Pricing ranges from
    $1,699 – 3,649/month

    Mallard Point Senior Living

    2603 Orchard Dr, Cedar Falls, IA, 50613
    • Independent living
    • Assisted living
    AnonymousLoved one of resident
    3.0

    Friendly staff costly inconsistent management

    I toured and was impressed by friendly, helpful staff, a clean, mansion-like campus, three meals a day, weekly housekeeping, active programming and on-site salon - Jennifer and Darnel stood out. It's ideal for independent, low-care seniors who want social life, transportation and amenities, but not for anyone needing 24-hour, memory or medical care (medication admin is external). My chief concerns were high cost, management problems (rude leadership, HIPAA lapses, service interruptions) and staff turnover/food inconsistency. I liked it overall but would only recommend after getting clear answers on fees, care limits and management.

    Pricing

    $1,699+/moStudioIndependent Living
    $2,319+/mo1 BedroomIndependent Living
    $3,649+/mo2 BedroomIndependent Living

    Schedule a Tour

    Amenities

    Healthcare services

    • Assistance with dressing
    • Hospice waiver
    • Medication management
    • Mental wellness program

    Healthcare staffing

    • 24-hour call system

    Meals and dining

    • Meal preparation and service

    Room

    • Air-conditioning
    • Cable
    • Fully furnished
    • Housekeeping and linen services
    • Internet
    • Kitchenettes
    • Private bathrooms
    • Telephone
    • Wifi

    Transportation

    • Community operated transportation
    • Transportation arrangement

    Common areas

    • Beauty salon
    • Computer center
    • Dining room
    • Fitness room
    • Gaming room
    • Garden
    • Outdoor patio
    • Outdoor space
    • Pet friendly
    • Small library
    • Wellness center

    Community services

    • Concierge services
    • Fitness programs
    • Move-in coordination

    Activities

    • Community-sponsored activities
    • Planned day trips
    • Resident-run activities
    • Scheduled daily activities

    4.37 · 126 reviews

    Overall rating

    1. 5
    2. 4
    3. 3
    4. 2
    5. 1
    • Care

      4.5
    • Staff

      4.5
    • Meals

      3.8
    • Amenities

      4.0
    • Value

      3.8

    Pros

    • Friendly, compassionate and attentive staff
    • Strong, personable administration and sales team
    • Safe, secure and well-maintained campus
    • Active, social community with robust activities calendar
    • Three balanced meals provided daily (dining service included)
    • Weekly housekeeping and routine apartment cleaning
    • Scheduled transportation/shuttle service for shopping and appointments
    • On-site amenities: beauty salon, library, chapel, laundry, exercise room
    • On-site physical therapy and some clinical support services available
    • Variety of floor plans and cottage options (studios to multi-room)
    • Balconies and nature views in many apartments
    • All-inclusive monthly billing / rent lock options
    • Guest rooms available for visiting family
    • Welcoming ambassadors/committees and strong move-in support
    • Engaging Activities Director and new activity programming
    • Quiet, residential neighborhood location
    • Good cleanliness and housekeeping reputation overall
    • Many reviewers report good value for independent living needs
    • Responsive staff and management (in many reports)
    • Amenities for social games and recreation (bingo, pool, art, card games)

    Cons

    • Mixed and inconsistent food quality; some report cold, small or poor portions
    • Reports of high staff turnover and reliance on younger/inexperienced staff
    • Ownership/management changes creating uncertainty (Mallard → Arrow)
    • Some reports of poor managerial behavior: rudeness, secrecy, HIPAA concerns
    • Not suitable for residents who need memory care or 24-hour medical assistance
    • Medication administration typically handled by external provider and may cost extra
    • Parking limited and one small elevator can become crowded
    • Occasional maintenance/service problems cited (e.g., missing freight elevator)
    • A few serious incident reports: bedbugs and pest problems mentioned
    • Some residents report declining or insufficient activity offerings
    • Internet/TV or other services reportedly cut off in some management transitions
    • Pressure sales tactics reported by some prospective residents
    • Some units have limited appliances/amenities (small fridge/sink only)
    • Hallway scooters and mobility devices can create hazards in tight spaces
    • Guest room or some facility areas described as disappointing by some reviewers
    • Mixed opinions on price/value — some call it overpriced
    • Inconsistent responsiveness in some reviews (phones, management unresponsive)
    • Concerns about food program changes following ownership change
    • Laundry/dryer complaints (wrinkling) and minor housekeeping issues
    • Limited to weekday transportation (bus service five days a week)

