The Lodge At Mills River

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  • Interior

    A well-decorated dining room with elegantly set tables and classic chandeliers.
  • Outdoors

    A picturesque view of a modern facility nestled in a serene landscape, surrounded by autumn foliage and mountains.
  • Decor

    A cozy living room featuring a modern fireplace and stylish seating.
  • Living Room

    A cozy living room featuring a stone fireplace and comfortable armchairs.
  • Building

    A landscaped area with a sign for Hendersonville Health & Rehabilitation, featuring neatly trimmed bushes and trees under a cloudy sky.
  • Architecture

    A modern residential building with landscaped grounds and a welcoming pathway.
  • Fireplace

    A cozy living room featuring a stone fireplace, comfortable seating, and ample natural light.
  • Lobby

    A welcoming reception area featuring a blend of modern and natural elements.
  • Chandelier

    A cozy and modern living room featuring comfortable seating, a fireplace, and ample natural light.

The Lodge At Mills River

5593 Old Haywood Road, Mills River, NC 28759

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

4.3 from 46 reviews
5 stars
37
4 stars
1
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 stars
6

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of The Lodge At Mills River

Pros

  • pro The Lodge's staff are compassionate, professional, and thoroughly attentive to patients' needs.
  • pro The facility is beautiful, clean, and feels like a luxury hotel.
  • pro PT and OT therapists are outstanding and tailor programs to each patient.
  • pro The rehab program sets clear goals and delivers a solid, quick recovery.
  • pro The dining service is restaurant-quality with a wide variety of choices.
  • pro The activities schedule is engaging and lifts residents' spirits.
  • pro Administration and front desk staff are welcoming, helpful, and responsive.
  • pro Families feel confident their loved ones are well cared for and respected.
  • pro Staff go above and beyond to accommodate personal preferences and special occasions.
  • pro The Lodge is a first-class rehab facility that residents and families highly recommend.

Cons

  • pro The air quality in the patient's room was poor and there was no diabetic nutrition available.
  • pro The DON was quick to bully elder patients into procedures and drugs, while the care team opposed.
  • pro The night shift was loud with a party-like atmosphere.
  • pro One nurse was rude and pain medications were not given on time, forcing patients to beg for prescriptions.
  • pro The food was awful.
  • pro Some staff were rude and used obscene language to describe family members.
  • pro Some patients were left for hours without anyone checking on them.
  • pro The on-call doctor was very strange.
  • pro A patient developed an infection due to delayed attention, which could have been fatal.

Review

The Lodge At Mills River is best suited for seniors who are pursuing aggressive, goal-driven rehabilitation after surgery or a serious medical event and who want that recovery work to unfold in a warm, resort-like setting. The facility consistently earns praise for its first-rate physical therapy and occupational therapy teams, who tailor programs to individual needs and drive tangible gains - often returning patients to walking with walkers or canes and regaining strength faster than expected. The combination of a beautiful campus, spotless cleanliness, and attentive staff creates an environment where recovery feels possible and supported from intake through discharge.

This community is not the right fit for every path to care. Families prioritizing long-term, stable assisted living without a strong emphasis on rehabilitation may prefer alternatives that focus more on day-to-day living and chronic care management. Several reviews mention inconsistent experiences outside rehab episodes, with reports of variable nursing responsiveness, pain-management delays, or staff interactions that feel less than uniformly respectful. For those whose primary concern is predictable nutrition, or who require unwavering, round-the-clock medical oversight, it makes sense to investigate other options where the care model is more consistently aligned with long-term residence.

The strongest pros - exceptional rehab outcomes, a compassionate, well-trained therapy staff, and a facility that feels like a high-end hotel - tend to offset the biggest drawbacks. PT and OT staff members are repeatedly described as thorough, motivating patients to hit measurable milestones, and nursing teams are praised for kindness and attentiveness. The setting reinforces recovery: spacious, well-lit common areas, inviting dining and lounge spaces, and engaging activities that keep spirits high during a challenging process. When families share how well their loved ones regained function and regained confidence, the overall experience feels less like a skilled-nursing stay and more like a meticulously managed healing journey.

