River Valley Rest Home

I give the place 4 stars - because of the people that live there and the administration who have a real heart and compassion - also the accessible residential neighborhood and an 8 minute walk to beautiful downtown Florence - and all it has to offer. True many people smoke - in designated areas - so it's not appropriate for everyone. It is a 150 year old mansion - with all of the difficulties that that come with that. It does need more TLC - but the administration is making an effort. On the up side, the building feels more like a REAL HOME and not an institution. People look out for each other and are very respectful. It has a real family atmosphere - and with all of its imperfections- for my family member who is a resident - that made all of the difference in the world. River Valle

4 years ago we placed my father here and I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised with how far they've come. In just this past year ownership has done thousands of dollars in renovations, hired noticeably better staff and have significantly lifted their standard of care. When we first placed him here I would not have recommended this place to my worst enemy. Fast forward to now, I feel we got lucky especially when compared to the condition of some of the other facilities in the area.

After one month there, I doubted its value or utility. Cooley Dickinson had twisted my arm to stay there after I was in the hospital for a minor heart attack. After two months there, I was sure that I was being ripped off, and the cost was such that I could no longer consider renting anything else. The rent includes meals, but there is no adjustment for meals not eaten there. Some medical services are also included, but it one does not need those services, then it is money wasted. If someone is minimally mobile, then it might be a reasonable place, but for someone like me who is quite mobile and out and about most days, the place is not useful. In addition to the cost, some of the residents have problems with bowel control, and the plumbing system is subnormal, so showers every morning are