Cherokee Specialty Care

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Cherokee Specialty Care

1011 North Roosevelt, Cherokee, IA 51012

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

4.3 from 12 reviews
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    Overall Review of Cherokee Specialty Care

    Pros

    • pro The facility pays for employees' training and CNA licenses.
    • pro The facility is described as the best in town for resident care and healthcare employment.
    • pro Residents are the organization's passion.
    • pro Cherokee Specialty Care has a great activity department.
    • pro The outdoor garden is a perfect setting for resident events.
    • pro The staff are very caring, and their attitudes are evident in patient care.

    Cons

    • pro The facility was understaffed, resulting in neglected resident care and unaddressed health issues.
    • pro Call lights were not answered, leading to dehydration, malnutrition, and a urinary tract infection for the resident.
    • pro Family members were not notified when a loved one became ill, and personal hygiene and room conditions were poorly maintained.
    • pro A loved one was found barely conscious, lying in feces with a high fever, which was deemed unacceptable and not promptly addressed.
    • pro The quarantine process was mishandled, with delays in communication and disruption of care during quarantine.
    • pro Dietary orders from the physician for renal failure were ignored, with salt and brined foods served contrary to recommendations.
    • pro Infection control practices were lax, evidenced by open hall doors and failure to consistently wear masks.
    • pro The resident was billed about $12,600 for a two?month stay during quarantine, and a minimum monthly payment policy led to a lawsuit.
    • pro Medication timing, especially anticonvulsants, was not consistently followed, risking seizures.
    • pro A sense of indifference to discharge and resident safety was reported by families.

    Review

    Cherokee Specialty Care presents itself as a place with a deep commitment to residents and a mission to provide exemplary care, as reflected by a staff that emphasizes their passion for those in their charge. One account notes a six-month stay during which the facility funded the individual's training and CNA license, underscoring a belief that the organization is the best in town for resident care and healthcare employment. The message is that the residents' welfare is central, with the cultural motto "Our residents are our passion" frequently echoed. The facility is described as having a strong activity department and an outdoor garden that serves as a favorite venue for events, painting a picture of a lively, resident-centered environment. The staff are portrayed as genuinely caring, with a palpable caring attitude that supposedly shines through in the level of care provided to patients, leading the author to declare the team "the best."

    Yet, alongside these affirmations of strength and warmth, there are grave concerns raised by the same voice. The narrator recounts a troubling sequence of medical difficulties that unfolded during the stay. Within days of arriving, the individual fell four times in three days, an episode that culminated in placement under quarantine. The experience of being told, only after some delay, that they were quarantined for a neural flu is described as bewildering and distressing, especially since it took three weeks to communicate this diagnosis. The complaint points to broader issues of how information is conveyed and how quickly serious conditions are identified and explained to patients and families.

    Compounding the medical and communicational confusion were dietary misalignments with medical advice. The reviewer asked their doctor to ensure a renal-friendly diet (no salt, no tomato, no cheese, etc.), but the physician reportedly told the facility that diets for his patients would not be implemented there. As a result, the no-salt diet that was intended for renal protection was bypassed. The account continues with a troubling culinary irony: ham described as naturally brined, and even though attempts were made to remove salt by removing the chicken coating, the chicken itself was brined, undermining the dietary restrictions meant to protect kidney function. The experience is presented as emblematic of a broader pattern where seemingly basic medical and nutritional needs were not consistently respected.

    In addition to medical and dietary concerns, the narrative raises questions about infection control and day-to-day patient management. The account mentions doors being kept open and staff moving in and out without masks, a practice alleged to have occurred even before the COVID-19 era, with the author questioning how germs could be kept at bay in such conditions. The quarantine experience also intersected with financial strain: the patient was billed more than $12,600 for roughly two months and three days of care, much of which overlapped with a period when they could not leave due to quarantine. The patient notes that the timing of those charges was painful and burdensome, especially given that the quarantine period extended beyond what they could reasonably afford, with living expenses like rent and groceries already pressing. Attempts to negotiate payments were met with a policy requiring a minimum of $100 per month, and the situation ultimately escalated into legal action for debts the individual felt unable to repay.

    Health management and medication timing emerged as another critical concern. The narrator, who identifies as epileptic, emphasizes that anticonvulsant medications must be taken punctually to prevent seizures, a detail that would clearly compound the challenges of a disorienting quarantine and hospital environment. The experience is described as cold and isolating, with the quarantine only lifting in February, at which point the speaker felt uncared for - "they could care less if I went" - and recalls a difficult moment involving a short-tempered driver who assisted in getting them home. The journey from late December to late February feels marked by a sense of abandonment and logistical strain, hovering over a period of significant physical vulnerability and limited autonomy.

    The second major strand of the account concerns the care of a loved one at The Villa (Cherokee's related setting). This portion of the narrative depicts persistent neglect: call lights allegedly went unanswered, delaying bathroom access and contributing to urinary tract infections, dehydration, and malnutrition. The residents were described as understaffed, with care quality purportedly sacrificed due to inadequate staffing levels. Family members reported that staff did not contact them when their loved one was ill and failed to address medical needs promptly. The most alarming moment described is the family's discovery of their loved one barely conscious, lying in feces, with a high fever, and without timely communication from the staff. The family characterizes the conditions as unacceptable and emphasizes that the experience was not intended to bash the facility but to inform others so that similar situations might be prevented.