However, not every experience lands perfectly. A minority of reviews raise concerns about food quality at times, with some patients or families wishing for healthier or more varied menus. Others recount moments of frustration with wait times for medications or with specific staff interactions that felt less supportive. These concerns are not universal, but they matter to consider: they suggest a need for proactive engagement with care teams, especially around pain control and daily needs during peak hours. The Lodge's strength in rehabilitation and hospital-grade responsiveness in many stories will need to be weighed against these more sporadic service questions.

For decision-making, prospective residents should prioritize a thorough briefing on the rehab trajectory and discharge planning. Ask for a clear daily routine: exact PT/OT session frequency, goals, and how progress is communicated to families. Tour the therapy gym during a typical day and speak with therapists about how plans are coordinated with nursing and medical teams. Explore dining options, including room service and any ala carte choices, and request a current menu to assess alignment with nutritional needs. Consider the overall atmosphere, scheduling flexibility for visits, and how staff engage families in care decisions.

In closing, The Lodge At Mills River stands out as a premier rehabilitative destination in Western North Carolina, delivering proven outcomes, compassionate care, and a setting that fosters healing. Its strength in physical rehabilitation, coupled with attentive staff and a welcoming environment, makes it a compelling choice for those who need to regain independence after surgery or serious illness. Those seeking long-term, non-rehab-focused care, or who require highly consistent pain management and nutrition across a wide range of needs, should evaluate alternatives with a sharper lens on everyday living quality and 24/7 medical oversight. A thoughtful on-site tour paired with direct conversations about expectations will reveal whether this lodge-like rehab hub aligns with the family's goals and the senior's preferences.

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.

Transportation

  • Asheville Regional (2 miles away) Asheville Regional (2 miles away)

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 Lodge At Mills River in Mills River, NC is a premier assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to meet the needs of its residents. The community features cable or satellite TV and wi-fi/high-speed internet, allowing residents to stay connected and entertained. Each apartment is fully furnished with a kitchenette, providing convenience and independence. Housekeeping services ensure that the living spaces are clean and comfortable.

Residents can enjoy outdoor space and a garden, perfect for relaxing or taking walks in nature. The community also offers restaurant-style dining where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the staff. Special dietary restrictions are accommodated to ensure that everyone receives the proper nutrition.

In addition to these amenities, The Lodge At Mills River provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is also available to ensure that residents take their medications correctly and on time. A mental wellness program is offered to support the emotional well-being of residents.

The community encourages an active lifestyle through resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities. This allows residents to engage with one another, form meaningful connections, and stay mentally stimulated. Nearby parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, while pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, and places of worship are conveniently located nearby.

Overall, The Lodge At Mills River offers a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but still want to maintain their independence.

Virtual Tour

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • Ingles Market (1.8 miles)
  • Target Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
  • Ingles Market (4 miles)
  • Ingles Market (4 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (4.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (6.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (8.1 miles)

Parks

  • Westfeldt River Park (2.1 miles)
  • Lake Julian Park (4.3 miles)

Transportation

  • Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) (2.2 miles)

Restaurants

  • Cracker Barrel (2.5 miles)
  • Culver's (2.8 miles)
  • Sierra Nevada Brewing Co (3.1 miles)
  • One Thirty One Main Restaurant (4.2 miles)
  • P.F. Chang's China Bistro (4.3 miles)
  • McDonald's (4.4 miles)
  • Yum Poke Spot (4.5 miles)

Physicians

  • Christi G Hunt MD (4.1 miles)
  • Vein Specialist of Carolina Vascular (4.1 miles)
  • Asheville Medicine & Pediatrics (4.5 miles)
  • Arden Family Health Center (4.7 miles)
  • Asheville Dermatology Center (4.7 miles)
  • Pardee Family Medicine Associates (7.4 miles)
  • Biltmore Plastic Surgery (7.6 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Biltmore Baptist Church (4.4 miles)

Theaters

  • Cinemark (6.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Mission Childrens Hospital (6.7 miles)
  • Mission St Joseph's (8.3 miles)
  • Team Member Pharmacy (9.4 miles)
  • Pardee Hospital - ICU (9.5 miles)
  • Mission Hospital Operating Room (10.6 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (7.3 miles)
  • Pisgah Coffee Roasters (9 miles)
  • Starbucks (9.6 miles)
  • Underground Baking Co. (9.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (9.9 miles)
  • BattleCat Coffee Bar (10.6 miles)

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