    Summary review

    Overall sentiment: The aggregated reviews portray Mallard Point Senior Living primarily as a well-regarded independent living community that excels at social engagement, hospitality, and basic campus amenities. A clear majority of reviewers praise the staff—describing them as friendly, compassionate, attentive, and often remembering residents by name—and highlight a welcoming, social culture with many activities and opportunities for connection. Many families report smooth transitions for new residents, and the campus is frequently described as clean, safe, and well maintained. The community appeals strongly to independent seniors with low-care needs who value convenience (meals, housekeeping, transportation) and social programming.

    Staff and administration: Staffing and management receive mostly positive mentions. Reviewers consistently compliment the front-line staff, activities team, maintenance crews, and specific administrators or sales representatives by name (e.g., Amber and other praised employees). Many comments emphasize responsiveness, helpfulness during move-ins, and proactive communication—particularly in the first 90 days. At the same time, there are clusters of negative reports tied to managerial changes and isolated incidents: some reviewers allege poor managerial behavior (rudeness, HIPAA concerns), unresponsiveness, or service cuts. Ownership transition from Mallard to Arrow is specifically noted as a source of uncertainty; reviewers mention an impending new food program and some operational changes that have caused concern.

    Dining and food service: Dining is a prominent and polarizing theme. Numerous reviews praise three balanced meals daily, chef’s specialties, pleasant dining rooms, desserts, and overall convenience of included meal service. Conversely, a significant number of reviews call out inconsistent or declining food quality—complaints include cold food, small portions, repetitive menus (e.g., frequent grilled cheese), cheap entrée ingredients, sparse vegetable servings, and missing condiments. Ownership change and a new food program are cited by some reviewers as the cause of recent or anticipated changes. Overall, while many residents enjoy the dining experience, prospective residents should sample meals and ask specifics about recent changes in food service.

    Activities and social life: One of Mallard Point’s strongest selling points is its active social calendar. Reviews highlight a broad range of activities (art projects, Bingo, putt-putt, pool tables, card games, Bible study, exercise classes, entertainment nights) and a highly engaged Activities Director who introduces new programming. Many reviewers report high participation and describe the community as sociable and lively. A minority, however, find the activities “lame” or note a recent decline in offerings—this appears to correlate with reports of staff turnover or management transition in some instances.

    Facilities, apartments and amenities: Reviewers describe apartments and cottages as spacious, bright, and comfortable, with multiple floor plans, balconies, and attractive common areas. On-site amenities commonly cited are a beauty salon, library, chapel, laundry, exercise room, and accessibility-friendly layouts. Weekly housekeeping, included utilities, rent lock features, guest rooms, and a travel plan benefit are seen as conveniences. Areas for improvement mentioned across reviews include limited parking, a single small elevator (which leads to crowding), lack of a freight elevator (making moves difficult), occasional maintenance oversights, and some units with minimal appliance setups. A few reviewers reported pest issues (bedbugs) and insect swarms at certain times, so pest management history is a recommended area to check during a tour.

    Care level and medical services: Mallard Point is repeatedly characterized as an independent living community—not a assisted living or memory care facility. Reviews repeatedly emphasize that it is best for residents with low-care needs: there is no 24-hour nursing, no routine medication administration included (those services are typically provided by an external company at additional cost), and memory-care services are not available on-site. For families seeking higher levels of clinical care, Mallard Point would not meet those needs without outside providers.

