Central Gardens

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  • Interior

    A modern, minimalist living room with sleek furniture and plant decor.

  • Decor

    A modern dining area with elegantly set tables and large windows providing natural light.

  • Building

    A building entrance with blue doors, surrounded by greenery and a plant pot.

  • Windows

    A modern exercise room featuring minimalist decor, large windows for natural light, and inspirational quotes on the wall.

  • Landscaping

    A sunny patio area featuring a red umbrella, outdoor furniture, and a palm tree beside a house.

  • Bathroom

    A modern and minimalist bathroom with a walk-in shower, safety bar, and decorative plants.

  • Exercise Equipment

    A bright and spacious home gym with various exercise equipment arranged neatly.

  • Healthcare

    A modern hospital room with two patient beds and comfortable amenities.

Central Gardens

1355 Ellis Street, San Francisco, CA 94115

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

4.4 from 92 reviews
5 stars
75
4 stars
3
3 stars
2
2 stars
1
1 stars
11

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Central Gardens

Pros

  • pro Nora provided attentive, compassionate, and dedicated care for patients at Central Gardens.
  • pro Nora's communication was outstanding, keeping families informed and answering questions with patience.
  • pro The physical therapy team at Central Gardens was fantastic and helped patients regain mobility and achieve goals.
  • pro Joanna ensured dietary needs and allergies were accommodated with careful meal planning.
  • pro Nora Im, the social worker, was extremely helpful and informative, and the facility was clean and friendly with attentive staff.
  • pro The discharge process guided by Nora was thorough and helped families navigate next steps.

Cons

  • pro The facility is described as a "People Factory" that treats patients like monetary assets with little real effort toward rehabilitation or compassion.
  • pro Call lights reportedly have 40-60 minute waits unless the patient happens to work there.
  • pro Ongoing staffing shortages and double shifts lead to rushed care and negative attitudes toward turning or cleaning patients.
  • pro Patients are frequently yelled at or spoken to rudely, unless a family member is present.
  • pro Incontinence care is mishandled, with patients left in soiled diapers because staff are too rushed to change them.
  • pro Medication errors occur and lab results are not consistently communicated, with little follow-through on care.
  • pro Complaints trigger hostile reactions from staff, including disgusted looks and rude comments.
  • pro The facility is described as dirty, with roaches reported, and staff attire judged as unprofessional (flip-flops and casual clothing).
  • pro Management is characterized as messy and uncaring, with inconsistent wound care and slow responses to alarms.

Review

Central Gardens / Central Garden presents itself in these accounts as a place of contrasts - a facility that can deliver meaningful rehabilitation and compassionate support in some hands, while in other reports it falls short in essential areas of safety, cleanliness, and day-to-day patient care. Families speak with admiration about certain staff members and the rehab program, even as they describe experiences that feel mismatched with the expectations of a modern post-acute setting. Taken together, the voices outline a landscape where strengths and serious gaps sit side by side, making the overall picture highly dependent on which team members are on duty and how the facility is managed on any given day.

On the positive side, several reviewers highlight exceptional dedication from specific staff, especially those who work closely with patients during recovery. Nora Im, described repeatedly as a care advocate, social worker, and trusted liaison, stands out as a beacon in a sometimes murky care environment. Reviewers praise Nora for outstanding communication - keeping families informed, answering questions with patience, and going "above and beyond" to ensure patients' needs are understood and met. They recount her guidance during challenging times and her role in making complex discharge processes clearer, which can be a lifeline for families navigating post-acute care. In addition to Nora, other staff members - nurses, physical therapists, and office personnel - are noted for their diligence when they are focused on the patient's needs. One reviewer explicitly calls out the physical therapy team as a strong point within the facility's post-acute program, noting that a friend who arrived unable to walk eventually regained mobility with their help. There are also individual mentions of dietary accommodations and administrative responsiveness that helped a patient with specific allergies and preferences, underscoring that some staff members can deliver high-quality, person-centered care.

