Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake

Save

  • Interior

    A cozy and inviting living room with a rustic brick fireplace, comfortable seating, and bright floral accents.
  • Outdoors

    A serene garden featuring a gazebo surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Decor

    A modern kitchen layout featuring dark cabinets, a double sink, and decorative elements including flowers.
  • Building

    Outdoor view of 'The Lodge at Howard Lake' with a sign and surrounding greenery.
  • Architecture

    A suburban residential house with a front porch and landscaped surroundings.
  • Windows

    A brick building with a sloped roof and clear blue skies.
  • Kitchen

    A stylish kitchen break area featuring a coffee station and modern appliances.
  • Bathroom

    A clean and tidy bathroom featuring a sink, mirror, and wooden doors.
  • Healthcare

    A welcoming sign for the Good Samaritan Society, emphasizing care and support.
  • Living Space

    A cozy living area featuring striped chairs, a decorative lamp, and various crosses on the wall.

Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake

413 13Th Avenue, Howard Lake, MN 55349

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

4.6 from 8 reviews
5 stars
5
4 stars
3
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
0

Skilled Nursing Facility

What level of care are you interested in?

Assisted Living

Memory Care

Independent Living

Skilled Nursing Facility

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)CCRC

Other


Request a tour at Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake

    Overall Review of Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake

    Pros

    • pro The administration, nursing, PT/OT, food service, housekeeping, and activities staff are excellent.
    • pro The nursing staff is top notch and caring.
    • pro Nursing managers regularly work the floor to provide patient care, with a supervisor on duty at least one day per week.
    • pro The care at this facility is great, with staff who respond promptly to residents' needs.
    • pro They encourage residents to do as much as they can, and residents enjoy the company of other residents.
    • pro The facility offers meal options and alternative choices, along with a variety of activities like trivia nights and animal visits or entertainment.
    • pro The office staff listen to residents' needs and explain how they can be met; the staff are well informed about each resident.
    • pro Tracy is an outstanding nurse who truly cares for residents as if they were family.

    Cons

    • pro The 3rd shift staff were not caring; they put her back to bed after a bathroom visit without covering her or talking to her.
    • pro The relative said the staff were rude and seemed bothered and annoyed.
    • pro The food wasn't great.

    Review

    This community is best suited for seniors who want hands-on, compassionate nursing care, reliable rehab services, and a social, staff-driven environment where leadership remains engaged on the floor. Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake excels in clinical warmth: nursing teams described as top-notch and genuinely caring, with managers who roll up their sleeves to provide direct patient care. Residents benefit from strong therapy support and a broad array of activities, from trivia nights to animal visits and entertainers. The setting supports long-term residence as well as rehabilitation, with clear attention to safety, consistent call responsiveness, and a family-friendly atmosphere where visits are welcomed and members are kept informed.

    However, some caveats exist and should influence decision-making. The strongest appeal here lies with families who value staff dedication, ongoing therapy, and a lively activity calendar more than gourmet dining or perfectly consistent behavior across all shifts. For seniors whose priority is high-end dining, unusually quiet surroundings, or uniformly warm interactions on every shift, alternatives may be better. There is a perception that the 3rd shift is not always as attentive, and a single report of routine care that felt curt underscores that no facility is flawless. Prospective buyers should inquire about staffing patterns, shift coverage, and menu options to gauge fit.

    On balance, the positives substantially offset the drawbacks. The standout nursing staff - caring, responsive to calls, and consistently focused on meeting individual needs - creates a dependable safety net. Leadership presence on the floor helps ensure accountability and practical problem-solving, while a rehab-focused PT/OT program delivers tangible value for both short-term recovery and long-term wellness. The emphasis on family involvement, care conferences, and transparent communication fosters trust and peace of mind for relatives. Meal options and flexibility mitigate dissatisfaction with certain menu items, even if culinary quality isn't universally lauded. The overall environment feels respectful and encouraging, with residents staying engaged in daily activities and social connections.

