Northgate Care Center in Waukon, IA

960 4Th Street Nw, Waukon, IA 52172

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

4.4 from 10 reviews
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Overall Review of Northgate Care Center

Pros

  • pro The staff and administrator are caring and amazing.
  • pro The Northgate staff care for residents with kindness and respect.
  • pro John enjoys being at Northgate and is treated with kindness and respect.
  • pro Megan Kelly is perceptive and always willing to help wherever needed.
  • pro The meals served are wonderful, and Kris does an excellent job with food service.
  • pro Northgate is a caring, professional place with excellent staff.
  • pro The facility is well kept, and residents seem happy, content, and well cared for.
  • pro Residents find genuine connection with staff who are hardworking and truly caring.
  • pro Residents feel at home in private rooms and enjoy meals served with dignity.
  • pro Residents benefit from enriching daily activities like therapy, exercise, and transportation when needed.

Cons

  • pro The facility is extremely unprofessional and does not follow guidelines or protocol.
  • pro They never returned phone calls.
  • pro They did not pay for hours worked.
  • pro They did not wear masks to prevent residents from getting sick or contracting Covid.
  • pro They would hang up when answering the phone.
  • pro The facility is short-staffed, causing residents to wait too long to use the bathroom.

Review

Northgate Care Center in Waukon, IA is best suited for seniors who prize a warm, resident-centered atmosphere where staff show genuine care, meals are well-regarded, and private rooms support dignity and privacy. It suits families seeking a community with strong daily programming, therapy, exercise, and transportation when needed, and a leadership presence that appears engaged and accessible. This is a good fit for those who want a home-like environment where residents can form connections with caregivers and neighbors, and where important daily routines are reliably provided. It is especially appropriate for people with modest to moderate assistance needs who value personal attention, predictable schedules, and meaningful social activities. Those requiring sustained, high-acuity medical oversight or expansive, hospital-like accommodation should look at facilities with a medical acuity profile that better matches those requirements.

Not every family will find Northgate equally compelling. There is at least one report describing significant professionalism and communication shortcomings, including broken follow-through on phone calls and concerns about payroll practices, which signals a potential risk for those who rely on flawless administrative reliability. Other concerns note short-staffing that translates into delays in routine tasks, such as bathroom assistance, and the perception that some basic operations were not as smooth as expected. For families whose loved one needs very rapid response times, constant high-level supervision, or a consistently seamless administrative process, these red flags warrant careful probing during tours and in conversations with the administrator. In short, the facility can deliver warmth and quality, but the staffing and communication picture may be uneven at times.

The strongest positives at Northgate center on the human side of care and the tangible daily life the community supports. Staff are described as genuinely caring, with an administrator who is seen as attentive and hands-on. This leadership and caring ethos appear to translate into day-to-day warmth: residents feel at home, receive meals that are described as excellent, and experience a dining atmosphere where meals are served with dignity. Private rooms provide personal space and a sense of autonomy that many families prize, and the availability of transportation, therapy, and guided activities helps residents stay engaged without placing the full burden on families. In practice, these pros create a reliable, comforting rhythm, one that often compensates for occasional hiccups in staffing or communication by delivering consistent, respectful care and meaningful routines.

That said, the several cons identified in the community’s feedback deserve careful attention. When staffing dips occur, tasks that depend on steady support, such as mobility assistance and timely bathroom breaks, can suffer, creating real frustration for residents and their families. A small private room, while private, can feel cramped for longer stays or for couples who wish to remain together; and even in a well-run operation, gaps in call-light responsiveness or care-plan updates can erode confidence. These risks are not universal, but they are plausible given the described staffing realities. Prospective residents should insist on current staffing metrics, request examples of recent call-response times, and verify how care plans are updated and communicated to families. It is also prudent to tour at different times, speak with both staff and residents, and review the dining room workflow to gauge consistency in meal service and table seating.

For families weighing a decision, Northgate’s profile is best described as “strong where it counts.” If warmth, privacy, good meals, and active programming are top priorities, this center stands out as a solid fit. For households where uninterrupted staffing, consistent administrative follow-through, and rapid, unquestioned response to needs are non-negotiable, a careful comparison with other local options is warranted. Prospective residents should foreground questions about staffing ratios per shift, the process for handling urgent transport or on-site medical needs, and the administrator’s strategies for addressing any ongoing concerns about communication or payroll practices. In short, Northgate Care Center offers a compelling blend of home-like comfort and attentive caregiving, but families must verify that the current staffing and administrative dynamics align with their loved one’s specific care expectations.

