a sanctuary and a site of struggle, depending on who is telling the story and when it was told.

One strand of memory speaks to the thrill and danger of wandering the grounds with a sense of mystery. A report of a "Cramps live at Napa State Hospital 1978" curiosity turns into a tense encounter with security: a team planning a ghost-hunting excursion is stopped by state hospital police, only to be reassured - briefly - by a team member who claims they have permission. A stray spirit allegedly warns, "get away," leaving a charged tension between the thrill of the unknown and the reality of a restricted, monitored space. The lingering impression is that the old hospital is a magnet for legends as much as for memories of care, a place where the supernatural and the real press close to one another.

Another thread focuses on the human costs of treatment and the fragility of bodily health within the hospital system. A patient recounts a hard encounter with a physician, Dr. Cosgrove, who "forced me to be on medications" after what was believed to be misdiagnosis of schizophrenia. Risperidone is singled out as a medication linked to breathing problems that persisted for years, a consequence described with specificity as having begun at the start of that treatment. The account extends beyond a single bad experience to a formal grievance - claims of professional negligence, a potential civil suit, and complaints about disrespect and threats, including a doctor reportedly promising a shot if the patient refused the medication. The narrative emphasizes how language barriers and unfamiliarity with English-speaking clinicians compounded fear, and how a patient was warned of mortal consequences in the very moment of describing breathing distress. The thread ends with a sense of ongoing suffering and a plea for accountability that remains unresolved.

Yet the hospital is also remembered as a place of meaningful support and gradual recovery. In a 1970s recollection, a patient who was diagnosed as catatonic in 1974 describes a year-and-a-half experience that began on the adolescent ward and later moved to the adult ward. The care on the adolescent side is painted as excellent, with a dedicated schoolteacher who worked to engage a largely unresponsive student. The occupational therapist and a "courier" duty, which offered something like purposeful movement through the grounds, helped the patient walk and feel connected to the surroundings. The grounds themselves are described as healing and beautiful, a setting that seems to have made a difference in a time of crisis. The memory culminates in gratitude for staff who supported the patient's sense of self at a deeply vulnerable moment, and the sense that Napa helped reconstitute a fragile identity.

Other reminiscences insist Napa could be a place of steady, meaningful care, not just a backdrop for drama. A memory from 1979 and a later one from 2001 recall a range of experiences, from the practical to the spiritual. A line about a chaplain, David Wright, suggests a remembered era in which spiritual care or ritual played a protective or comforting role for some patients. The wall painting of the Book of Exodus in the dining hall, the "GATE to say this is the North" reference, and other biblical motifs are invoked as part of the institution's atmosphere, tying a sense of sacred or moral meaning to the physical place. Even as the campus is described with the grandeur of its grounds, these anecdotes anchor Napa in a social and cultural fabric that some still find meaningful.

The tone oscillates between admiration and critique, with a persistent undercurrent of ambivalence. Some voices celebrate Napa as a place that helped people regain their footing, suggesting that the environment offered opportunities to avoid homelessness and to rebuild a sense of purpose. One commenter states outright that Napa was a "great hospital" and that staff were "awesome" and genuinely cared, even as they acknowledge the broader challenges of mental health care. Others, however, express a harsher view of psychiatry and the medical system, arguing that psychiatrists often act out of self-interest, that patients are overmedicated, and that the industry profits from their suffering. The tension is real: a place can be praised as a cradle for recovery in one memory and condemned as a prison-like, overbearing institution in another.

A darker, more sensational current runs through the collection as well. Several entries echo a fearsome atmosphere - phrases like "American Horror Story asylum," "strap you to beds," and "pure torture" surface alongside tales of care and compassion. The same posts also acknowledge that some patients or family members found real support, with notes of gratitude toward staff who helped them endure long, hard periods. The juxtaposition is stark: Napa is described as both terrifying and healing, a place where both trauma and resilience coexisted in the same corridors, rooms, and exterior spaces.

