Willowcrest Health Services

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  • Interior

    A cozy living room with comfortable furniture, a decorative clock, and a potted plant.

  • Decor

    A cozy bedroom featuring a bed, decorative plants, and natural light.

  • Building

    A modern commercial building surrounded by greenery and clear blue skies.

  • Bedroom

    A cozy bedroom featuring a large window with a view, neatly made bed, and decorative touches.

  • Trees

    A serene park scene featuring a gazebo surrounded by lush greenery.

  • Outdoor

    A view of a hotel entrance in the evening, featuring parked cars and a cloudy sky.

  • Exercise Equipment

    A well-equipped exercise area featuring various fitness machines in blue and white.

  • Waiting Area

    A clean and modern reception area in a hospital.

  • Refrigerator

    A cozy living space featuring a bed, sofa, dining table with chairs, and a refrigerator.

  • Rehabilitation

    An elderly woman participates in a rehabilitation exercise with the assistance of a therapist.

Willowcrest Health Services

3821 South Chicago Avenue, South Milwaukee, WI 53172

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

2.5 from 49 reviews
5 stars
16
4 stars
3
3 stars
0
2 stars
2
1 stars
28

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Willowcrest Health Services

Pros

  • pro The staff at Willowcrest are described as exceptionally fine and helpful.
  • pro Sara and Clarissa at the front counter are consistently helpful and arrange needed accommodations.
  • pro Kim in the financial office is regarded as good-hearted and very supportive to the mom.
  • pro Elizabeth the social worker is part of a strong, supportive Willowcrest team.
  • pro Jules, Noah, and the second-shift nurse Nellie are highlighted as caring and dedicated staff.
  • pro The reviewer would recommend Willowcrest to friends, praising the wonderful staff.
  • pro Willowcrest has the best staff and the food is actually edible.
  • pro The East unit staff are great, with thanks noted to Sam D.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer describes the rehab facility as a "puppy mill" of rehab centers and says conditions worsened after admission.
  • pro The smells are described as putrid and the place as a petri dish.
  • pro The reviewer suggests administrators should have to eat a week's worth of the kitchen's meals, noting the food is uncooked, gray, and disgusting.
  • pro There are reports of significant delays in care, with call lights often unanswered and bathroom needs unmet.
  • pro One account claims dehydration, UTIs, and bedsores resulted from the lack of timely care.
  • pro Staff are described as inattentive, not paying attention to residents, and seeming not to know what is going on.
  • pro The facility is described as a zero-star place and is advised not to place a loved one there.
  • pro A specific narrative recounts neglect on Day 14, with prolonged delays in care and staff not addressing concerns.

Review

Willowcrest Health Services inspires a wide range of experiences among the families and loved ones who navigate its halls. On one hand, there is a chorus of gratitude for the people at the front line: Sara and Clarissa at the front counter are repeatedly described as consistently helpful, patient, and willing to go the extra mile to make arrangements - whether it's borrowing a wheelchair, coordinating showers for special occasions, or tracking down important items like mom's glasses or dentures. The support extends beyond the reception desk to involved social work: Elizabeth, a family's social worker, is noted for her role in coordinating care and planning. Kim in the financial office is singled out as well, with a story about a mom who feels a connection - Kim is said to be kind, good-hearted, and reliable, even joking about shared school memories. The sense of teamwork continues with other staff named in praise: Jules, Noah, and a second-shift nurse who is affectionately called Nellie by the family. The overall impression from these voices is that Willowcrest can be a place where dedicated employees form meaningful connections with residents and their families, making daily life more manageable and less stressful.

Several reviews highlight the positive, practical impact of staff across the campus. A voice from a spouse who has had his partner living there since September 2024 stresses that Willowcrest stands out among several facilities tried before. The reviewer acknowledges that health care isn't perfect everywhere, but they emphasize patience, responsiveness, and a philosophy that every resident's needs are important. The suggestion to prospective families is simple but meaningful: take a tour, talk with the staff, and listen to residents. In these accounts, the staff's attentiveness - especially in terms of coordinating daily routines, medical care, and social support - matters a great deal to families trying to navigate the transition to rehab or long-term care.

Alongside these commendations, there are sharp, vivid criticisms that paint a very different picture. A number of reviewers describe Willowcrest as a "puppy mill of rehab centers" and accuse the facility of neglect, particularly in the care of the elderly. One account uses a powerful phrase about the place serving as a less-than-ideal environment for recuperation after a hospital stay, highlighting experiences such as delayed responses to urgent needs (bedpan requests, bathroom assistance) and poor communication among staff. Another reviewer claims their loved one contracted norovirus there and implies the facility was more focused on intake than on ensuring safety and health, framing the environment as something residents should be wary of. Odors are described as putrid, and the facility is labeled a "petri dish," with a strong call for visitors to mask up and to be cautious about cleanliness. The critique extends to the kitchen, where the food is described as "disgusting" and "uncooked, gray," with a suggestion that administrators should try the meals themselves to understand what residents are experiencing. Some accounts recount long delays in basic care tasks, such as getting water, assistance, or timely bed transfers, along with reports of families needing to bring in food that was more palatable for their loved ones.

