Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills in La Fayette, GA

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Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills

Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills in La Fayette, GA

Information last verified:

800 Patterson Road, La Fayette, GA 30728

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

3.3 from 111 reviews
5 stars
54
4 stars
7
3 stars
6
2 stars
2
1 stars
42

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Overall Review of Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills

Pros

  • pro The staff is described as awesome and genuinely caring for the residents.
  • pro Families say the staff is friendly, dedicated, and treats residents like family.
  • pro Therapists and nurses are highlighted as among the best, delivering excellent rehab and compassionate care.
  • pro The admissions team is committed to caring for the needs of each resident.
  • pro The facility is praised for its cleanliness, attentive care, and clear communication with families.
  • pro Families report that their loved ones are cared for with kindness and dignity.
  • pro The center is described as sweet, caring, and respectful to residents.
  • pro Reviewers say they would highly recommend the facility for rehabilitation or long-term care.
  • pro The overall atmosphere is portrayed as one where residents become part of a caring, family-like community.

Cons

  • pro The facility cuts corners and does barely what is required to care for residents.
  • pro The meals served to Medicaid and Medicare patients are hardly edible and always cold.
  • pro They have given conflicting information about what’s allowed, and some of it feels deceptive.
  • pro There is a lack of concern about nutrition for elderly patients; healthy, healing food is not provided.
  • pro The facility does not allow residents to have power chairs and did not inform them.
  • pro Privacy is nonexistent; residents are asked very private questions in public.
  • pro It is hard to get staff to keep doors or curtains closed during care.
  • pro Residents are left sitting in their own urine and feces for hours at a time.
  • pro Management is arrogant and focused on the bottom line rather than patient care; the place should be shut down.
  • pro There have been reports of dirty conditions, including expired milk and pee-covered sheets.

Review

PruittHealth Shepherd Hills in La Fayette, GA is best suited for seniors who want a small, homey atmosphere with a clearly visible emphasis on rehabilitation and a family-like culture. The community often earns praise for staff who genuinely seem to care, for therapists who deliver hands-on progress, and for admissions teams that guide families smoothly through transitions. It works well for residents who respond positively to warmth, personal attention, and a sense that staff know residents by name and treat them with dignity. For families prioritizing visible emotional support, social connectedness, and steady access to PT and OT, this facility can feel like a good fit. Those whose top priority is flawless daily operation, perfect consistency, spotless hygiene at all times, and zero incidents, may want to consider alternatives, since several reviews flag real concerns about staffing, cleanliness, and administrative priorities.

The most compelling positives center on the caregiving staff and the rehabilitation program. Reviewers consistently describe the nurses, CNAs, and therapists as caring, capable, and motivated, with several pointing to the wound care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy as standout strengths. Families report the admissions process as empathetic and thorough, with staff who help families settle in and coordinate care plans. The atmosphere, when staff are at their best, feels like a tight-knit team that treats residents like family, and that sense of connection matters, particularly for individuals needing ongoing rehab or long-term support. Cleanliness is praised in many accounts, and when the care team is operating at full strength, the facility can deliver on both medical and psychosocial needs, providing meals, activities, and a rhythm that supports recovery and well-being.

However, the counterweight in many reviews is a hard reality about staffing and its consequences. Understaffing is repeatedly cited as a root cause for delayed responses to call bells, limited one-on-one attention, and difficulty in meeting basic daily needs. Several families report days or moments when assistance was not immediately available, and some care tasks, baths, hygiene, and routine changes, were described as minimal or inconsistently performed. The result is a valuation of good intentions and capability when a sufficient number of caregivers are present, but a clear risk when the workload is too heavy for the budgeted staff. Privacy and dignity can suffer as well, with accounts of private conversations overheard or access to private spaces not consistently respected, and there are outlier reports of medication and documentation gaps that terrify families who fear mistakes.

The strongest offset to these drawbacks lies in the potential for high-quality rehab and exceptionally caring individuals to drive meaningful progress. When therapists and nurses are available, residents often experience genuine improvements in strength, mobility, and mood, and families repeatedly highlight the teamwork and transparent communication around care plans. The culture of care, reinforced by strong leadership and a rock-solid DON in positive reviews, can sustain momentum even under pressure. Yet the positive impact depends heavily on staffing levels and administrative focus staying aligned with resident needs, two factors repeatedly questioned by critics who describe budget-driven prioritization over frontline care. In other words, the facility can deliver remarkable outcomes in the right moment, but consistency and reliability remain tethered to how well the operation manages staffing and accountability.