In the final assessment, Northgate Care Center delivers a practical, compassionate living experience with standout dining, personal space, and meaningful daily activities. It is a favorable match for seniors who value dignity, routine, and social connectedness within a tightly run, community-oriented setting. The caveats are real and actionable: verify current staffing levels, drill into response times, and confirm how care planning and family communication are managed. If these elements align with what a family needs, Northgate can be a trustworthy, enriching home. If not, or if there is a stronger priority on unassailable staffing consistency and flawless administrative reliability, exploring other nearby options with a more robust staffing and governance track record is a sensible next step. The decision should hinge on balancing the warmth and privacy Northgate delivers with the family’s tolerance for staffing variability and the desired level of administrative certainty.

Features

Housing

  • 50 resident community capacity 50 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

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Care Services

  • 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.
  • 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

Northgate Care Center in Waukon, IA is an exceptional assisted living community that provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for seniors. Our center offers a range of amenities to ensure that our residents have everything they need to live a fulfilling and enjoyable life.

Residents at Northgate Care Center can enjoy their own fully furnished apartments with cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and a telephone for convenient communication. Our community features outdoor spaces and gardens where residents can relax and enjoy the fresh air. Our dining room offers restaurant-style dining with delicious meals prepared by our dedicated culinary staff. We also provide kitchenettes in each apartment for those who prefer to cook their own meals.

At Northgate Care Center, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean living space, which is why we offer housekeeping services to ensure that our residents' apartments are always tidy and well-maintained. Additionally, our move-in coordination service makes the transition into our community seamless and stress-free.

Our dedicated care services are designed to meet the individual needs of each resident. With 24-hour supervision, assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers is readily available. We also offer medication management to ensure that residents receive their medications on time. For those with specific dietary needs such as diabetes or special restrictions, our staff can provide personalized meal preparation and service.

We prioritize the mental wellness of our residents by offering a mental wellness program that includes various activities and therapies designed to stimulate the mind and promote emotional well-being. Residents can also participate in resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities to engage with others in the community.

Northgate Care Center is conveniently located near two pharmacies, two physicians' offices, eight restaurants, one transportation option, nine places of worship, and one hospital. This ensures easy access to essential services and amenities for both residents and their families.

At Northgate Care Center in Waukon, IA, we strive to provide a supportive and enriching environment for our residents. With our comprehensive amenities, dedicated care services, and convenient location, we are confident that our assisted living community is the perfect place to call home.

Nearby Places of Interest

Places of Worship

  • Wels (0.4 miles)
  • St Paul's United Methodist Church (0.6 miles)
  • First Baptist Church (0.7 miles)
  • King of Grace Lutheran Church (0.7 miles)
  • Zion UCC (0.8 miles)
  • St John's Lutheran Church (0.8 miles)
  • Zion United Church of Christ (0.8 miles)

Restaurants

  • Vet's Club (0.7 miles)
  • Good Fellas (0.8 miles)
  • Vlora Family Restaurant (0.8 miles)
  • Ace of Spades (0.8 miles)
  • Fiesta Vallarta (0.8 miles)
  • Hardee's (1.1 miles)
  • WW Homestead Dairy (1.4 miles)

Hospitals

  • Gundersen Vision Center (0.7 miles)
  • Thornton Manor Nursing Center (13.5 miles)
  • Gundersen Behavioral Health (14 miles)
  • Gundersen Clinic (14.2 miles)
  • Gundersen Lansing Clinic (14.3 miles)
  • Barthell Eastern Star Nursing Home (15 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Hartig Drug (0.8 miles)
  • Shopko Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
  • Thrifty White Pharmacy (14.8 miles)
  • Medicap Pharmacy (14.8 miles)
  • Domlin Phrmacy (15.5 miles)
  • Donlon Health Mart Pharmacy (15.5 miles)

Physicians

  • Gundersen Lutheran - Waukon Clinic (0.8 miles)
  • Gundersen Eye Clinic Waukon (0.9 miles)
  • The Family Care Clinic, PC (14.7 miles)

Transportation

  • Waukon Municipal Airport (Y01) (0.9 miles)
  • Big River Taxidermy (11.7 miles)
  • Decorah Municipal Airport (DEH) (12.8 miles)
  • Decorah Rental (13.9 miles)
  • U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (14.2 miles)

Parks

  • Lull's Park (14.2 miles)
  • Mount Hosmer Park (14.3 miles)
  • Barnhart - Van Peenen Park (14.9 miles)
  • Siewers Spring State Park (15.1 miles)
  • Miller Park (15.2 miles)
  • Ice Cave Hill Park (15.2 miles)

Cafes

  • Nutmegs Bakery & Cafe (14.3 miles)
  • Impact Coffee (15.4 miles)
  • Magpie Coffeehouse (15.5 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Northgate Care Center?

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