Brookdale Santa Barbara

Our previously independent 99 year old grandmother’s cognitive health took a sudden turn around Thanksgiving of 2024. We had to make quick decisions about finding a memory care home that could support her needs. We were overwhelmed and unsure if it was better to keep her in North Carolina where she had always lived or move her to Florida to be near us. Since she had always been healthy and independent, it was difficult to know how she would adjust to a sudden change. She was not connected to any health resources and the wait to get established with even a primary care physician would be months that we did not have. Not knowing where to turn, we called A Place for Mom for assistance. They were wonderful. They talked us through options in both North Carolina and Florida. As soon as they told us about Brookdale Santa Barbara in Cape Coral Florida, we knew in our hearts we had found our place. Even their rep was astonished with the facility description and reviews. She said “Wow! I see a lot of facilities and this is incredible.” Boy was she right. Within 24 hours we met Adam from Brookdale Santa Barbara. His warm, caring personality confirmed that we were looking in the right direction. Since we were over 10 hours away with Grandma, we took a virtual tour. Grandma was excited that the home was so clean, beautiful and everyone was so nice. We were excited that it was small (only room for 38 residents) and caring. Their reviews were inspiring and they were recently recognized for their award winning care. We were happy to learn that 75% of their families participated in their loved ones care, many staying to visit or volunteer after they loved ones passed on due to the wonderful relationships they experienced. The fact that they operate with a Montessori approach to care encouraging everyone to make their own decisions when possible and respecting their choices was exciting. We had two days to drive Grandmas personal things down and get her room set up before flying her down to meet us. Adam understood our tight timeframe and not only had loaner furniture waiting for us, he had a gift basket for Grandma with some of favorite things to make her feel at home. It was heartwarming. The transition was daunting for us. I found myself crying in her room before she arrived scared that she would not adjust, worrying I had not made the right decision to move her. The facility director, Stephanie was nothing shy of amazing. She provided the comfort and assurance that made us confident that Brookdale Santa Barbara was exactly where we wanted and needed to be. “Above and beyond” does not begin to adequately describe her and Adam’s level of service. Their entire team, and I mean ENTIRE team jumped right in and made Grandmas room and her welcome arrival nothing shy of PERFECT. She blushed and felt like a queen. I can not say enough great things about our time so far. The entire team touches your heart on a daily basis. We visit every day and every day my heart is filled with Gratitude. Everyday Grandma tells me how nice everyone is, how good they are to her and how much she likes it here. The facility environment is always clean and inviting and the staff is absolutely wonderful. The nursing and care team keeps us constantly informed even though Grandma does not take medication and does not need medical assistance, they are right on top of how she is and what she needs daily. The personal care attendants are so loving, patient and kind with every single resident. They truly feel like family. The chef and kitchen team are remarkable. The food is surprisingly GREAT! When Grandma was not eating the first day, the Chef wanted to know what her favorite foods were so he could make sure he was making things she would personally like. The attendants were equally concerned and all learned that they just needed to remind her that she did not have to have money, that it was all free (she thought she was at a fancy restaurant and that she did not have her purse to pay the bill for such a nice experience).

We are so grateful and pleased with the high level of competent, loving care that our mom receives from the entire staff at Brookdale. We know that she is well cared for, safe and content. The medical staff has her diabetes under control, something mom has struggled with for 20 years.

I was extremely satisfied with the care my mother received. She consistently had a smile on her face, and her cleanliness was always maintained. They ensured she was eating properly. The staff was incredibly kind, familiar with her name, preferences, and dislikes, which gave me confidence that she was in good hands. I lived close by and visited frequently.

A lying nurse’s behavior requires disciplinary action, as it violates ethical and professional standards, and it can harm patients and the organization.

I had the pleasure of interacting with Elaine, and I can’t speak highly enough of her. She is incredibly attentive and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure a positive experience. Her sweetness and genuine care make every interaction feel special and personalized. If you’re looking for someone who truly values and understands the needs of others, Elaine is the one to go to. Highly recommended!