For families weighing a placement, practical diligence should shape the decision, not sentiment alone. Prospective residents should insist on current staffing patterns, night shift counts, CNA availability, and how often aides can assist with activities of daily living. Request a direct, written care plan that assigns responsibilities and a clear escalation path for urgent needs. Tour multiple times and speak specifically with the wound care and therapy teams to understand typical schedules and expected outcomes. Ask for recent dining options and a sample menu to assess nutrition, since several reviews raise concerns about meal quality and dietary attention, even as some praise the kitchen’s performance. Finally, insist on meeting with administration, ideally the DON or administrator, to gauge responsiveness to concerns and to observe whether privacy, medication management, and charting practices appear orderly in real-time.

The verdict comes down to risk tolerance and care expectations. Shepherd Hills can be a compelling option for families seeking a warm, supportive environment with robust rehab services and staff who genuinely care. When the facility operates with adequate staffing and strong leadership, resident outcomes can be excellent, and the community feels like an extended family that rallies around individual needs. But the darker notes in the reviews, persistent understaffing, delays in care, hygiene lapses, and serious allegations about neglect or mismanagement, cannot be dismissed. For anyone who requires near-perfect daily reliability, strict hygiene, and unwavering privacy protections, alternatives should be explored. A measured approach, visits, conversations with frontline staff, scrutinizing care plans, and clear expectations about staffing, will determine whether Shepherd Hills aligns with a family’s goals or whether another option would better safeguard daily comfort and safety.

Features

Housing

  • 112 resident community capacity 112 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

  • Lovell (24 miles away) Lovell (24 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

Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills in La Fayette, GA is an assisted living community that offers a comfortable and caring environment for seniors. With a range of amenities and care services, residents can enjoy their independence while receiving the assistance they need.

The community features a beauty salon, allowing residents to pamper themselves and maintain their personal grooming needs. Cable or satellite TV is available in each room for entertainment, and community-operated transportation is provided for convenience. A computer center with Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access allows residents to stay connected with loved ones and engage in online activities.

Dining at Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills is a delightful experience. The dining room offers restaurant-style dining with specially prepared meals to cater to different dietary restrictions. Additionally, a small library provides a cozy space for reading and relaxation.

Residents can partake in various activities designed to promote physical and mental wellness. The fitness room offers exercise programs to help residents stay active, while scheduled daily activities keep them engaged and entertained. Planned day trips allow residents to explore new places, and resident-run activities encourage social connections within the community.

Care services at Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills are comprehensive and tailored to individual needs. A 24-hour call system ensures that assistance is always readily available, while 24-hour supervision provides an added sense of security for residents. Trained staff members are on hand to assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is also provided to ensure proper medication administration.

The community's convenient location near cafes, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, and places of worship adds to the overall convenience for both residents and their families.

At Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills, seniors can expect personalized care, an array of amenities, engaging activities, and a welcoming environment that promotes independence and wellbeing.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Children's Doctors PC (0.4 miles)
  • Walker County Environmental Health (0.9 miles)
  • Bowers Family Medicine (1 miles)
  • North Georgia Vision Center (9.1 miles)
  • DR Miniyars Pediatrics PC (11.8 miles)
  • Chickamauga Family Practice (12.5 miles)
  • Mill Creek Center PC (13 miles)

Cafes

  • Melinda's Bakery & Cafe (1 miles)
  • Caffiene Addicts (10.7 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Lafayette Presbyterian Church (1 miles)
  • Second Baptist Church of Lafayette (1.3 miles)
  • Mission Bridge Church (1.6 miles)
  • Gideons International (1.9 miles)
  • Southern Baptist Convention (2.2 miles)
  • Highland Presbyterian Church (2.3 miles)
  • New Bethel Christian Fellowship (2.3 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Fred's Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
  • MediThrift Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
  • Ledfords Rx Express (2.1 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (3.4 miles)
  • Trion Drugs - Ga (11.7 miles)
  • Cannon Drugs (12.9 miles)

Restaurants

  • Dari-Dip (1.1 miles)
  • Wen Choo Choo (1.2 miles)
  • McDonald's (2 miles)
  • Los Guerrero's Mexican Restaurant (2 miles)
  • Arby's (2 miles)
  • Madi's On Main St (2.3 miles)
  • El Trio (2.9 miles)

Transportation

  • U-Haul (1.8 miles)
  • Norfolk Southern (2.5 miles)
  • Sandy's Taxidermy (10 miles)

Parks

  • Rock Town at Pigeon Mountain (5.5 miles)
  • Trion Track Field (11.6 miles)
  • Crawfish Spring (11.8 miles)
  • Cherokee Falls (15.5 miles)
  • Dowdy Park (15.8 miles)

Hospitals

  • Chattooga County E911 (14.7 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Pruitthealth - Shepherd Hills?

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