Lisa2024-08-16My first impression upon visiting The Cottages was how beautiful the grounds were. Nestled amongst gardens, tree lined paths, with sunny porches that residents were relaxing on, soaking up the sun, it seemed very much like a home not a facility. Inside the 1st of 4 cottages that I toured, I found it to be very clean, fresh smelling, inviting decor almost resort-like. I was immediately welcomed by staff and very impressed by the friendliness, and smiles of all. The executive director was amazing, she really took the time to show me around, and answer any questions I had; her passion for the residents was so very evident. Upon touring the individual rooms, which each have private bathrooms, I was impressed by the cleanliness, attention to safety and privacy that each resident was given. That being said, during my visit I witnessed fun activities that residents are encouraged to attend, to help promote a sense of belonging, socialization and physical exercise which are all very important when considering a home for my loved one. Meeting the medical staff I felt a sense of peace that my loved one will be taken care of and all needs met. The nursing staff was friendly, professional, and attentive. The caregivers were very engaged with the residents and the facility has a staff physician as well as physical therapists to help ensure well rounded care. While leaving, I observed residents in the dining room enjoying a delicious smelling lunch in front of bright, sunny windows with a view of trees and birds. I have been to many facilities and this is one that portrays a warm, safe, home- like environment, one that encourages visits and welcomes participation from family members. I am so very comfortable knowing I can pop in for a lunch with my loved one, visit with on the porch and enjoy fresh air and walks with 100% support from all the staff. I highly encourage you to visit this facility if you are considering, like me, a place for your loved one to experience a high quality environment in this golden chapter of their life.
Betty Halvorson2024-06-11My husband Bob has been there four months and is doing well, getting more involved and when I visit the aides are friendly and interact well with him. He seems to be more settled and really enjoys some of the activities. I’m happy with the care he’s getting.
James Effinger2024-06-07Always active, friendly, communicative, and eager to to be helpful. The Cottages also update families on resident activities, medical alerts, and any other concerning issues. Most importantly, our 99 yr old mom is comfortable and happy there.
Linda Pabich2024-06-05My family are so grateful for each act of kindness and caring shown my Mother at the Cottages of Fox Lake. It is never an easy decision to make a choice for someone to leave their home. We somehow found the best place for Mom. From the executive manager Kristen, memory care and activities Amber, to many nurses who go the extra mile and the special daily care givers there is a sense of really trying and caring that my Mother feels truly cared for. All of the above have been so helpful and supportive in her care. I will never forget witnessing some very happy times created for her . I am grateful for new memories being made with my Mom reminiscing in the rockers on the porch looking at the beautiful grounds watching her grand-dog play.
Dave Beemer2024-05-28What is the single most challenging issue today for memory care? Hiring. Cottages of Fox Lake has cracked the code. I moved my wife in at the beginning of 2024. This is not the same Cottages of Fox Lake that I interviewed in late 2022. The Executive Director has done an extraordinary job of finding the right permanent hire people for the right roles and retaining the best of them. The result is a team that works very well together to help people with extreme challenges to live their best lives. My wife is doing better now, half a year later, than when she moved in, despite having an advanced, progressive condition. That isn't an accident, and it's all about the team. The same gerontologist makes regular visits to the facility and all permanent staff gives a continuity of care and friendship you can't get by primarily using temporary workers. Cottages has the flexibility to bring in temps if needed, I suppose, but I can't remember the last time I met one, and I am there daily. Staff connected her with a physical therapy company appropriate for her medical insurance to work on her mobility. Cottages Staff got to know my wife and always listen carefully as I relay what I've learned over ten years of managing her condition at home. The facility layout also helps quite a bit. Instead of many people in one building, the four-building approach keeps people who need similar care approaches together, and there are less people in each building to care for. My wife has about 15 housemates, and they're good to each other. You won't find better care, particularly not at the price. I interviewed ten facilities in the area to find that out. They have two spaces left in memory care as of last week, the end of May 2024, and five spaces in Assisted Living. My best advice if you've found that your loved one needs more help than you can give is to talk to Cottages to work out a plan to move them in.
Heather McGovern2024-05-20My loved one has been living at The Cottages of Fox Lake for nearly 5 years. The environment has the cozy feeling of home and we feel comfortable he is receiving great care there. I echo a previous reviewer that staff feels like extended family.
BOB HAYNES2024-05-14We have nothing but good to say about The Cottages in Fox Lake💥 The complete staff are awesomely friendly and helpful, always a smile and greeting. Everything is clean, the food is great and the resident care is top notch‼️ You can trust your loved one will be taken great care of here.
Christina Ayres2024-03-28I work for the cottages as a care giver and I am happy to be part of such a great team. From the caregivers that do so much for the residents in the community to the the fantastic management team. It feels more like a home. Going to work and seeing the smiles on the residents faces mean so much. I am happy to be part of this team.