Yet the same threads of praise are often counterbalanced by stark warnings about the day-to-day realities within the building. Several reviewers stress that call lights can go unanswered for long stretches - reports range from 40 to 60 minutes - especially when family members aren't on site. They describe a workforce that is frequently stretched thin, with nurses and CNAs reportedly working double shifts. In these voices, patients can be left to wait for assistance with basic needs, and there is a consistent sense that the rhythm of care is dictated by staffing levels rather than by patient urgency. The emotional and physical burden of this reality is emphasized: patients described as being left in soiled diapers, rushed to the restroom in ways that feel more like throughput than compassionate care, and even subjected to the challenge of turning and repositioning in bed without adequate support. Some reviewers recount instances where staff voices or attitudes seemed less about empathy and more about efficiency, including occasions when patients were spoken to harshly or when caregivers appeared short or overwhelmed during routine tasks like changing soiled garments.

Safety and clinical follow-through emerge as a second major thread of concern. There are persistent claims that patients receive the wrong medications or that laboratory results are not communicated, replaced instead by new prescriptions without clear explanations. Reviewers recount a lack of consistent care in clinical decision-making, noting that there is little to no timely follow-up when new symptoms or concerns arise, and that a complaint can lead to tense interactions with staff rather than constructive resolution. The fear is not just about isolated incidents but about a pattern of care that can feel reactive rather than proactive. In one particularly troubling vignette, a patient with green phlegm reportedly did not receive antibiotics when needed, and another instance describes a staff member telling a choking patient that they were "not my patient today." Such anecdotes fuel a sense that accountability is uneven and that patients may slip through the cracks when documentation and communication aren't reliable.

The physical plant and environment of Central Gardens are described in similarly mixed terms. The building's infrastructure is repeatedly painted as dated and in need of serious upgrades: shared toilets in rooms, doors that don't lock properly, electrical outlets that seem barely up to the task, and aging furniture and fixtures. There are stories of roaches appearing in the environment - described by some as a "normal occurrence" - and concerns about cleanliness extend to both patient rooms and common areas. Reviewers note that hallway cleaning often seems to outpace patient room cleaning, and that basic elements like a visitor chair or a comfortable seating option for family members can be hard to come by during longer stays. The overall impression is of a facility that has good bones and the potential for quality care, but one that is strained by infrastructure and housekeeping challenges that undermine patient comfort and confidence.

A number of reviewers frame these experiences in terms of management and organizational culture. They describe management as "messy" and criticized for making decisions slowly or inconsistently, especially when patient care is at stake. There are pointed comments about a culture that apparently prioritizes financial considerations, with phrases like "Medicaid money flows" surfacing in the context of criticism about whether care is truly patient-centered or primarily revenue-driven. While several individually dedicated staff members are acknowledged for their competence, the sense persists that systemic issues - staffing shortages, gaps in accountability, and inconsistent care protocols - diminish the overall quality of care.

In the end, the portrait of Central Gardens / Central Garden is one of dueling realities. On the one hand, there are compelling stories of compassionate advocates like Nora Im and effective rehabilitative progress that give real hope to families navigating the post-acute journey. On the other hand, there are numerous accounts of delays, perceived indifference, cleanliness issues, and structural shortcomings that can erode trust and comfort for patients and their loved ones. The most hopeful takeaway is that the facility can deliver meaningful rehabilitation and attentive support when the right staff members are present and when the system is operating smoothly. The most cautionary takeaway is that, without consistent staffing, strong leadership, and ongoing attention to cleanliness and patient safety, families may face long waits, fragmented communication, and inconsistent care during a vulnerable period. For families, the consistent thread is the value of advocacy, clear communication with trusted staff, and a careful weighing of the daily realities of care against the potential for recovery and support.

Features

Housing

  • 92 resident community capacity 92 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

  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • 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.
  • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
  • 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.
  • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
  • 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.
  • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • 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.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • 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.
  • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
  • 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.

