Crystal Lake Healthcare in Bayville, NJ

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Crystal Lake Healthcare in Bayville, NJ

Information last verified:

395 Lakeside Blvd, Bayville, NJ 08721

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

3 from 70 reviews
5 stars
32
4 stars
3
3 stars
1
2 stars
3
1 stars
31

Overall Review of Crystal Lake Healthcare

Pros

  • pro The staff are compassionate, attentive, and take the time to treat everyone with dignity and respect.
  • pro Crystal Lake Rehabilitation and Nursing Center provides a caring and supportive environment for residents and patients.
  • pro The facility is clean, well maintained, and welcoming, making the recovery and long-term care experience more comfortable.
  • pro Families can feel confident that their loved ones are in good hands.
  • pro The Crystal Lake team is amazing and goes out of their way to help residents and visitors.
  • pro The staff are remarkably dedicated, friendly, and highly professional, ensuring residents' needs are met with kindness and respect.
  • pro Crystal Lake residents are like family, supported by a great team of long-term employees.
  • pro The activities department offers engaging programs, with residents enjoying bingo, music, dancing, and movies.
  • pro The facility feels warm and has a true family atmosphere.
  • pro The new administration aims to make amazing improvements and do great things.

Cons

  • pro The facility is disgusting and the staff are horrible.
  • pro The CNAs are horrible, and the rooms smell of urine and feces.
  • pro The food there is not fit for an animal.
  • pro The place needs to be investigated and shut down.
  • pro The facility is dirty and old and should be demolished.
  • pro The nurses on the floors are rude and lack basic customer service skills.
  • pro The staff left residents in their own waste, which led to UTIs.
  • pro The website is a sham and the advertised services do not exist.

Review

Crystal Lake Healthcare in Bayville is best suited for families that prize a warm, family-like atmosphere and staff who genuinely invest in daily caregiving. The strongest value rests with front-line teams, the aides, nurses, and activity staff, who residents and visitors repeatedly describe as caring, attentive, and accessible. For long-term residents who want steady social interaction and a sense of community, Crystal Lake can deliver daily warmth that often matters almost as much as clinical metrics. There are signs of administrative direction and ongoing improvement efforts, with leadership signaling a clearer path to better service on at least some floors. For families prioritizing personal connection, hands-on attention, and a home-like feel over pristine décor, this community frequently satisfies those expectations.

But serious caveats demand careful consideration. A large thread of reviews presents alarming safety and quality concerns, including neglect of basic tasks, persistent odors, and outdated surroundings, with allegations of residents left unsupervised or untreated during appointments. Reports of staffing shortages, medication handling issues, and even outright abuse surface with enough frequency to shape risk perception. State-level enforcement for staffing violations and a pattern of mixed experiences across floors further complicate the decision. Families should explicitly weigh whether a facility with such a contested track record can deliver reliable, consistent care day after day, especially for loved ones with complex medical needs or mobility limitations that demand vigilant oversight.

On the upside, the positives are consistent enough to matter where care teams are stable. Reviews commend a compassionate, resident-centered culture on many shifts, with families and former residents highlighting the warmth of the environment and the dedication of long-tenured staff. The social-work and admissions teams are seen as responsive and supportive, and the activities program, bingo, music, dancing, outings, provides meaningful engagement that sustains morale and helps residents feel part of a community. In cases where a resident has found stability or healing, administrators and front-desk personnel have shown genuine dedication. These strengths matter when navigating rehabilitation or recovery periods, because a daily sense of dignity and respect can facilitate cooperation with care plans. Yet the contrast with the more troubling incidents remains real, and the scale of risk in other reports cannot be dismissed.

