Lantern Park Specialty Care

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Lantern Park Specialty Care

2200 Oakdale Road, Coralville, IA 52241

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

3.9 from 33 reviews
5 stars
22
4 stars
1
3 stars
1
2 stars
3
1 stars
6

Skilled Nursing Facility

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    Overall Review of Lantern Park Specialty Care

    Pros

    • pro This facility goes above and beyond for residents, families, and staff.
    • pro It is very clean and well maintained.
    • pro The staff are very caring and work well together.
    • pro The food is amazing and in good portions.
    • pro Lantern Park is clean, spacious, quiet, and the staff are friendly.
    • pro Therapists were wonderful and helpful in returning residents home.
    • pro The facility is wonderful and has some amazing staff.
    • pro The staff are friendly and kind.
    • pro There is awesome teamwork among all departments.
    • pro They celebrate when residents come out of isolation due to Covid.
    • pro What a beautiful facility; residents look happy.

    Cons

    • pro The quality of care has declined with staffing shortages, especially on weekends, leading to strong discouragement from recommending the facility.
    • pro Unlicensed staff are replacing nurses, performing nurse duties, and physician orders are not being completed.
    • pro Physician orders are not charted or executed for weeks due to lack of available nursing staff.
    • pro A resident was reportedly malnourished and dehydrated, with no access to water, and kept in a sweltering room.
    • pro Staff allegedly avoided confrontation and failed to inform the family about incidents or injuries promptly.
    • pro The facility has cleanliness and sanitation issues, including flies in the dining area and crowded, dirty shower rooms with bathrooms too small for walkers.
    • pro The night nurse-to-resident ratio was described as extreme, with only one nurse for nearly 80 residents.

    Review

    Lantern Park Specialty Care is a place that has inspired a wide spectrum of experiences and opinions. On one hand, there are heartfelt testimonials from families and even some staff who describe the facility as clean, well maintained, and staffed by people who genuinely care about residents. They paint a picture of a homey environment where therapy and rehabilitation can thrive, where a friendly team works together with residents' well-being in mind, and where families feel kept in the loop about medical conditions and med changes. Several reviewers highlight the therapy program in particular, praising physical therapy and occupational therapy for helping residents regain function, and many emphasize the importance of the staff's warmth, attentiveness, and collaborative spirit. For some, Lantern Park feels like a place that treats residents "as if they were their own family," and reviewers repeatedly commend the clean facilities, the sense of community, and the dedication of the therapists, nurses, and support staff.

    Yet alongside the praise, there are vivid and troubling accounts that cast a very different light on the same facility. The most unsettling themes center on neglect, inadequate communication, and staffing shortages that manifest in care delays and safety concerns. One family recounts a painful experience with their grandma, who was wheelchair-bound and suffered a stroke that had left her with dementia. In this account, bruising appeared on her arm and body, and it took hours before staff disclosed what happened. The family describes a pattern of delays in reporting injuries, a lack of timely call-backs, and a sense that basic needs - such as changing clothes, assistance with bathroom use, or monitoring for comfort - required constant prompting and were sometimes met with indifference. The grandchild notes that bruises looked old, with yellowing and purple/blue discoloration suggesting that harm had occurred some time before. There is also a troubling recollection of the room's odor, as well as a sense that the staff's response to concerns - such as the compression socks being too tight and leaving marks - was reactive rather than proactive. This account reflects a broader concern about daily care quality and communication with families, especially when a resident's health status is fragile.

    Other reviews amplify specific worries about staffing and accountability. Several commenters describe a strain on resources, particularly on weekends, with too few caregivers to meet residents' needs. There are accusations that unlicensed staff are performing tasks typically handled by licensed nurses, and that nurses' orders are not consistently completed or properly charted. Some reviewers claim that physicians' orders go unexecuted for weeks because there simply isn't a nurse available to implement them, and that unlicensed staff are documenting and monitoring behaviors, which raises questions about accuracy and safety. The sense of a rushed, understaffed environment is intensified by accounts of night shifts where the nurse-to-resident ratio can feel dangerously low, with one reviewer estimating as many as 80 residents under the care of a single nurse at night. These themes of staffing shortfalls and gaps in regulatory compliance recur across several testimonies, underscoring a pattern that some families find deeply troubling and unsafe.

