Santa Maria Care Center in Santa Maria, CA

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  • Interior

    A well-decorated hallway featuring a reception area with decorative furniture and plants.
  • Decor

    A cozy kitchen corner featuring floral artwork, a water dispenser, and decorative flowers.
  • Building

    A picturesque view of an autumn scene featuring colorful trees and a serene building under a beautiful sky.
  • Bedroom

    A serene hospital patient room featuring a neatly made bed, soft bedding, and large windows allowing natural light to fill the space.
  • Trees

    A peaceful suburban home surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.
  • Landscaping

    A welcoming entrance to a modern home, surrounded by greenery.
  • Garden

    A serene outdoor garden space bathed in sunlight, highlighting a tranquil pathway surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Outdoor

    A serene outdoor patio area featuring red umbrellas and comfortable seating, perfect for relaxation.
  • Tree

    A spacious community center decorated for the holiday season, featuring tables with red covers and a Christmas tree.
  • Exercise Equipment

    A well-equipped rehabilitation therapy room featuring exercise equipment and a bright, inviting atmosphere.

Santa Maria Care Center in Santa Maria, CA

Information last verified:

820 West Cook Street, Santa Maria, CA 93458

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

4.3 from 34 reviews
5 stars
24
4 stars
5
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 stars
4

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Overall Review of Santa Maria Care Center

Pros

  • pro The SMPA staff from admitting through food service provide outstanding hands-on care to every patient.
  • pro The team at SMPA is kind, friendly, and attentive to both residents and visitors.
  • pro Antonette and colleagues deliver trusting, caring, professional patient services.
  • pro Santa Maria Post Acute has a warm, homelike atmosphere and staff who clearly care for residents as family.
  • pro The facility is clean, pleasant, and well maintained, with professional and helpful staff.
  • pro Brian is a breath of fresh air in the local medical field, dedicated to improving quality care.
  • pro Residents are treated like family, with trustworthy staff who quickly solve problems.
  • pro Santa Maria Post Acute Center is regarded as one of the best nursing facilities, with loving and kind administration, nurses, CNAs, event coordinators, and kitchen staff.
  • pro Sam (activities director) and Denny (social services director) are highly praised for their compassion and support.

Cons

  • pro They described the facility as disgusting and negligent, noting that the bathrooms aren’t handicap accessible.
  • pro They warned others not to send their family here, claiming the night nurses were evil and recounting a grandmother’s injury and death attributed to the night shift.
  • pro They would never recommend this facility, saying it doesn’t take care of its patients and that a family member ended up in worse condition due to negligence.
  • pro They noted very racist patients and that a grandfather was threatened, describing the service as horrible.
  • pro They felt staff were glued to computers and that patients lacked enough human touch and conversation.

Review

This community is best suited for families seeking skilled nursing and rehab care delivered in a long-standing, home‑like environment where staff engagement and daily personal attention are prioritized. It suits residents who respond well to a warm, family‑style atmosphere, consistent front‑line caregivers, and active family participation in care planning. For families focused on strong rehabilitation support, including physical therapy and speech therapy, and who value transparent, frequent updates from a responsive team, this center stands out. The facility’s decades‑long presence in Santa Maria is not just a badge; it translates into stable staff familiarity, established routines, and a culture that many families describe as comforting and dependable.

Those who may want to consider alternatives include families prioritizing top‑tier accessibility and modern infrastructure, or those needing highly specialized memory‑care or very strict safety protocols. A few reviews raise concerns about specific safety features (for example, bathrooms without full handicap accessibility) and about night‑shift dynamics. If critical tasks are ensuring every access point is fully accessible, or if experiences with night staff oversight have mattered to the decision, it may be wise to compare options with newer buildings, more uniform 24/7 staffing patterns, or dedicated memory‑care units. Additionally, families seeking a more clinical, less “homelike” environment should factor in which setting aligns with their loved one’s temperament and care goals.

On the upside, the facility’s core strengths are consistently reinforced by a hands‑on, service‑oriented team. The staff is frequently described as kind, attentive, and genuinely present with residents, and leadership is highlighted for availability and proactive problem‑solving. Families point to the admissions process as thorough, the nursing, physical therapy, and speech therapy teams as cohesive and capable, and the activity director’s programming as a meaningful daily touchpoint for residents. Cleanliness and a homelike atmosphere, often likened to the comforting feel of “home”, complement a care model that emphasizes relationship‑driven support. This is a setting where nurses and aides often know families by name and are accessible for updates during visits or meetings.