That gap becomes most visible when conditions are described as old, with crowded rooms and furnishings that feel worn. Multiple reviewers flag shared bathrooms, odors, and maintenance issues that echo beyond a single floor. Communication bottlenecks, difficulty reaching certain floors or delays in getting timely responses, compound daily stresses for families and residents alike. The most alarming narratives touch on hygiene lapses, medication concerns, and allegations of abuse by some staff. While not every story reflects the entire campus, the frequency and intensity of complaints require prospective visitors to demand concrete assurances: current staffing levels by shift, a clear corrective plan for high-risk areas, visible cleanliness measures, and a transparent process for escalation and accountability. Without visible, sustained remediation, the positives may be insufficient to offset the perceived risks.

For families weighing options, Crystal Lake should be compared against facilities that demonstrate stronger, verifiable quality control, cleaner environments, and steadier staffing. Alternatives with newer infrastructure and smaller resident loads can meaningfully reduce risk for residents with significant medical or cognitive needs. If the choice is constrained by geography or cost, treat Crystal Lake as a structured trial: insist on a fixed schedule for nurse presence during doctor visits, request access to recent inspection and incident reports, and arrange frequent, unannounced tours at different times of day. Probe for a dedicated unit if dementia care is required, and insist on weekly updates to care plans. In short, Crystal Lake may work for some, but it demands stringent oversight and explicit expectations from day one to guard against the more troubling narratives.

Bottom line: Crystal Lake Healthcare represents a high-variance option that can deliver genuine warmth and personal attention in a community setting, but the breadth of safety concerns and inconsistent care narratives cannot be brushed aside. For families where daily comfort, social engagement, and the presence of a willing, friendly staff are nonnegotiable, the facility can satisfy those needs, provided rigorous checks are in place and improvements are demonstrably ongoing. For anyone whose priority is rock-solid safety, predictable medical oversight, and spotless operational reliability, alternatives should be pursued more vigorously. The decisive move is to tour with a sharp checklist, press for hard data on staffing and compliance, and decide based on whether the current trajectory and leadership are credible enough to sustain trustworthy, respectful care over the long term.

Features

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

  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
  • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Respite or short term stays offered Respite or short term stays offeredRespite or short term stays provide seniors with a temporary solution when their regular caregiver is unavailable, offering them the opportunity to receive additional care and support during times of need, while also giving caregivers a chance to rest and recharge.
  • 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

  • High acuity care High acuity careHigh acuity care is important for seniors because it provides specialized medical attention and support for individuals with complex medical needs. This level of care ensures that seniors receive the appropriate treatment and assistance to maintain their health and quality of life as they age.
  • Incontinence care Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.
  • 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.

Dining

  • Kosher KosherKosher options are important for seniors because they adhere to dietary laws that are significant to many Jewish individuals, providing them with peace of mind and an opportunity to maintain their cultural traditions and beliefs while living in a senior living community.
  • Low / no sodium Low / no sodiumLow/no sodium options are important for seniors because excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues commonly experienced by older adults. By choosing low/no sodium foods, seniors can better manage their health and reduce their risk of developing these conditions.
  • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
  • No Sugar No SugarNo sugar diets are important for seniors because they can help prevent or manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Sugar can also contribute to cognitive decline and inflammation in the body, so reducing sugar intake can lead to overall improved health and well-being in older adults.
  • Vegetarian VegetarianA vegetarian diet is important for seniors because it can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, maintain a healthy weight, and provide essential nutrients needed for aging bodies. Additionally, plant-based diets are often easier on digestive systems and can contribute to overall well-being in older adults.

Activities

  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.

Description

Crystal Lake Healthcare is an exceptional assisted living community located in the peaceful town of Bayville, NJ. Our community offers a range of amenities and top-notch care services to ensure our residents live a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.

At Crystal Lake Healthcare, we understand the importance of looking and feeling your best. That's why we have an on-site beautician who is available to provide various beauty and grooming services, allowing our residents to always feel their best.

Our indoor common areas are thoughtfully designed to promote socialization and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether our residents want to engage in group activities or simply relax with friends, they will find the perfect space within our community.

