Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home

Pros

• The Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home is exceptionally clean and well-maintained, creating a pleasant environment for residents.
• Visitors to the facility are welcomed by a fresh atmosphere that does not resemble a typical hospital or care facility.
• The nurses and certified nurse assistants (CNAs) are compassionate and treat residents with great respect and kindness.
• Residents, including the reviewer’s father, receive excellent overall care.
• Any issues raised by family members are addressed promptly and effectively by the staff.
• The new administrator of the facility demonstrates outstanding competence in management while also showing genuine care for both staff and residents.
• The nursing home benefits greatly from having such an effective leader at the helm.

Cons

• There are occasional issues that arise regarding the care of residents as their physical and mental health status changes.
• Some concerns have needed to be brought to the attention of the nurses, counselors, or administrators.
• While overall care is good, there may still be unresolved issues that residents' families have to continuously manage.

Review

The Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home in Hilo, Hawaii, has garnered high praise from the family of a resident who has lived there for nearly three years. This facility stands out in the realm of nursing homes and care facilities, offering an exceptionally clean and well-kept environment that prioritizes the comfort and dignity of its residents. The reviewer notes that upon entering the building, there’s a noticeable absence of common hospital odors typically associated with such institutions. This cleanliness speaks volumes about the dedication and ongoing efforts of those who maintain the facility, making it a welcoming space for both residents and their families.

One of the most commendable aspects of the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home is its staff, which includes nurses and certified nurse assistants (CNAs). The family member expresses gratitude for their respectful and caring approach toward their father. It’s evident that these healthcare professionals are not only qualified but also genuinely compassionate individuals committed to providing quality care. Each interaction reflects a level of respect that enhances the overall experience for both residents and their families. The positive relationships built between staff and residents play a critical role in creating a nurturing atmosphere within this nursing home.

While no nursing home is without occasional challenges, this family member acknowledges that they have encountered issues typical of long-term care settings—particularly as their father's physical and mental health needs evolve over time. However, what sets Yukio Okutsu apart is its responsive management and staff who actively address these concerns. Each problem raised by the family has been met with attention; either resolution has already been achieved or steps are being taken toward addressing them. This proactive approach to communication demonstrates a commitment to high standards of care that reassures families during difficult times.

Recent changes in leadership have brought additional positivity to the facility's environment. The new administrator—who is described as "amazing"—has impressed both residents and their families with her ability to blend excellent competence with genuine concern for all members within the community. A strong leader can make a significant difference in any organization, but in a nursing home setting where compassion is crucial, her ability to balance managerial responsibilities while fostering an empathetic atmosphere cannot be overstated.

The administrator's influence goes beyond just administrative oversight; she embodies an understanding attitude towards both staff welfare and resident care. Such qualities promote not only operational efficiency but also motivate staff members to deliver better service through morale-boosting leadership practices. It appears this leadership style has cultivated an environment where both employees feel valued—and consequently perform at their best—and residents enjoy enhanced quality care.

In conclusion, Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home stands out as an exemplary model among nursing homes due primarily to its dedicated staff, immaculate living conditions, effective management practices overseen by its new administrator, and commitment to addressing resident concerns promptly. Families can feel assured knowing their loved ones are receiving attentive care in such a well-managed environment—a factor that significantly impacts quality of life for elderly residents like the reviewer’s father. The facility’s continuous efforts reflect not just on maintaining standards but also on nurturing dignity during one’s golden years.

Hospitals

• Hilo Medical Center (0.1 miles)

Physicians

• Okamura, Charles East Hawaii Health Clinic (0.1 miles)
• East Hawaii Health Clinic - Primary Care (0.1 miles)
• East Hawaii Health - Cancer Center (0.1 miles)
• East Hawaii Health - Otolaryngology (ENT) (0.1 miles)
• Hawaii Pacific Oncology Center (0.1 miles)
• ATM at Kaiser Hilo (0.2 miles)
• Hra Womens Imaging Cen (0.9 miles)

Parks

• Rainbow Falls Park (0.2 miles)
• Wailuku River State Park (0.3 miles)
• Pe‘epe‘e Boiling Pots (1.3 miles)
• Mo’oheau Park (1.7 miles)
• University Heights Park (1.9 miles)
• Isles Beach Park (2.7 miles)
• Lili‘uokalani Park And Gardens (2.8 miles)

Places of Worship

• Kaumana Drive Baptist Church (0.7 miles)
• Southern Baptist Convention (2.2 miles)
• Crossnet Ministries (2.3 miles)
• New Hope Christian Fellowship (3.4 miles)

Restaurants

• Pete's Belly Bustazs (0.9 miles)
• Kozmic Cones (1.4 miles)
• Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill Hilo (1.6 miles)
• The Temple Bar (1.6 miles)
• McDonald's (1.6 miles)
• L & L Drive Inn (1.6 miles)
• Hilo Town Tavern (1.7 miles)

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (1 miles)
• Kta Super Stores (1.7 miles)
• Pharmerica (1.8 miles)
• Shiigi Drug Co. (1.9 miles)
• Longs Drugs (2 miles)
• Kta Super Stores (3.4 miles)
• KTA Puainako Pharmacy (3.4 miles)

Transportation

• AA Marshall's Taxi (1.5 miles)
• U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (3 miles)
• Aiona U-Rent Car (3.3 miles)
• U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (3.4 miles)

Cafes

• Nector Cafe (1.7 miles)
• Starbucks (1.9 miles)
• Just Cruisin Coffee (2.2 miles)
• Big Island Pearl Tea (2.8 miles)
• Popover (3.1 miles)
• VIBE Cafe & Health Bar (3.2 miles)
• Starbucks (3.5 miles)

Theaters

• Regal Prince Kuhio (3.5 miles)