Cranford Health & Extended Care/ Birchwood Square in Cranford, NJ
Save205 Birchwood Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Cranford Health & Extended Care/Birchwood Square presents competitive pricing for its accommodations, with monthly costs reflecting the premium services provided. For a semi-private room, residents can expect to pay $7,800, which is notably higher than the average cost in Union County at $6,083 and significantly above New Jersey's state average of $5,068. When it comes to private rooms, the facility charges $8,250, again surpassing local and statewide averages - Union County's rate stands at $7,358 and New Jersey's overall figures show a lower average of $5,799. These costs not only encompass essential care but also highlight the facility's commitment to offering a quality living experience tailored to each resident's needs.
| Floor plans | Cranford Health & Extended Care/ Birchwood Square | Union County | New Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Private | $7,800 | $6,083 | $5,068 |
| Private | $8,250 | $7,358 | $5,799 |
The staff are pleasant, professional, and easy to work with, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Charloene Michel is kind, caring, and gentle with residents, bringing smiles each day. The front desk staff are friendly and helpful, brightening visitors' days. The administration and management are responsive to residents' needs and willing to assist families. The facility is clean, well maintained, and comfortable for residents. Gretchen and the recreation team provide enthusiastic, compassionate service that keeps residents engaged. CNAs such as Sharon Murphy and Marie Paul are described as compassionate and attentive to residents' needs. Nurses like Liz, Carmen, and Roger are attentive, thorough, and bring joy and care to residents. The PT/OT teams are skilled and supportive, helping residents progress and regain independence. The administrator Deb Hall is extremely helpful and goes out of her way to solve problems, making families feel like a part of the Birchwood family. The facility is often described as beautiful, with fantastic staff and management who treat residents like family. Families report that caregivers consistently deliver high-quality care and support, contributing to positive outcomes and peace of mind.
The facility is deplorable, not clean, and the staff do not bathe the patients; on Tuesdays they only wipe them down. The bathrooms were dirty for several days, and one resident had an upset stomach during their stay. The nurses do not respond to patients' calls on time. Dementia patients were locked in an isolated unit where they wandered unsupervised, yelled in empty hallways, and stole from each other. The place is chaotic, unsanitary, and disgraceful due to neglect, poor communication, and understaffing. During visits, residents were found on the floor, a man bleeding unattended, mystery substances smeared on floors, and broken air conditioning in sweltering heat. Weekends are understaffed and unresponsive; call buttons go unanswered for hours. The food was atrocious, and medications were left on beds or not given, sometimes with life-threatening risk. A reviewer reports an ostomy bag was reused from garbage and meds were taken from other patients because staff were too busy.Cranford Health & Extended Care / Birchwood Square is best suited for seniors who are navigating post-acute rehab or short-term recovery and want a facility where therapy, daily routines, and social engagement are top priorities. The community tends to attract families seeking tangible rehab progress - especially in physical therapy and occupational therapy - and a welcoming, home-like atmosphere. It is well-positioned for residents who benefit from consistent activity programming, visible staff involvement, and a straightforward intake process that helps families feel oriented after a hospital stay. For those whose primary need is ongoing long-term custodial care with perfect daily predictability, this community may require closer scrutiny and proactive oversight to ensure steady consistency.
Alternatives should be considered for families with nonnegotiable expectations around flawless day-to-day care. Several reviews describe serious lapses in basic necessities - delays in responding to call lights, gaps in hydration and wound care, or inconsistent housekeeping. Weekend and holiday staffing appears uneven in some accounts, and medication management has, in troubling cases, caused concerns about safety. If the top priorities are unflagging attentiveness, impeccable cleanliness at all times, and rigorous risk management, exploring other nearby options with known, unwavering weekend coverage and stricter medication protocols is prudent. The decision should hinge on one's tolerance for variability in daily care as opposed to rehabilitation outcomes alone.
The strongest positives center on the care culture around therapy and resident engagement. Families frequently praise the steady, capable therapy teams that drive meaningful mobility gains, and they note a responsive administrative layer that tends to listen and adapt care plans. The facility also earns acclaim for its clean, organized environment, modern amenities, and the energy of the activities and recreation staff who keep residents connected and mentally engaged. Front-desk and administrative interactions are described as warm and professional, contributing to a sense of being part of a caring community. For families prioritizing rehabilitation momentum and a social atmosphere, these are compelling advantages that can significantly improve short stays.
Still, the cited cons are not trivial and must be weighed carefully. A persistent thread in the negative reports is variability in staffing levels, especially on weekends, which can translate into slower responses, missed calls, or delays in routine care. Several reviewers recount episodes of unclean conditions, inappropriate or delayed medication administration, and inconsistent wound or hydration management. Environmental concerns - such as outdated rooms or areas with ventilation or odor issues - also surface in some visits. These factors do not negate the rehabilitative strengths, but they do erode confidence for families seeking a consistently flawless safety and care record.