Finally, the set of remarks closes with a note on rumor and controversy that sits just beneath the surface of memory. Some posts speculate about the hospital's ownership and the people behind it, invoking legends about "serial killer parents" and connections to centers of entertainment in San Francisco. Whether factual or rumor, these strands contribute to a mythology surrounding Napa that people remember in ways colored by fear, fascination, and a desire to understand how such a place could be both a refuge and a risk. The overall portrait, then, is not a single verdict but a mosaic: Napa State Hospital as a real, sprawling institution with a complicated history, capable of saving lives and trapping some in fear, a site where personal stories - of healing, of harm, of spiritual solace, and of ghost-seeking lore - interweave across decades.

Features

Housing

  • 36 resident community capacity 36 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV 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 room 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 furnished 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.
  • Garden 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 services 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.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination 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 space 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.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • Telephone 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 available 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.

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 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 assistance 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 bathing 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 dressing 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 transfers 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.
  • Diabetes diet 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 service 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 management 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.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Special dietary restrictions 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.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet 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 restrictions 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.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities 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.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • Scheduled daily activities 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.

Description

The Dept Of State Hospitals - Napa in Napa, CA is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The community provides fully furnished accommodations with cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and a small library for leisurely reading.

Residents at Dept Of State Hospitals - Napa can enjoy restaurant-style dining with special dietary restrictions catered to. The community also offers assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management and a mental wellness program are provided to ensure the health and well-being of each resident.

For recreational activities, the community offers resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities for residents to socialize and engage in. There are also two cafes nearby for residents to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea, five parks for outdoor enjoyment, eight pharmacies for easy access to medication needs, 26 physicians for medical care, 20 restaurants for dining out options, one transportation service nearby for convenience, and one place of worship nearby for spiritual support.

Dept Of State Hospitals - Napa is committed to providing quality care and a comfortable living environment for its residents while ensuring their safety and overall well-being.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • In-N-Out Burger (0.6 miles)
  • Angele Restaurant & Bar (1.6 miles)
  • Celadon (1.7 miles)
  • Morimoto Napa (1.7 miles)
  • Zuzu (1.8 miles)
  • Grace's Table (1.9 miles)
  • Downtown Joe's Brewery and Restaurant (1.9 miles)

Parks

  • Shurtleff Park (0.7 miles)
  • Fuller Park (1.9 miles)
  • Esther Deaver Park (2.3 miles)
  • Monticello Park (3.8 miles)
  • Alston Dog Park (4.8 miles)
  • Rancho Solano Park (9.7 miles)
  • Pinelli Park (9.8 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (1.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.2 miles)
  • Good Neighbor Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
  • Ultimately Pharmacy Online (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.5 miles)
  • Owens Healthcare (3.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.8 miles)

Physicians

  • Radiology Medical Group Of Napa (2.1 miles)
  • Walter Tom, MD (2.3 miles)
  • Jennifer Hately,Ash, MA, MFT (2.5 miles)
  • Napa Valley Pediatrics (2.6 miles)
  • Dr Dermody (3.4 miles)
  • Associated Kidney Specialists (3.5 miles)
  • Napa Nephrology Consultants (3.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Napa Community Seventh-day Adventist Church (2.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Dutch Bros Coffee (3.1 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (8 miles)
  • Valley Cafe (8.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (8.5 miles)
  • Bouchon Bakery Yo (10.2 miles)

Hospitals

  • Varro, Cynthia R. DDS (3.4 miles)
  • Queen of the Valley Medical Center (3.8 miles)
  • Outpatient Surgery & Procedure Center (3.8 miles)
  • Queen Of The Valley Center For Maternal & Infant Care (3.8 miles)
  • Sutter Health (8 miles)
  • NorthBay Healthcare Foundation (8.1 miles)
  • Holderman Hospital-Lab (9.8 miles)

Transportation

  • Napa Jet Center (4 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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