    Management, ownership change and reliability concerns: While many reviews praise current administrators and the general staff, several significant negative patterns appear tied to management transitions and turnover. Multiple reviewers cite an ownership change (Mallard → Arrow) with subsequent service adjustments, food program overhauls, and in a few cases abrupt service interruptions (reports of TV/internet being cut off without notice and unresponsive phone lines). A small but vocal set of reviewers reports serious grievances (accusations of secrecy, rude management behavior, potential legal concerns). These are not the majority view, but they are repeated enough to warrant careful vetting by prospective residents and families: ask for recent staff turnover statistics, written service guarantees, and clarifications about utility/entertainment/service continuity.

    Value and pricing: Opinions on price and value are mixed. Many reviewers feel Mallard Point offers strong value for independent living—especially given included meals, housekeeping, transportation, and the social atmosphere—and they praise rent-lock options and all-inclusive billing. Other reviewers call the community expensive or overpriced and flag additional charges (medication administration by external providers, chair rentals billed by short increments) and occasional quality shortcomings as diminishing value. The reported price range in reviews is roughly $1,500–$3,000; as always, prospective residents should obtain a full, itemized fee schedule.

    Notable risks and red flags: A few isolated but serious issues mentioned across reviews deserve attention: bedbug reports, abrupt service cuts (TV/internet), and allegations of managerial misconduct. Several reviewers also describe inconsistent food quality and high staff turnover that together can degrade resident experience. These issues appear uneven—some locations/times are spotless and well-run while others experienced significant problems—so verify current conditions during an in-person visit and speak to multiple current residents and families.

    Who this community fits best and recommendations for prospects: Mallard Point is best suited to independent, socially active seniors who want a maintenance-free lifestyle with included meals, housekeeping, transportation and a busy activities program. It’s particularly appealing to those who prioritize friendly staff, a communal atmosphere, and on-site amenities like a salon and chapel. It is not appropriate for people who require 24-hour care, memory support, or integrated medication administration without contracting outside services.

    Practical suggestions for anyone touring or considering Mallard Point: sample meals at different times, ask specifically about recent and planned changes from the Arrow ownership transition, request pest-control logs, inquire about staffing retention and turnover rates, confirm which services cost extra (medication administration, chair rentals, guest room fees), check elevator and moving logistics if the resident uses mobility devices, and speak with current residents about everyday life and recent changes. If the community’s strengths (staff warmth, activities, included services) align with your priorities, Mallard Point offers a strong option for independent living—just do focused due diligence on dining, management stability, and any specific service needs before committing.

    Location

    Map showing location of Mallard Point Senior Living

    About Mallard Point Senior Living

    Mallard Point Senior Living sits in a quiet spot with small town charm and a warm, close-knit feel, and residents get to come and go as they please and even invite their own home care agencies to make life fit their own needs, so if someone wants to bring in outside help, that's no trouble. The place is well-known for affordability and has picked up awards for its senior housing community, and being part of the Holiday Retirement group means residents can use a travel program to visit any of the 300 sister locations for up to seven nights, so folks who like change can give new places a try. People here can pick from different living options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, or even skilled nursing in a licensed facility for those who need more help, and the staff tries to be both compassionate and attentive.

    The main building looks inviting with bay windows, a covered entryway, and landscaped lawns, and inside, the community feels lively but homey, with well-furnished apartments, studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts, plus places like the library, chapel, activity room, and lounge with big TVs and comfy chairs, and an on-site beauty salon adds to the list, with styling chairs, dryers, and places for manicures. Apartments are designed for ease, offering walk-in tubs, safety rails in bathrooms, individual climate controls, and both full kitchens and kitchenettes, so folks can prepare their own meals or eat at The Sturgis Restaurant, which serves over 50 different menu options from 7:00 in the morning until 7:00 at night, and private dining rooms or resident kitchens are available for when family visits or for sharing a meal with friends.

    Mallard Point aims to be as barrier-free as possible, so people with mobility concerns can get around, and there are elevators, Wi-Fi throughout the community, parking lots and garages, and laundry facilities on site, with weekly housekeeping and regular linen service to keep things tidy, and the basic bills like electric, gas, water, sewer, and cable are included, so surprises are few and far between in the mailbox. The staff encourages independence, but daily support for things like bathing, dressing, or medication management is available, and home care aides can offer more help or simple companionship when needed, plus friendly staff handle chores and maintenance so residents can focus on things they like, like playing billiards, enjoying a movie, joining a coloring group, worship in the chapel, or joining a coffee chat.