    There are also strongly negative individual stories that offer a stark counterpoint to the more favorable reviews. One particularly harrowing account describes an elderly father who was admitted for rehabilitation after a fall and was found in a sweltering room, undernourished, and dehydrated, with a stomach infection. The family says staff avoided confrontation, and when the situation escalated, they called an ambulance and the patient was taken to the hospital. The family asserts that Lantern Park did not recognize the seriousness of his illness, failed to acknowledge his birthday that day, and did not secure his belongings or clothes properly, leaving the family with a sense that the facility was collecting Medicare payments while residents' basic needs went unmet. The reviewer urges others not to place loved ones in the care of this facility, describing it in unequivocal terms as a place to avoid, particularly for those who are vulnerable and dependent on consistent, attentive care. This account stands out for its intensity and for the explicit claim that the facility's systemic failures nearly cost a life, reinforcing the perception that patient safety and dignity can be compromised in a high-demand, under-resourced setting.

    On the other end of the spectrum, some reviewers recount experiences that suggest real progress and reassurance amid the challenges. They describe facilities that are well kept, with orderly operations and a sense of teamwork across departments. In these narratives, residents appear engaged, well cared for, and supported by staff who communicate with families and respond promptly to concerns about medications or symptoms. A number of reviewers note the positive impact of therapy services, praising not only the technical skill of therapists but also their manner - described as kind, cheerful, and encouraging. There are stories from families who appreciate being kept in the loop about changes in medications and who feel that staff members treat their loved ones with respect and compassion. Some reviews even present Lantern Park as a place of meaningful social interaction and lively activity, where residents look happy and well cared-for, reinforcing the perception that, for many, the facility provides a safe, nurturing environment.

    Even within staff experiences, perspectives vary but occasionally align with the more favorable side. A reviewer who identifies as a veteran calls Lantern Park the best facility they have used, praising very friendly staff and a homey atmosphere. Another account from a staff member highlights the strength of the therapy program and the camaraderie among nurses, therapists, and aides, emphasizing that the team "puts the residents first" and that the facility fosters a sense of teamwork and purpose. These insider perspectives contribute to a more nuanced portrait: Lantern Park can be seen as a place of professional dedication, where licensed and trained staff collaborate to deliver rehabilitation services, and where families who are present and engaged can feel assured that their loved ones are valued and attended to.

    Taken together, these reviews present a facility marked by a complex mix of strengths and vulnerabilities. The consistently positive voices emphasize a clean, inviting environment, strong therapy programs, and staff who are frequently described as caring, attentive, and collaborative. They speak to a culture of compassion, responsive communication, and a genuine commitment to residents' well-being. Yet the negative and cautionary stories reveal systemic issues that cannot be ignored: significant staffing shortages, questions about the adequacy of training and licensure of staff performing clinical tasks, delays in executing physician orders, and alarming incidents of neglect or mismanagement that have left families shaken and seeking accountability. These conflicting narratives suggest that Lantern Park Specialty Care operates with a dual reality - one where many residents and families experience high-quality care and heartfelt support, and another where safety and reliability concerns require urgent attention and systemic improvement.

    For anyone evaluating Lantern Park, the takeaway is multifaceted. The facility undeniably has moments of genuine warmth, professional therapy, and well-kept surroundings that can make a meaningful difference in a resident's quality of life. At the same time, there are serious red flags raised by several families - reports of injuries without timely disclosure, communication gaps, under-staffing, and practices that leave some residents at risk for unmet needs. It is essential for families to conduct thorough, on-site evaluations, ask pointed questions about staffing ratios, licensure and delegation of tasks, how physician orders are tracked and implemented, and how concerns are communicated to families. Viewing both the positive experiences and the troubling incidents provides a fuller picture of Lantern Park: a facility capable of excellent care in the right circumstances, but one that also requires vigilance, proactive oversight, and ongoing improvement to ensure every resident's safety, dignity, and well-being are consistently protected.