    Taken together, these narratives present a complex portrait of Cherokee Specialty Care and its related Villa. On the one hand, there are clear positives: a culture of genuine care for residents, a robust activity program, and an environment that many perceive as warm and welcoming. On the other hand, there are serious, well-documented concerns about medical communication, dietary adherence, infection control practices, financial practices during crises, and the safety and well-being of patients under observation or in quarantine. The accounts stress a need for stronger oversight, more consistent adherence to medical and dietary recommendations, better communication with families, and improved staffing to ensure timely responses to call lights and basic hygiene and safety. The author's intent is to inform others, not to condemn outright, and to highlight the contrast between the facility's strengths and the profound gaps that affected their own and their loved one's care. The overarching message is a call for heightened vigilance and accountability so that positive, compassionate care can be sustained without compromising safety, dignity, or financial stability.

    Features

    Housing

    • 62 resident community capacity 62 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

    • 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

    Cherokee Specialty Care in Cherokee, IA is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to cater to the needs of its residents. The community features a beauty salon, where residents can indulge in some pampering and grooming. They also have access to cable or satellite TV, allowing them to stay entertained and connected.

    For transportation needs, the community offers community-operated transportation as well as transportation arrangements for non-medical purposes and doctors' appointments. This ensures that residents can easily get around and attend their appointments without any hassle.

    Cherokee Specialty Care also provides various spaces and facilities to enhance the well-being of its residents. These include a computer center for those who want to stay digitally connected, a fitness room for exercise enthusiasts, a gaming room for leisure activities, and an outdoor space with gardens for relaxation and enjoyment. There is also a small library available for those who love reading.

    Residents at Cherokee Specialty Care can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the professional culinary team in the dining room, which offers restaurant-style dining. The community is sensitive to special dietary restrictions and offers specialized diets such as diabetes diets upon request.

    Care services provided include assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The 24-hour call system ensures that help is always available when needed. Medication management is also offered to ensure residents are taking their medications properly.

    The community prioritizes mental wellness through its mental wellness program and offers support for individuals with special dietary restrictions. Housekeeping services are provided to maintain a clean living environment.

    Residents can participate in various activities organized by the community, including fitness programs, planned day trips, resident-run activities, and scheduled daily activities. Additionally, concierge services are available to assist residents with any requests or inquiries they may have.

    Located in Cherokee, IA, the community enjoys proximity to various amenities including cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals. This provides convenience and accessibility to residents and their families.

    With its array of amenities, care services, and convenient location, Cherokee Specialty Care offers a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors seeking assisted living services in Cherokee, IA.

    Videos

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Hospitals

    • Bierman Joan M Cherokee Regional Clinics Cherokee (0.2 miles)
    • Sioux Valley Memorial Hospital (0.2 miles)
    • Cherokee Regional Wellness Center (0.3 miles)
    • Careage Hills (0.6 miles)
    • Family Vision Clinic (0.6 miles)
    • Cherokee Mental Health Institute (1.4 miles)
    • Paullina Chiropractic (16.6 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Taco John's (0.3 miles)
    • Wing Street (0.3 miles)
    • Pizza Hut (0.3 miles)
    • Family Table Restaurant (0.4 miles)
    • Monterrey Mexican Restaurant (0.5 miles)
    • McDonald's (0.5 miles)
    • D.p.s. (0.5 miles)

    Parks

    • Sam Doupe Ball Complex (0.3 miles)
    • Larson Lake County Park (8.2 miles)
    • Indian Village State Park (16.1 miles)
    • Mill Creek State Park (16.5 miles)
    • Little Storm Lake Game Management Area (17.5 miles)
    • Frank Starr Park (17.9 miles)

    Physicians

    • Cherokee Hearing Aid Service (0.4 miles)
    • Cherokee Family Practice (0.9 miles)
    • Iowa Department of Human Services (1.4 miles)
    • Mill Creek Family Practice (16.7 miles)
    • Trimark Physicians Group (18 miles)
    • Northwest Iowa Urologists PC (18.3 miles)
    • Trimark Physicians Group (18.4 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Grace Baptist Church Pastor's Res (0.4 miles)
    • First Baptist Church (0.9 miles)
    • Memorial Presbyterian Church (0.9 miles)
    • Presbyterian Church (0.9 miles)
    • Mt Olive Baptist Church (1 miles)
    • Catholic Communities Of Cherokee County (1 miles)
    • Immaculate Conception Church (1 miles)

    Transportation

    • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (0.4 miles)
    • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (0.4 miles)
    • Lauck Aviation (2 miles)

    Theaters

    • American 3 (0.9 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • Cherokee Main Street Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
    • Thrifty White Pharmacy (16.7 miles)
    • Holstein Community Pharmacy (18.9 miles)

    Cafes

    • The Main Street Bakery And Cafe Cherokee (1 miles)
    • Copper Cup (1 miles)
    • Buffalo Ridge Cafe (13.7 miles)
    • The Hoodlebug (13.7 miles)

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