    Residents describe a warm, dignified living experience: rooms that are comfortable, staff who respond promptly, and visitors who are welcomed without hesitation. The facility's approach to integrating residents into a robust activity calendar keeps days meaningful, while the rehab department earns consistently positive comments. A well-coordinated team - across clinical staff, therapists, and office personnel - ensures that services align with individual needs and expectations. Still, a few voices suggest the dining experience could be more compelling, indicating an area ripe for ongoing improvement in culinary programming.

    For families weighing options, this community represents a prudent choice for those prioritizing steady nursing oversight, engaged leadership, and an active social environment. It is particularly strong for long-term care and rehabilitation where routine medical attention and personalized attention matter most. Caution is warranted for those whose top criteria include gourmet meals or flawless day-to-day warmth across all shifts, as those aspects may vary. Prospective residents should arrange a candid tour focused on staffing patterns, meet with a nurse-manager during a typical shift, and review sample menus and activity calendars to ensure alignment with expectations.

    Overall, Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake stands out as a solid, practical choice for families seeking a well-staffed, resident-centered environment that values safety, engagement, and transparent communication. The combination of compassionate clinical care, active therapy services, and a welcoming atmosphere often offsets sporadic concerns about dining quality or third-shift consistency. For those who want a dependable, family-oriented setting with tangible support for rehabilitation and daily living, this community warrants serious consideration; for others with rigid dining standards or specific shift-based expectations, exploring alternatives remains reasonable.

    Features

    Housing

    • 32 resident community capacity 32 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

    The Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake in Howard Lake, MN is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to its residents. The community provides a comfortable living environment with fully furnished apartments that include cable or satellite TV, kitchenettes, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access.

    Residents can enjoy delicious meals served in a restaurant-style dining room, with special dietary restrictions accommodated. There is also a small library where residents can relax and indulge in reading. Outdoor spaces such as gardens provide opportunities for fresh air and enjoying nature.

    Care services at the Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake are personalized and tailored to meet the individual needs of each resident. Trained staff provide 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is also offered to ensure that residents receive their needed medications at the appropriate times.

    The community promotes mental wellness through a dedicated program that focuses on the emotional health of residents. Additionally, there are resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities to keep residents engaged and socially active.

    Conveniently located near pharmacies, places of worship, and hospitals, the Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake ensures easy access to essential services for its residents. Move-in coordination services are provided to assist new residents in transitioning smoothly into their new home.

    Overall, the Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake offers a comfortable and supportive assisted living environment where residents can enjoy their independence while receiving the care they need.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Hospitals

    • Ridgeview Howard Lake Clinic (0.4 miles)
    • Ridgeview Winsted Clinic (6.5 miles)
    • Meeker Memorial Clinic (11.6 miles)
    • Community Behavioral Health Hospital Annandale (13.4 miles)
    • Buffalo Hospital Emergency Department (13.7 miles)
    • Alongside Services (13.7 miles)
    • Buffalo Clinic (13.7 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • Howard Lake Drug Company (0.5 miles)
    • Keaveny Drug (5.5 miles)
    • Keaveny Drug (6.9 miles)
    • Peterson Pharmacy (11.4 miles)
    • Sterling Pharmacy (12.6 miles)
    • Sterling Drug (12.6 miles)
    • Walgreens (13 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Good Shepherd Free Lutheran Church (4.7 miles)
    • St Mary's Catholic Church (5.3 miles)
    • Elim Mission Church (5.5 miles)
    • Sisters of St Francis Health Services (6.5 miles)
    • Holy Trinity Parish (6.9 miles)
    • St John's Educational Center (8 miles)
    • Wels (10.8 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Subway (5.5 miles)
    • Iron Horse Grill & Saloon (5.5 miles)
    • Crazi Coffee (6.8 miles)
    • Subway (6.8 miles)
    • Crazi Coffee & Bakery (6.9 miles)
    • Pantry (7 miles)
    • Blue Note Restaurant (7.1 miles)

