Alaris Health At Essex

155 Fortieth Street, Irvington, NJ 07111

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

2.7 from 50 reviews
5 stars
14
4 stars
8
3 stars
0
2 stars
4
1 stars
24

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Alaris Health At Essex

Pros

  • pro The staff were professional and kind.
  • pro The staff were friendly and kind.
  • pro The administrators were helpful in obtaining Medicaid for her mother.
  • pro The facility was generally very clean.
  • pro A visitor enjoyed every minute with her God Sister Mary Guion, noting the staff were professional and polite.

Cons

  • pro The facility is unsanitary and the staff are very rude.
  • pro A family member says the service is poor and the aunt refuses to leave, calling the place home.
  • pro On arrival there were power outages, peeling paint, supplies unavailable, and beds not secured, leading to a fall and no timely help.
  • pro The place is terrible, with patients sitting in urine, a strong stench, and inadequate cleaning and feeding.
  • pro Several reviews claim loved ones died under their care after being placed there for rehab, with accusations of lying about medical status.
  • pro Visitation is severely restricted to windows, leaving families feeling ignored.
  • pro Multiple reviewers contend the facility should be shut down due to neglect and dangerous conditions.
  • pro One grandmother allegedly contracted Covid there and died; another relative died within days of admission.
  • pro There are calls for an investigation by authorities, including the FBI, over patient safety concerns.
  • pro The site is labeled as the worst nursing home in the country, with staff caring little about patient wellbeing.

Review

Across a broad range of firsthand accounts, this facility emerges in many voices as a place where families feel distressed, dismayed, and often outraged by what they describe as neglect, poor sanitation, and a troubling pattern of communication failures. Several reviewers frame their remarks with a blunt verdict: this is not a place you want to entrust to your loved ones. They speak of unsanitary conditions, rude and inattentive staff, and a sense that administration is distant or unresponsive. A recurring thread is the impression that basic levels of care - food, cleanliness, timely assistance, and clear updates - are not consistently delivered, and that families are left to fight for information and support.

In one particularly jarring set of events, a driver who was transporting a family member was involved in an accident, and the family learned of it only after the fact when the person was already in the hospital. The author of that account emphasizes a painful gap between what happened and when they were informed. Even more painful is the claim that a loved one's illness or death occurred while nobody could be sure how long it had gone unaddressed; a daughter laments, "I wish I was given options," reflecting a perceived lack of proactive communication and plan management during a crisis.

A number of reviews center on long-term residents and the daily quality of care, or the lack thereof. One family describes their aunt as having "been a resident for the past 7+ years" and says the service is "very poor," despite the aunt's affection for the place and her sense that it is "her home." Another account details an atmosphere of neglect: a nighttime outage left lights off, walls with peeling paint, and a lack of essential supplies. The reviewer notes that beds were not secured, incident reports were not completed after a fall, and there were no exams to assess potential additional injuries. The overall tone is of danger and chronic under-resourcing, with rude staff and a sense that basic safety and accountability are not reliably in place.

Pre-pandemic and early post-pandemic experiences are also described as consistently negative by some. A reviewer who had previously left a facility in a hurry still felt compelled to try again because the facility accepted their insurance, but the outcome was again "Terrible Facility." The brevity of that verdict contrasts with others who provide longer, more graphic recollections of care failures, yet the shared thread is a sense of urgency and dissatisfaction that eclipses any potential positives.

Nightmarish stories of medical neglect surface with regularity. One account recounts that it "killed my grandmother" after Covid-19 and poor cleanliness, while another describes another relative "let my grandfather die" and accuses staff of failing to feed him or notice changing conditions in a timely way. A strong sentiment runs through: some reviewers feel that patients are allowed to deteriorate or die because needs are not addressed promptly, and there is a sense of betrayal by a system that families believed would protect their loved ones. The language is stark - phrases like "death camp" and "blood on their hands" appear in some posts - reflecting the depth of anger and disappointment felt by those who have faced serious harm or loss.

Several reviewers go further, urging decisive action. There are calls for investigations, closures, or shutdowns: "The FBI needs to lunch an investigation into this facility," one person writes, albeit with a typographical slip that underscores the immediacy and intensity of the demand. Others urge that the entire building be closed and completely restaffed from administration downward, or that the state be informed and involved. These critiques are not only about individual lapses but about a broader sense of systemic failure that, in their view, permits avoidable harm.

Amid the sea of negative experiences, a few voices acknowledge moments of professionalism and care. Some reviewers specifically commend certain staff members as "professional and kind," and credit administrators with helping to secure Medicaid or navigate paperwork. A few mention that the place is generally clean, or that certain facilities - like the room or the bathroom - were adequate or fine for their loved one's needs. One reviewer notes that the front desk staff were polite and that the social worker seemed capable and kind. Another describes moments of positive engagement during visits, including time spent with a God sister in what appeared to be a relatively well-kept setting. These positive notes stand in contrast to the overwhelming majority of horror stories, reminding readers that individual experiences can vary and that some staff may indeed strive to do good work under difficult circumstances.