    Features

    Housing

    • 90 resident community capacity 90 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

    • Eastern Iowa (14 miles away) Eastern Iowa (14 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

    Lantern Park Specialty Care in Coralville, IA is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The community features a beauty salon, where residents can pamper themselves, as well as cable or satellite TV in each room for entertainment. Community operated transportation is available for residents to easily access nearby destinations, such as doctor's appointments or local cafes.

    For those who enjoy technology, there is a computer center with high-speed internet access available. Dining options are plentiful with a dining room offering restaurant-style meals prepared by the staff. Special dietary restrictions are also accommodated.

    Residents can stay active and engaged with various activities such as fitness programs, planned day trips, and resident-run activities. There is also a gaming room and small library for leisurely pursuits. Outdoor space and gardens provide opportunities for relaxation and enjoying nature.

    The community offers 24-hour call system and supervision for the safety and security of residents. Assistance with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, and transfers is provided whenever needed. Medication management ensures that medications are taken correctly, while diabetes diet support helps maintain proper nutrition for those with specific dietary needs.

    Transportation arrangement services are available both for non-medical purposes like errands or social outings, as well as transportation to doctors' appointments. A wellness center provides mental wellness programs to promote overall emotional well-being.

    Residing at Lantern Park Specialty Care means having access to numerous nearby amenities such as cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, hospitals, places of worship,and theaters. With its comprehensive range of amenities and care services combined with convenient access to nearby facilities, this assisted living community offers a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents in Coralville, IA.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Physicians

    • Woman To Woman Gynecology (0.2 miles)
    • Mercy Services Coralville (0.2 miles)
    • Mercy Family Medicine Coralville (0.2 miles)
    • Coralville Healthcare Clinic (0.4 miles)
    • Pediatric Associates (0.6 miles)
    • North Corridor Internal Medicine PC (0.6 miles)
    • Progressive Rehabilitation (0.8 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Quinton's Bar & Deli (0.8 miles)
    • Culver's (0.8 miles)
    • McDonald's (1 miles)
    • Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers (1.1 miles)
    • Steak 'n Shake (1.1 miles)
    • Red Lobster (1.2 miles)
    • Five Guys Burgers & Fries (1.3 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • Walgreens (0.8 miles)
    • Walmart Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
    • Nucara Pharmacy (2.1 miles)
    • Walgreens (2.8 miles)
    • Liberty Pharmacy (3.2 miles)
    • Walgreens (3.4 miles)
    • Hartig Drug (3.7 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Mercy Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa (0.9 miles)
    • Iowa Medical and Classification Center (1.1 miles)
    • Town Square Allergy and Asthma (2 miles)
    • Coralville Eye Clinic (2.1 miles)
    • North Liberty Family Health Center (3.2 miles)
    • University of Iowa Department of Pathology (3.8 miles)
    • UIHC Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center Class Room (3.8 miles)

    Theaters

    • Coral Ridge Cinema Coralville, Ia (1 miles)

    Transportation

    • U-Haul Moving & Storage (1.3 miles)

    Cafes

    • Starbucks (1.3 miles)
    • Caribou Coffee (1.3 miles)
    • Dunn Brothers Coffee (1.4 miles)
    • Starbucks (1.5 miles)
    • New Pioneer Co-Op (2.2 miles)
    • Panera Bread (2.8 miles)
    • Capanna Coffee and Gelato (3.5 miles)

    Parks

    • Mormon Handcart Park (2.7 miles)
    • Thornberry Off Leash Dog Park (2.8 miles)
    • Centennial Park, North Liberty Iowa (2.8 miles)
    • Fancy Dog Park (3.1 miles)
    • Lower City Park (3.4 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Christ the King Lutheran Church-Elca (3.4 miles)

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