    Parks

    • Cokato Corn Carnival (5.5 miles)
    • Veterans Memorial Park (5.9 miles)
    • Collinwood Lake Park (8.1 miles)
    • Gary Mattson Park (11.6 miles)
    • Sturges Park (12.4 miles)
    • The Park (12.8 miles)
    • Mills Sturges Park (12.8 miles)

    Physicians

    • Kenneth D Ness DDS (6.6 miles)
    • Lakeview Clinic (12.9 miles)
    • Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (13 miles)
    • Allina Medical Clinic (13.3 miles)
    • Richardson Nancy MD (13.6 miles)
    • Strohschein, Jonathan Dr-Allina Medical Clinic Annandale (13.7 miles)
    • West Metro Ophthalmology (13.7 miles)

    Cafes

    • Irish Blessings Coffeehouse (12.3 miles)
    • Central Cafe (12.4 miles)
    • Mario's Italian Kitchen (13.2 miles)
    • Folly Coffee Roasters (13.6 miles)
    • Caribou Coffee (15.2 miles)

    Transportation

    • Hoof's Taxidermy (12.9 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake?
    What photos are available for Good Samaritan Society - Howard Lake in Howard Lake, Minnesota?

    Nearby Communities

    • The Lodge Of Howard Lake

      The Lodge Of Howard Lake

      Howard Lake, MN

      5 from 3 reviews
       

      pro 24/7 supervision and ADL support with medication management, plus furnished apartments, transportation, and regular activities.

    • Edgewood Gables

      Edgewood Gables

      Cokato, MN

      4 from 1 review
       

      pro Clean, welcoming environment with friendly staff and good meals.

    • Cokato Manor Home Health

      Cokato Manor Home Health

      Cokato, MN

       
       

      pro Fully furnished rooms with 24/7 supervision, meals, daily living assistance, and medical transportation.

    • Brookridge

      Brookridge

      Cokato, MN

      4.5 from 2 reviews
       

      pro Convenient location near family with a welcoming, home-like atmosphere and active activities.

    • Cokato Manor

      Cokato Manor

      Cokato, MN

       
       

      pro Restaurant-style dining and on-site care in a smaller community.

    • HERITAGE PLACE

      HERITAGE PLACE

      COKATO, MN

       
       

      pro Nearby parks, a pharmacy, dining options, and places of worship support holistic well-being.

    • Lakeside Health Care Center

      Lakeside Health Care Center

      Dassel, MN

       
       

    • Park View Senior Health and Living Health Care Center

      Park View Senior Health and Living Health Care Center

      Buffalo, MN

      5 from 1 review
       

      pro Caring, patient-centered staff with effective rehab support.

    • The Glenn Buffalo Cottages Memory Care

      The Glenn Buffalo Cottages Memory Care

      Buffalo, MN

       
      $3,705 / month

      pro Competitively priced memory care with strong on-site amenities (beautician, devotional services, dining programs) and comprehensive care options.

    Related Resources

    • memory games for seniors9 Stimulating Memory Activities for Seniors: Puzzles, Cards, and Much More

      The article highlights nine memory-boosting activities for seniors that enhance cognitive health and social interaction, including puzzles, trivia quizzes, and storytelling, while emphasizing the importance of adapting these activities to individual preferences to maximize enjoyment and engagement. Consistent mental engagement is linked to improved cognitive function and emotional well-being in older adults.

    • what happens when medicare stops paying for nursing home careManaging Nursing Home Expenses After Medicare Coverage Ends

      Medicare provides limited coverage for skilled nursing home care, covering full benefits for the first 20 days and partial benefits up to 100 days under certain conditions, after which families must explore alternative funding options like Medicaid or long-term care insurance to manage potentially high costs. Proactive planning is essential to navigate the complexities of financing ongoing care once Medicare coverage ends.

    • geriatric care managerIs a Geriatric Care Manager the Right Choice for Your Family?

      Geriatric care managers create personalized care plans for older adults, addressing their medical, social, financial, and psychological needs while coordinating services and advocating for their well-being. They help families navigate caregiving challenges but may be hindered by high costs and a shortage of qualified professionals.


    Get Pricing Ask A Question Schedule A Tour Contact Senior Advisor