I had an in-person tour of Pico Rivera Health Care Center. I did not like it because it seemed like the residents were not able to get out. If I wanted to visit my mom or bring her to my house on the weekend, that was not an option. We would have to make an appointment a month ahead. It almost made me feel like they had to prep her before we could see her. They had an activity room. I walked around the facility to see the rooms, and most patients were in wheelchairs. They looked kind of depressed. The staff was friendly, but the gentleman giving me the tour was more concentrated on filling the bed. My concern was that if my mom would be hearing things or up all night and talking to the TV or whatever she's doing, his comment was that wouldn't happen. And then, as we went on with the tour, he mentioned that they had a patient that was like that and would go around singing. It got to the point where they had to get him out of the facility and put him into a locked-down facility where they could monitor him. So basically, they just lock them up. The facility was not that great.

I was very suprised to see all of the residents dressed and groomed, up and about as I was walking down the hall to visit my relative. The nursing staff was friendly and seemed to have real feelings and genuine concern about all of the residents. My relative introduced me to the staff doctor, dietician, and nurse on duty. Each one knew my relative by name and was very friendly. My relative is a picky eater and they allow her to "change or exchange" anything she doesn't like on the day's menu! The residents have a beautiful patio in the middle of the facility to enjoy. There was even a Cinco de Mayo celebration put on by the staff for the residents. My relative's roommate has transferred to other facilities in Northern California and Nevada, but ultimately ended up back at Pico Rivera Healthcare because it is far better than the other ones she was at. I think this is great environment for my relative and I am happy that she is happy!