10 Best Nursing Homes in Deer Lake, PA

Two months ago, my mother was living by herself in a first floor apartment. Things were going pretty good for a while and it took her some time to adjust to the fact that at 72 years old, it was time to retire. She has had 2 major lung surgeries that put her in a rehabilitation hospital for 2-3 weeks each time but seem to be getting through it. However, 2 months ago, she started forgetting things and started to take her medication incorrectly. She had several falls at home and the last one almost did her in. She went to rehab again and it was clear she could not live alone. My sisters and I could not care for her in our houses due to several issues. We found the Villa at St. Elizabeth and they were our savor. We toured the place and talked extensively with the manager about our mother. It was extremely clean, not a spect of dust or dirt anywhere. the place is an old maison with traditional victorian furniture for the residents to enjoy. A quiet sunroom, large living room with a fireplace an dgrand piano, a library with floor to ceiling shelves stocked with book, a beautiful dining room with table cloths and old vistorian panneling. We were there around lunch time and it smelled wonderful. They had a room available within her budget and the admission process was very smooth. After moving Mom in, the staff could not do more for her. They are extremely friendly and always willing to go the extra mile for the residents. The activities offered are endless and there is a ballroom for special activities. It sits on 8 acres of land and I cannot wait to see what it looks like in the spring. It took Mom a little time to get used to the new place, but she has made many new friends and can still go to outside activities herself with the help of the local senior citizen transportation company. I may also add the the chapel is beautiful with padded pew seats. I would recommend this facility highly and they have a web site for more information.

Was a little shocked on admission that they didn't ask more questions to get to know mom. I feel like we had to tell them about her routine rather than them ask the questions. It felt as though they were just going to wing it and I didn't love that feeling after helping my mom with her ADLs for the last few years. I feel as though there could have been a more standardized admission process. No one is not nice, I just felt that initially they were not very outgoing. Aside from Iris, I feel like no one (aside from those who admitted her) introduced themselves right away. I've now learned some people but it's been 4 weeks and I still don't know who is really caring for my mom and the role they play. Now my dad may have a different opinion on this. I think that all of the homes are way over priced and it makes it nearly impossible for anyone to make the decision to move a family member there. If it wouldn't have been for Phoebe's proximity to our home, there is definitely another village we would have moved mom to. Having to pay extra for incontinence products and laundry facilities is absurd when the cost is already nearly $[removed] a day.

I’m happy to provide this review of Berkshire Commons. The facility, staff, and grounds all played a part in our decision to bring Mother. The memory care unit specifically played a large part in our decision, as it’s recognized by the Alzheimer’s Association for dementia care education. Not only are the staff trained to care for residents with the utmost respect and dignity, but they also provide meaningful activities each day for residents to keep them engaged and active to the extent they can be. The personal care plan that is put together for patients, like my mother, allowed her to have access to some of the best care in the area, as well as keeping her safe. The grounds are well maintained and welcoming, and gorgeous in the Spring – Mother’s favorite season. My family and I are grateful for the care, love, and support provided to Mother while our family rested easier knowing she was safe and in excellent care.