The overall impression left by these accounts is complex but overwhelmingly weighted toward concern for patient safety, dignity, and timely communication. Families repeatedly describe a lack of real visitation options, with windows the only practical way to connect - especially when the patient is on the first floor - creating emotional distance at a time when closeness and reassurance would be most meaningful. The sentiment that care quality has been inconsistent - from "Arrogant and disrespectful" aides to genuinely caring professionals - pervades the narratives. The recurring call is for greater transparency, accountability, and structural improvements to ensure that residents are fed, medically monitored, and treated with respect, and that families are kept informed rather than left to infer what is happening behind closed doors.

Taken together, these stories offer a searing portrait of a facility that many families feel failed to meet basic expectations for safety, cleanliness, and compassionate care. They are not merely about isolated incidents but about a pattern of communication gaps, care lapses, and administrative disconnects that leave loved ones vulnerable. Yet within the chorus of complaints there are occasional glimmers of hope - a few staff and administrators who provide meaningful support, and the possibility that improvements can be made when concerns are raised and formally addressed. For anyone considering this facility, the accounts urge caution, thorough tours, and careful consideration of whether there are options that can better safeguard a loved one's health, dignity, and well-being.

Features

Housing

  • 212 resident community capacity 212 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

  • Newark International (5 miles away) Newark International (5 miles away)
  • LaGuardia (20 miles away) LaGuardia (20 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

Alaris Health At Essex in Irvington, NJ is a premier 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 boasts a beauty salon where residents can pamper themselves, and cable or satellite TV in each room for entertainment. Community-operated transportation is available for outings and appointments, while a computer center provides access to technology.

Meals are served in a dining room with restaurant-style dining, offering delicious options prepared by the community's skilled culinary team. For those who prefer to cook their own meals, there is a kitchenette available. Housekeeping services ensure that residents enjoy clean and tidy living spaces.

Fitness enthusiasts can make use of the fully equipped fitness room for workouts, while gaming enthusiasts can enjoy the gaming room for some friendly competition. Outdoor space with a garden provides opportunities for relaxation and fresh air.

Residents can stay connected with family and friends through Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access, and a small library offers reading materials for leisurely enjoyment. Telephone services are also provided.

Alaris Health At Essex takes care of all transportation arrangements, both non-medical transportation as well as transportation to doctors' appointments. Move-in coordination services are available to make the transition smooth.

In terms of care services, the community offers 24-hour call systems and supervision to ensure the safety of residents at all times. Trained staff members provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is provided to ensure timely administration. The mental wellness program focuses on promoting emotional well-being among residents.

The community caters to special dietary restrictions such as diabetes diet and other dietary needs. Additionally, concierge services are available to assist residents with any requests or inquiries they may have.

To keep residents engaged and active, Alaris Health At Essex offers various activities such as fitness programs, planned day trips, resident-run activities, and scheduled daily activities.

With several cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, and hospitals in close proximity, residents have convenient access to essential services and recreational opportunities.

Alaris Health At Essex is dedicated to providing a comfortable and vibrant living environment where residents can maintain their independence while receiving the support they need.

Nearby Places of Interest

Cafes

  • The Bread Stand (0.3 miles)
  • True Salvage Cafe (0.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.7 miles)
  • Dunkin (4.1 miles)
  • Panera Bread (5.1 miles)
  • Paper Plane Coffee Co. (7 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.3 miles)

Parks

  • Milo S. Borden Park (0.8 miles)
  • Memorial Park (1.4 miles)
  • Orange Park Nj (2.7 miles)
  • South Mountain Reservation (5.2 miles)
  • Eagle Rock Reservation (5.4 miles)
  • Degnan Memorial Park (5.9 miles)
  • Winfield Park (6.3 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (1.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.1 miles)

Transportation

  • NJT - Maplewood Station (1.6 miles)
  • NJT - Millburn Station (2.9 miles)
  • Newark Liberty International Airport Station (3.3 miles)
  • Rail Link (3.3 miles)
  • East Orange Station (3.5 miles)
  • NJT - Brick Church Station (3.6 miles)
  • Avis Rent A Car (3.8 miles)

Restaurants

  • The Able Baker (1.7 miles)
  • El Gordo (2.1 miles)
  • Huck Finn Diner (2.3 miles)
  • Millburn Delicatessen (3 miles)
  • McLoone's Boathouse (3.8 miles)
  • McDonald's (3.9 miles)
  • Taco Bell (3.9 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Morrow Memorial United Methodist Church (1.9 miles)

Physicians

  • Merck (3.3 miles)
  • Kenilworth Primary Care (3.8 miles)
  • Summit Medical Group (4 miles)
  • Premier Urology Group (4.9 miles)
  • Summit Medical Group (5 miles)
  • Care Station Medical Group (5 miles)
  • Kartan Saritha Summit Medical Group Westfield (5.1 miles)

Hospitals

  • Saint Barnabas Medical Center (4.2 miles)

Theaters

  • 2198 Amc Jersey Garden (5.9 miles)

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