We also offer respite or short-term stays for individuals who need temporary assistance or recovery support. This service provides peace of mind for both residents and their families, knowing that professional care is readily available during their stay with us.

Keeping up with today's fast-paced world is easy at Crystal Lake Healthcare, as we provide Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access throughout our community. Residents can easily connect with loved ones through email, video chats, or simply browse the internet at their convenience.

Our dedicated staff members are trained in providing specialized care for individuals requiring incontinence care and medication management. We prioritize the health and well-being of each resident and ensure that their specific needs are met through personalized care plans.

When it comes to dining options, Crystal Lake Healthcare goes above and beyond to cater to various dietary needs. Our delicious meals are low/no sodium, free from sugar, and we also offer vegetarian options. We believe that good nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining overall health, so our talented culinary team prepares flavorful dishes using fresh ingredients.

Surrounded by nature's beauty, Crystal Lake Healthcare boasts three parks nearby for residents to enjoy leisurely walks or outdoor activities. Additionally, there are several pharmacies conveniently located nearby for easy access to medications or healthcare supplies. With 14 physicians in the vicinity, residents have access to a wide range of healthcare professionals. If dining out or exploring local cuisine is desired, our community is within close proximity to 19 restaurants. For transportation needs, there is a reliable transportation service located nearby for convenient travel options. In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, three hospitals are also easily accessible.

At Crystal Lake Healthcare, we strive to create an environment where seniors can thrive and receive exceptional care. With our range of amenities and services, we provide a comfortable and enriching lifestyle that truly feels like home.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Bayville, New Jersey, offers a convenient and diverse range of amenities for seniors looking to settle in the area. With a variety of restaurants such as Yesterday's Restaurant and MJ's Restaurant Bar & Grill, there are plenty of dining options to enjoy. Additionally, there are several medical facilities nearby including Lacey Diagnostic Imaging Center and Southern Ocean Center For Health, providing easy access to healthcare services. Recreation opportunities can be found at parks like Gille Park and Jakes Branch County Park, while pharmacies like Rite Aid and Walgreens offer convenience for medication needs. Overall, this area provides a well-rounded community with essential services for seniors looking to make Bayville their home.

Restaurants

  • Yesterday's Restaurant (1.8 miles)
  • Jt's Bagel Hut (2.4 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.6 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.9 miles)
  • The Lacey Diner (2.9 miles)
  • MJ's Restaurant Bar & Grill (3.2 miles)
  • Two Sister's Ice Cream Stop (3.3 miles)

Physicians

  • Dr Santo-Domingo (1.8 miles)
  • Mabagos Jerry Dr (2.3 miles)
  • Dennis Earl Novak (2.4 miles)
  • Brielle Orthopedics at Rothman (2.5 miles)
  • Moss Kathy Brielle Orthopedics (2.5 miles)
  • Medical Associates of Marlboro - Bayville (2.6 miles)
  • Liviu C Crisan (2.7 miles)

Parks

  • Gille Park (2.3 miles)
  • Jakes Branch County Park (2.6 miles)
  • John C. Bartlett County Park (3.6 miles)
  • O Street Playground (6.8 miles)

Hospitals

  • Lacey Diagnostic Imaging Center (2.4 miles)
  • Southern Ocean Center For Health (2.5 miles)
  • Children's Specialized Hospital Outpatient Center – Toms River Lakehurst Road (4.6 miles)
  • Community Medical Center For Kids & Family (5.4 miles)
  • Children’s Specialized Hospital Outpatient and Long Term Care Center – Toms River Stevens Road (8.1 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (2.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.6 miles)
  • Medicine To Go Pharmacies (2.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.5 miles)
  • Rite Aid (4.7 miles)
  • Forked River Pharmacy (4.7 miles)
  • Rite Aid (4.9 miles)

Transportation

  • Toms River Bus Terminal (4 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Presbyterian Church of Toms River (5.4 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (6.1 miles)

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