Transportation

  • San Francisco International (12 miles away) San Francisco International (12 miles away)
  • Metropolitan Oakland International (12 miles away) Metropolitan Oakland International (12 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
  • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.

Care Services

  • 12-16 hour nursing 12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
  • 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.
  • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • 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

Central Gardens is an assisted living community located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. Our community offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure our residents' comfort, convenience, and well-being.

Residents at Central Gardens can enjoy the convenience of having a beauty salon on-site, where they can get pampered and feel their best. Our spacious apartments are fully furnished and equipped with cable or satellite TV, ensuring that residents have access to their favorite shows and entertainment. We also provide housekeeping services to maintain a clean and tidy living environment.

Our community-operated transportation service makes it easy for residents to get around the city. Whether it is for shopping trips or social outings, residents can rely on our transportation arrangements. We also offer transportation to doctors' appointments, ensuring that residents can easily access the medical care they need.

For those who enjoy staying connected online, we provide Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access throughout the community. Residents can stay connected with loved ones or simply browse the internet at their convenience. In addition, we have a computer center where residents can use computers for various purposes.

At Central Gardens, we believe in promoting physical well-being. We have a fitness room where residents can engage in exercise programs tailored to their needs and abilities. Our wellness center also provides mental wellness programs to support emotional health.

Meals at Central Gardens are restaurant-style dining, offering delicious and nutritious options prepared by our experienced chefs. We accommodate special dietary restrictions and offer diabetes diets to ensure that all residents receive meals that meet their specific needs.

Our community offers a variety of activities to keep residents engaged and entertained. From concierge services to help plan day trips to resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities, there is always something exciting happening at Central Gardens.

Located in San Francisco, our community is surrounded by numerous cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, theaters, and other amenities. Residents have easy access to these establishments for leisurely outings or to meet their daily needs.

At Central Gardens, our dedicated staff provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living. We assist residents with bathing, dressing, transfers, and medication management. Our goal is to ensure that each resident receives the care and support they need while maintaining their independence.

Central Gardens is a vibrant and welcoming community where residents can enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about how we can cater to your loved one's specific needs and preferences in assisted living.

Nearby Places of Interest

Theaters

  • AMC Kabuki 8 (0.3 miles)
  • Alamo Square (0.6 miles)
  • AMC Metreon 16 (1.4 miles)
  • Alamo Drafthouse New Mission (1.9 miles)

Cafes

  • Jane The Bakery (0.3 miles)
  • The Mill (0.7 miles)
  • Blue Bottle Coffee (0.7 miles)
  • Cafe Réveille (0.8 miles)
  • Sightglass Coffee (0.9 miles)
  • Saint Frank (1.1 miles)
  • Four Barrel Coffee (1.2 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.4 miles)
  • Walgreens (0.4 miles)
  • Grass Roots (0.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (0.6 miles)
  • Kaiser Permanente Main Pharmacy (0.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (0.7 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (0.7 miles)

Restaurants

  • Salt & Straw (0.4 miles)
  • A Mano (0.5 miles)
  • House Of Prime Rib42 (0.8 miles)
  • SF Eagle (1.2 miles)
  • Hi Tops (1.2 miles)
  • Deli Board (1.2 miles)
  • Local Edition (1.4 miles)

Parks

  • Lafayette Park (0.6 miles)
  • Alta Plaza Park (0.7 miles)
  • Municipal Pier (0.8 miles)
  • Duboce Park (0.9 miles)
  • Allyne Park (1 miles)
  • Huntington Park (1.1 miles)
  • The Panhandle (1.2 miles)

Physicians

  • One Medical (0.7 miles)
  • Golden Gate OBGYN (2 miles)
  • Noe Valley Pediatrics (2.1 miles)

Transportation

  • San Francisco Caltrain Station (1.9 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Nearby Communities

Skilled Nursing Facility in Nearby Cities

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