Overview
Solheim Senior Community, located at 2236 Merton Avenue in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, CA, is a well-established senior living facility that has been serving seniors since 1923. As a registered 501©3 non-profit organization, Solheim offers a complete continuum of care with various living options designed to meet the changing needs of seniors throughout their retirement years.
Types of Services Offered
Independent Living (Residential Living)
Solheim’s independent living option, referred to as “Residential Living,” provides seniors with a maintenance-free lifestyle while maintaining their independence. This option is ideal for active seniors who are able to handle daily activities on their own but wish to downsize and avoid home maintenance responsibilities.
Key Features:
- Private studio and one-bedroom apartments
- Independent lifestyle with supportive services available
- Community amenities and social activities
- Peace of mind knowing additional care is available if needed
Assisted Living
The Assisted Living program at Solheim provides personalized care for seniors who need some assistance with daily activities while still maintaining as much independence as possible.
Key Features:
- Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Medication management and regular health monitoring
- Three daily meals plus snacks in a social dining environment
- Weekly housekeeping and personal laundry services
- Emergency call systems in each room
- Licensed nurses available around the clock
Memory Care
Solheim’s Memory Care program is specifically designed for residents with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. The program provides a secure, structured environment with specialized staff trained in memory care techniques.
Key Features:
- Secure environment to prevent wandering
- Specialized programs designed for cognitive stimulation
- Staff trained specifically in dementia care
- Structured daily routines to reduce anxiety
- Activities tailored to memory care residents’ abilities and interests
Skilled Nursing Care
Solheim offers the highest level of care through its Skilled Nursing program, which provides 24-hour medical supervision and care for those with significant healthcare needs.
Key Features:
- 24-hour licensed nursing care
- Rehabilitation services (physical, occupational, and speech therapy)
- Post-surgical recovery care
- Long-term custodial care
- Pain management
- IV therapy
- Nutrition and hydration programs
- Restorative nursing
- Stroke rehabilitation and recovery programs
- Joint replacement recovery
Rehabilitation Services
Solheim provides comprehensive rehabilitation services for short-term stays following surgery, illness, or injury. Their rehabilitation team includes physical, occupational, and speech therapists who develop individualized treatment plans.
Key Features:
- Physical therapy for mobility and strength
- Occupational therapy for daily living skills
- Speech therapy
- Stroke recovery programs
- Rapid response team available 24/7 at (323) 219-0212
- Transition planning for return to home
Amenities
Dining Services
- Three nutritious meals daily plus snacks
- Choice of entrees at breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Special diets accommodated as needed
- Social dining experience in communal dining rooms
- In-room dining available as needed
Living Spaces
- Studio and one-bedroom apartment options
- Cable TV provided
- Emergency call systems in each room
- Housekeeping and laundry services (including personal laundry)
- Common areas throughout the campus for socializing
Campus Features
- Garden areas for recreation and relaxation
- Chapel for spiritual services and gatherings
- Senior-focused Wellness Center
- Secure environment with security cameras and patrol service
- Smoke alarms, sprinklers, and fire doors
- Emergency electric generators
- Hand rails throughout the facility
Spiritual Care
- Full-time Chaplain on staff
- Regular worship services (typically Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays, and holidays)
- Spiritual support and counseling
Daily Activities and Programs
Solheim places strong emphasis on keeping residents engaged and active through diverse daily activities and programs:
Physical Activities
- Daily ambulation program
- Wellness Center activities
- Exercise classes tailored to different ability levels
- Walking groups
Social and Recreational Activities
- Live music performances
- Painting classes
- Various games and social gatherings
- Pet companionship programs
- Community outings
- Social events and celebrations
Educational Programs
- Learning opportunities
- Guest speakers
- Skill-building activities
Wellness Programs
- Weekly health clinics offering blood pressure checks, vital signs measurements, and weight checks
- Health education programs
- Preventative care initiatives
Resident Experience and Testimonials
According to reviews found online, Solheim Senior Community receives high marks from residents and their families:
- A Place for Mom rates Solheim Senior Community at 9.8 out of 10 based on 23 reviews, with 75% giving 5-star ratings and 17% giving 4-star ratings.
- Caring.com gives Solheim a 4.4 out of 5 rating based on 11 reviews.
Testimonials highlight several positive aspects:
- One reviewer noted that after moving to Solheim, their great aunt became more social and active, with improved overall health.
- Another volunteer mentioned that Solheim provides exceptional care and companionship, creating one of the “happiest environments” they’ve experienced.
- Multiple reviews comment on the cleanliness of the facility and the friendliness of staff.
- Families of memory care residents specifically praised the compassion and care provided in the memory care neighborhood.
Pricing
Solheim Senior Community’s pricing structure varies based on the level of care needed:
- Independent Living/Residential Living: Starting at approximately $5,290 per month
- Assisted Living: Starting at approximately $5,900 per month for a studio and $8,500 for a one-bedroom apartment
- Memory Care: Pricing is not specifically listed but typically runs higher than standard assisted living due to specialized care
- Skilled Nursing: Varies based on the level of care needed and length of stay
Solheim accepts various payment methods including:
- Private pay
- Medicare (for qualifying short-term stays)
- Private insurance
- Medi-Cal (on a “space available” basis)
Comparison with Other Facilities
When compared to similar senior living communities in the Los Angeles area, Solheim offers several competitive advantages:
Cost Comparison
- Solheim’s starting price of $5,900 for assisted living is competitive compared to:
- Sakura Gardens of Los Angeles: Starting at $3,995
- Atria Park of Pacific Palisades: Starting at $6,595
- Sunrise of Beverly Hills: Starting at $8,269
- Nikkei Senior Gardens by Cogir: Starting at $5,680
Distinctive Features
- Continuum of Care: Unlike some facilities that only offer one or two levels of care, Solheim provides a complete continuum from independent living through skilled nursing, allowing residents to age in place.
- Non-Profit Status: As a registered 501©3 non-profit, Solheim differs from many for-profit senior living chains.
- Life Plan Agreements: Residents with Life Plan agreements receive priority admission to Skilled Nursing when needed.
- On-Site Rehabilitation: Comprehensive rehabilitation services available on the same campus.
- Long-Standing Reputation: Serving seniors since 1923, Solheim has established a strong reputation in the community.
Quality of Care
- Solheim receives high ratings from both A Place for Mom (9.8/10) and Caring.com (4.4/5).
- Solheim is recognized as a “preferred provider” for Glendale Adventist Hospital.
- The facility has received awards including “Best Meals and Dining” and “Best of Senior Living.”
Conclusion
Solheim Senior Community offers a comprehensive approach to senior living with a full spectrum of care options, enabling residents to age in place as their needs change. Their focus on creating a wholesome retirement community is evident in their diverse amenities, activities, and care services.
The combination of quality care, engaging activities, and a supportive environment has earned Solheim high ratings from residents and their families. While pricing is in line with the Los Angeles area market, the non-profit status and comprehensive care options may provide added value for many families.
For seniors seeking a community that can meet both current and future care needs in a supportive, enriching environment, Solheim Senior Community represents a strong option worth considering.
