Introduction

Cumberland Crossing Manor, located at 1201 Cumberland Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, is a distinguished assisted living facility that has been serving the Pittsburgh community since 2000. As part of the UPMC Senior Communities network, this facility offers a unique blend of high-quality senior care and the backing of a world-renowned healthcare system. This comprehensive review will delve into the facility’s services, amenities, resident experiences, and market position to provide potential residents and their families with valuable insights for making an informed decision about senior living in Pittsburgh.

Facility Overview and Location

Cumberland Crossing Manor is strategically situated in Pittsburgh’s North Hills area, offering residents a perfect balance of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. Its location provides several advantages:

1. Proximity to UPMC Passavant hospital, ensuring quick access to advanced medical care
2. Easy access to shopping centers and restaurants in the North Hills area
3. Nearby parks and recreational areas for outdoor activities

The facility’s affiliation with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) adds a layer of credibility and assurance regarding the quality of care provided.

Care Services and Living Options

Cumberland Crossing Manor specializes in assisted living services, with a focus on supporting seniors who require assistance with daily activities while maintaining a sense of independence. The facility offers:

1. Assisted Living: Personalized support with daily activities
2. Memory Care: Specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
3. Medication Management: Assistance with prescribed medications
4. Personal Care: Help with bathing, dressing, and grooming
5. 24/7 Staff Availability: Round-the-clock care and support

The living arrangements at Cumberland Crossing Manor are designed to provide a home-like environment:

• Studio apartments
• One-bedroom apartments (availability may vary)

Each living space is equipped with essential amenities to ensure comfort and safety, including emergency call systems and private bathrooms.

Amenities and Lifestyle

Cumberland Crossing Manor offers a wide range of amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents:

1. Dining:
   • Restaurant-style dining room on the 14th floor with stunning views of Central Park and the Harlem Meer
   • Guest meal options for visiting family and friends
   • Snacks available throughout the day
2. Recreation and Social Activities:
   • Comprehensive activities program
   • Facilitated field trips and outings
   • On-site entertainment and educational programs
3. Wellness and Fitness:
   • Fitness and rehabilitation services
   • Health and wellness activities
4. Convenience Services:
   • Housekeeping
   • Laundry and linen services
   • General transportation services for medical appointments and outings
5. Outdoor Spaces:
   • Beautifully landscaped courtyards for relaxation and social gatherings
6. Additional Amenities:
   • Cable/Satellite TV in common areas
   • Wi-Fi/Internet access throughout the community
   • On-site salon services

The facility’s commitment to providing a vibrant community life is evident in its diverse activity offerings and efforts to keep residents engaged and connected to the broader Pittsburgh community.

Resident Experiences and Reviews

Based on available reviews, Cumberland Crossing Manor has received generally positive feedback, with an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars based on 4 reviews. Here’s a breakdown of the ratings:

• 5-star reviews: 67%
• 1-star reviews: 33%

Key highlights from positive reviews include:

1. Cleanliness of the facility
2. Friendly and attentive staff
3. Variety of engaging activities
4. Safe and secure environment

One resident’s family member shared: “Cumberland Crossing is a place that’s been around for quite a while. It’s run by University of Pittsburgh. It’s part of their hospital, UPMC. It’s a very nice place. Everything I’ve heard about it is good. I’ve had friends that were there, but it’s too expensive. It’s an older facility, but it’s very nice and kept up.”

However, it’s important to note that there have been some concerns raised, particularly regarding care during the COVID-19 pandemic. This underscores the importance of thorough research and in-person visits when considering any senior living facility.

Pricing and Value

Cumberland Crossing Manor’s pricing structure is as follows:

• Studio apartments: Starting at $7,750/month

While specific pricing for one-bedroom apartments is not available, it’s common for larger units to be priced higher than studios.

To put these prices in context, let’s compare them with some local competitors:

1. Atria West 86: Studios starting at $7,300/month
2. Sunrise at East 56th: Studios starting at $14,022/month

Cumberland Crossing Manor’s pricing appears to be competitive within the local market, especially considering its UPMC affiliation and the range of services offered. However, it’s important to note that pricing can vary based on the level of care required and specific apartment features.

Unique Features and Selling Points

Several aspects set Cumberland Crossing Manor apart from competitors:

1. UPMC Affiliation: The facility’s connection to the UPMC healthcare system provides residents with access to high-quality medical resources and expertise. This can be particularly reassuring for seniors with ongoing health concerns.
2. Continuum of Care: By offering both assisted living and memory care services, Cumberland Crossing Manor allows residents to age in place as their needs change. This can significantly reduce the stress associated with moving to a new facility if care needs increase.
3. Prime Location: The North Hills location offers a balance of suburban living with easy access to urban amenities and healthcare facilities. This can be appealing to seniors who want to maintain an active lifestyle while having the peace of mind of nearby medical services.
4. Dining Experience: The 14th-floor dining room with views of Central Park and the Harlem Meer offers a unique dining experience that many competitors can’t match. This feature can significantly enhance residents’ daily enjoyment and social interactions.
5. Transportation Services: The facility’s transportation services for medical appointments and various outings enhance residents’ independence and access to community resources. This can be particularly valuable for seniors who no longer drive.

Recommendations for Prospective Residents and Families

1. Schedule an In-Person Visit: Given the mixed reviews and the importance of atmosphere in a senior living facility, an in-person tour is crucial. This will allow you to experience the ambiance, meet the staff, and get a feel for the community firsthand.
2. Inquire About COVID-19 Protocols: In light of past concerns, ask detailed questions about current health and safety measures, visitation policies, and emergency preparedness plans.
3. Participate in a Meal or Activity: If possible, arrange to join a meal in the 14th-floor dining room or participate in an activity. This will give you a better sense of the day-to-day experience and the opportunity to interact with current residents.
4. Review the Care Assessment Process: Understand how Cumberland Crossing Manor assesses and monitors residents’ care needs, especially if you anticipate needing memory care services in the future.
5. Clarify All Costs: Request a detailed breakdown of all fees, including base rent, care services, and any additional charges for amenities or activities.
6. Explore Financial Assistance Options: Inquire about any financial assistance programs or sliding scale fees that may be available, given the facility’s affiliation with UPMC.
7. Investigate Staff Training and Ratios: Ask about the training programs for staff, particularly in areas like memory care and medication management. Also, inquire about staff-to-resident ratios during different times of the day.

Conclusion

Cumberland Crossing Manor offers a comprehensive assisted living experience with the added benefit of UPMC’s healthcare expertise. Its range of services, amenities, and unique features, such as the 14th-floor dining room with panoramic views, position it as a strong contender in the Pittsburgh senior living market.

The facility’s commitment to providing a continuum of care, from assisted living to memory care, makes it an attractive option for seniors who want to age in place. The UPMC affiliation adds an extra layer of credibility and potentially easier access to high-quality healthcare services.

However, the limited number of reviews and some concerns about pandemic-era care underscore the importance of thorough research and in-person visits. Prospective residents and their families should carefully consider their specific needs, preferences, and budget when evaluating Cumberland Crossing Manor.

For seniors seeking a balance of independence and support, backed by the resources of a major healthcare system, Cumberland Crossing Manor presents a compelling option in the Pittsburgh area. Its blend of location, amenities, and care services make it worth serious consideration for those exploring senior living options in the region.