Amid the harsh critiques, there are also more measured or even contradictory notes about Willowcrest. One caregiver asserts that there are "highly responsive, professional and caring" staff who do difficult work, and they commend the food as nutritious when it is prepared to meet individual needs. In another voice, a different reviewer credits specific staff on the East wing, expressing appreciation for the care provided by those who stood out to them - "The staff on East is great! Thanks a lot Sam D." This variance underscores a broader reality in long-term care: experiences can differ dramatically by unit, shift, and individual interactions, as well as by who is providing care on a given day. It also hints at a larger conversation about consistency in service, quality of meals, and attention to residents' hydration and hygiene.

There are several detailed, day-by-day narratives that add texture to the overall impression. One account describes a sequence over multiple days where a resident's needs were not consistently met - no timely help for bathroom needs, delays in calls being answered, and staff who seemed distracted or unavailable. Another account recounts a family meeting with leadership to address ongoing concerns, followed by reports of dehydration, a urinary tract infection, and bedsores - outcomes that prompted a decision to move the patient out of Willowcrest. Another review contains a blunt, emotional warning to others: "The place SUCKS? ZERO Star place," recounting experiences of dehydration, lack of water, and insufficient care over an extended period. These narratives emphasize the seriousness of the care gaps some families experienced and highlight how such experiences can shape perceptions of the facility as a whole.

Taken together, Willowcrest Health Services emerges as a place of strong contrasts. For many families, the staff's kindness, willingness to accommodate personal needs, and reliable contacts who understand the residents' histories form a core part of what makes Willowcrest feel like a supportive environment. For others, the setting is a source of grave concern - marked by allegations of neglect, subpar food quality, inadequate hydration, slow responses to emergencies, and significant lapses in communication. The breadth of experiences suggests that outcomes at Willowcrest can depend heavily on individual staff members, the specific unit, and the day-to-day realities of an often demanding care environment. For anyone considering Willowcrest, these testimonials underscore the importance of tours, direct conversations with both staff and residents, and a candid assessment of what matters most for a loved one's safety, dignity, and daily quality of life.

Features

Housing

  • 135 resident community capacity 135 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

  • General Mitchell International (4 miles away) General Mitchell International (4 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

Willowcrest Health Services in South Milwaukee, WI is an 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 features a beauty salon where residents can indulge in some pampering, as well as cable or satellite TV for entertainment.

Transportation is readily available with community-operated transportation, as well as transportation arrangements for non-medical purposes and doctors' appointments. Residents can also enjoy a computer center and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access for staying connected with loved ones or pursuing personal interests.

The community boasts a fitness room and wellness center to cater to the physical health needs of its residents. Outdoor spaces are available for leisurely walks and enjoying nature, while a gaming room and small library offer opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Dining at Willowcrest Health Services is exceptional, with restaurant-style dining providing delicious meals prepared with special dietary restrictions in mind. Additionally, meal preparation and service are provided to assist residents who may need help with their daily nutrition.

Residents benefit from 24-hour call system and supervision, ensuring assistance is always available when needed. Care services include activities of daily living assistance such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is also available to ensure proper administration of medications.

Mental wellness programs are offered to support the emotional well-being of residents. A variety of activities are planned throughout the day to keep residents engaged, including fitness programs, resident-run activities, and scheduled daily activities. Planned day trips provide opportunities for exploration outside the community.

Willowcrest Health Services is conveniently located near parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals—providing easy access to essential services and entertainment options for residents.

Overall, Willowcrest Health Services offers a comfortable and caring environment where seniors can enjoy independence while receiving top-notch care and access to various amenities that enhance their quality of life.

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.5 miles)
  • Pick 'n Save Pharmacy (2.4 miles)
  • Meijer Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.2 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.8 miles)

Restaurants

  • Subway (2.3 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.5 miles)
  • Culver's (2.6 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (2.6 miles)
  • McDonald's (3.8 miles)
  • Papa Luigi's (4.5 miles)
  • The Landing (4.6 miles)

Parks

  • Runway Dog Exercise Area (2.7 miles)
  • South Shore Park (7 miles)
  • Humboldt Park (7 miles)
  • Paliafito Park (9.2 miles)
  • Henry Maier Festival Park (9.4 miles)

Physicians

  • Aurora Health Care (2.8 miles)
  • Innovative Pain Care (4.9 miles)
  • Rheumatology & Immunotherapy (5.7 miles)
  • Layton Avenue Dermatolgy Clinic (6.4 miles)
  • Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Center (6.4 miles)
  • Greendale Health Center (7.1 miles)
  • Aurora Health Care (7.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Froedert Drexel Square Clinic (3 miles)
  • Aurora St Luke's South Shore (3 miles)
  • Aurora St Luke's Medical Center (7.9 miles)

Theaters

  • South Shore Cinema Oak Creek, Wi (3.8 miles)

Transportation

  • MKE Runway (4 miles)
  • Concourse D (4.1 miles)
  • Delta Ticket Counter (4.2 miles)
  • Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) (4.2 miles)
  • Security Checkpoint (4.3 miles)
  • Concourse C (4.3 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Stephen's Catholic Church (4.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Hawthorne Coffee Roasters (5.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.1 miles)
  • Colectivo Coffee (7.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (8.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (9.8 miles)

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