Balancing strengths and risks yields a practical approach. If a rehab-focused stay is anticipated, Birchwood offers a credible path to measurable functional gains, provided a proactive plan is in place: establish a clear primary point of contact, request regular updates from the nursing coordinator, and insist on timely medication administration and daily hydration checks. Families should audition the pace of weekends and holidays, clarify staffing expectations with administration, and verify that the care plan includes explicit contingencies for wound care, bowel and bladder management, and mobility milestones. A candid pre-admission conversation with the director of nursing and social work can set the tone for communication, accountability, and escalation if concerns arise.
Ultimately, Cranford Health & Extended Care / Birchwood Square represents a solid option for families prioritizing rehab outcomes and a warm, engaged staff, with a caveat: ongoing diligence is essential. For those who can tolerate occasional lapses in daily consistency in exchange for strong therapy results and a genuinely supportive atmosphere, this community can be a smart, practical choice. For families where perfect day-to-day reliability is indispensable, or where past experiences with dehydration, neglect, or medication missteps loom large, it is wise to compare additional options, ask pointed questions, and, if possible, arrange multiple visits to observe weekend and evening coverage. The right fit hinges on aligning care quality with personal risk tolerance and recovery goals.
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.
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-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.
Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
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.
Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.
PrivatePrivacy is important for seniors as it allows them to maintain their independence, dignity, and sense of control over their own lives. It also gives them the space and freedom to relax, reflect, and engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. Creating private spaces within senior living facilities is crucial for promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
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.
Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.
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Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
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 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.
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. 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. Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.Cranford Health & Extended Care/ Birchwood Square is an assisted living community located in the charming town of Cranford, NJ. Our community offers a range of amenities to ensure our residents enjoy a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.
For those looking to maintain their beauty routine, we have a beautician on-site, providing services such as haircuts and styling. We also offer devotional services on-site, allowing residents to practice their faith in a supportive environment.
Our indoor common areas provide spaces for residents to socialize with each other or relax with a good book. For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, our outdoor common areas offer tranquil spaces to appreciate nature and soak up some sunshine.
We understand that sometimes caregivers need a break, which is why we offer respite or short-term stays. Whether it's for a weekend or a longer period of time, families can trust that their loved ones will receive quality care and support during their stay.
Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our wheelchair accessible showers, ensuring that all residents can easily navigate their personal hygiene routines with comfort and ease.
In terms of care services, we provide high acuity care for individuals with more complex medical needs. Our dedicated staff are trained to provide specialized care and support to enhance our residents' well-being. Incontinence care is also available for those who require assistance with managing this aspect of daily life.
While health and wellness are important aspects of life at Cranford Health & Extended Care/ Birchwood Square, we also understand the importance of staying socially engaged and mentally stimulated. Devotional activities are offered on-site for residents interested in spiritual enrichment.
Our location in Cranford provides easy access to various amenities and services in the surrounding area. With three cafes, six parks, 13 pharmacies, five physicians' offices, six restaurants, five transportation options, and one place of worship nearby, our residents have plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining out, accessing healthcare, and staying active in the local community.
At Cranford Health & Extended Care/ Birchwood Square, we strive to create a warm and inviting environment where our residents can thrive physically, emotionally, and socially. We invite you to join our community and experience all that we have to offer.
This part of Cranford, New Jersey offers a convenient location with various amenities nearby that may be beneficial for senior living. There are several physicians, pharmacies, cafes, parks, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters and a hospital within close proximity. This area is well-connected and provides easy access to healthcare services, shopping centers, dining options and recreational activities. The presence of multiple parks offers opportunities for outdoor excursions and relaxation. Additionally, the nearby transportation options make it convenient for seniors to travel within the area and beyond. Overall, this part of Cranford presents a well-rounded community with essential services and facilities for senior residents.
Cranford Health & Extended Care/Birchwood Square presents competitive pricing for its accommodations, with monthly costs reflecting the premium services provided. For a semi-private room, residents can expect to pay $7,800, which is notably higher than the average cost in Union County at $6,083 and significantly above New Jersey's state average of $5,068. When it comes to private rooms, the facility charges $8,250, again surpassing local and statewide averages - Union County's rate stands at $7,358 and New Jersey's overall figures show a lower average of $5,799. These costs not only encompass essential care but also highlight the facility's commitment to offering a quality living experience tailored to each resident's needs.
Cranford Health & Extended Care/ Birchwood Square is located at 205 Birchwood Ave, Cranford, NJ 07016 in Union County, New Jersey
Cranford Health & Extended Care/ Birchwood Square on seniors.fyi includes 7 photos including images showing healthcare, building, outdoors, interior, entrance, trees, clouds, parking, and more.
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