Nevertheless, the reviews do reveal some notable caveats. The most common cautions center on occasional perceived gaps in night‑shift oversight, with a few accounts suggesting limited human contact when staff focus on computer documentation. Accessibility concerns also recur, with specific praise tempered by reports that some bathrooms are not fully handicap accessible. A small number of comments describe troubling interpersonal dynamics or experiences during nighttime hours, underscoring the need for prospective families to observe shifts across the day and to verify current staffing patterns. Renovations and ongoing improvements in the facility are mentioned as both evidence of investment and potential temporary turbulence, depending on timing.

Those pros ultimately offset the main cons when the goal is sustained, compassionate care rooted in strong relationships and clear communication. The facility’s long tenure in the community translates into stable teams and a culture of continuity that many families value highly. The combination of hands‑on nursing, robust rehab services, regular family care meetings, and dedicated staff like the activities director and social services team creates a dependable support network for residents and their loved ones. Even when tensions surface in certain reviews, the prevailing narrative centers on residents feeling cared for, safe, and frequently celebrated by staff who treat them as part of a family rather than a number.

For families weighing a decision, the practical conclusion is clear. Santa Maria Post Acute Center excels for those who want a warm, person‑centered nursing home with strong staff relationships, accessible rehab services, and an emphasis on family involvement. It represents a thoughtful, well‑established option for long‑term care or extended rehab where the care team’s heart is evident in daily interactions. However, if full accessibility at all points, a very tight focus on night‑shift safety, or a dedicated memory‑care environment is non‑negotiable, it makes sense to review alternatives with newer facilities or units expressly designed for those needs. Prospective families should visit, observe multiple shifts, meet administration, inspect accessibility features, and ask about current renovation plans and staff ratios to ensure alignment with care priorities.

Features

Housing

  • 55 resident community capacity 55 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

  • Santa Maria Pub Capt G Allan Hancock (4 miles away) Santa Maria Pub Capt G Allan Hancock (4 miles away)
  • San Luis Obispo Co-McChesney (23 miles away) San Luis Obispo Co-McChesney (23 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

Santa Maria Care Center in Santa Maria, CA is a vibrant and well-equipped assisted living community. Our residents enjoy a wide variety of amenities to ensure they have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

For those who like to look their best, we offer a beauty salon where residents can get pampered and feel their best. Our community operated transportation is available for trips and outings, ensuring that residents can easily explore the local area. Our computer center provides access to technology for staying connected with loved ones or pursuing personal interests.

Meals are an important part of our community, and our dining room offers restaurant-style dining with delicious meals prepared by our skilled staff. Residents can also enjoy outdoor space in our beautiful garden or make use of our fitness room to stay active and healthy.

We understand that each resident may have individual needs, which is why we offer private bathrooms, housekeeping services, and move-in coordination to help make the transition as smooth as possible. For those who prefer a quieter setting, we have a small library where residents can relax with a good book.

In terms of care services, we have 24-hour call system and supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents at all times. Our trained staff provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also offer medication management to ensure that medications are taken properly.

Mental wellness is important to us, which is why we have a mental wellness program in place. We also accommodate special dietary restrictions such as diabetes diets or other specific needs.

Our community is conveniently located near cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals for easy access to additional amenities and healthcare services.

At Santa Maria Care Center, we strive to create an enriching environment where residents can live comfortably while receiving the care they need.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • Tom's Take Out (0.3 miles)
  • 805 Tacos (0.4 miles)
  • Mikado Japanese Restaurant (0.5 miles)
  • Maya Mexican Restaurant (0.5 miles)
  • El Palenque Mexican Restaurant (0.6 miles)
  • The Garden Mediterranean (0.6 miles)
  • North China Restaurant (0.6 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (0.5 miles)
  • La Joya Pharmacy (0.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (0.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.2 miles)
  • J & D Health Systems (1.2 miles)
  • Pain Management Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Edwards Santa Maria & RPX (0.6 miles)
  • Regal Edwards Santa Maria (1.8 miles)

Physicians

  • Santa Maria Family Optometry, provider of Eyexam of CA (0.7 miles)
  • Transitions Mental Health (0.8 miles)
  • Center For Pain Management (0.9 miles)
  • DermaSpaMED (0.9 miles)
  • Santa Maria Gastroenterology (1.1 miles)
  • Igor Galan Galan MD (1.2 miles)
  • Plaza Diagnostic Imaging (1.2 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Mary Of The Assumption (0.9 miles)
  • General Conference Of Seventh-Day Adventists (1.5 miles)

Transportation

  • Transit Center (0.9 miles)

Parks

  • Oakley Park (1.2 miles)

Cafes

  • Starry Sky Coffee Company (1.4 miles)
  • Dutch Bros Coffee (1.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Marian Medical Center (1.8 miles)
  • SM Veterans Clinic (2.1 miles)

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