    Recreational spaces include game rooms, hobby areas, outdoor gardens, walking and hiking paths, a fitness room with treadmills, a stationary bike, a NuStep trainer, and organized wellness programs, as well as events, arts and crafts, and frequent outings to restaurants, sporting events, theaters, and museums. The calendar stays full with something happening every day-bingo, church services, card games, music, even a chair beach ball team, and residents can decorate their own private suites to really make a space feel like home.

    Mallard Point welcomes people from all walks of life-any race, faith, or orientation-and has pet-friendly policies, so people can bring along their animal companions if that's what feels right for them. The building includes safety features, private entrances, locked mailboxes, and front desk staff to help with daily needs, and the culture leans into self-directed living, letting residents decide their own schedules and follow old hobbies or pick up new ones, with support from staff for everything from basic needs to helping arrange transportation or educational outings.

    Mallard Point Senior Living doesn't provide medical or health care services directly, but allows outside agencies and home health professionals to come and provide care, including non-medical support or companion care for those who need it, which works well for residents who value their independence but need a little help now and then, and families often appreciate the flexible approach. It works for people who want freedom but worry about chores, safety, or driving, or need a supportive hand. Regular tours are available, even in the evenings or on weekends, and the environment is designed to be clean, safe, and as welcoming as possible, aiming to help residents live each day with less worry and more joy.

    About Arrow Senior Living

    Mallard Point Senior Living is managed by Arrow Senior Living.

    Arrow Senior Living (founded 2009) is headquartered in St. Charles, Missouri, managing 37+ senior living communities across six states. With 1,500+ employees overseeing $1.2B+ in assets, they provide independent living, assisted living, and memory care services. Their philosophy centers on celebrating people through dignified care.

    People often ask...

    Nearby Communities

    • Exterior view of a large, multi-story residential building with balconies and a tower-like structure at one corner, surrounded by landscaped greenery and walkways with people walking and sitting nearby during dusk.
      $7,071 – $9,192+3.6 (26)
      Semi-private • 1 Bedroom • Studio
      independent, assisted living, memory care

      Marvella

      825 Mount Curve Blvd, St. Paul, MN, 55116
    • Front exterior view of Harmony Gardens Senior Living facility showing a large, multi-section building with multiple windows, a covered entrance with an American flag in front, and a parking lot with several cars parked.
      Pricing on request4.4 (30)
      suite
      independent, assisted living, memory care

      Harmony Gardens Senior Living

      1438 County Rd C E, Maplewood, MN, 55109
    • Exterior view of a large, modern three-story senior living facility building with a covered entrance driveway, surrounded by green lawns and trees under a partly cloudy blue sky.
      $5,633 – $7,322+3.9 (69)
      Semi-private • 1 Bedroom • Studio
      assisted living, memory care

      Alto Grayslake

      1865 E Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL, 60030
    • Exterior view of Belmont Village Senior Living Glenview building at dusk, showing a large covered entrance with white columns, well-maintained landscaping with bushes and trees, and a multi-story brick and siding facade with lit windows.
      $3,965+4.6 (121)
      Semi-private
      independent, assisted living, memory care

      Belmont Village Senior Living Glenview

      2200 Golf Rd, Glenview, IL, 60025
    • Evening view of the entrance area of Belmont Village Senior Living Lincoln Park, featuring brick walls, decorative lighting fixtures, a circular chandelier on the ceiling, and a sign with the facility's name visible near the street.
      $5,506 – $7,157+4.5 (131)
      Semi-private • 1 Bedroom • Studio
      independent, assisted living, memory care

      Belmont Village Senior Living Lincoln Park

      700 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL, 60614
    • Front exterior view of the American House Town and Country senior living facility with a circular driveway, landscaped greenery, and an American flag on a flagpole under a wooden entrance canopy.
      $5,000+3.9 (61)
      suite
      assisted living, memory care

      American House Town and Country

      1020 Woods Mill Rd, Town and Country, MO, 63017

    Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

    1. 58 facilities$4,778/mo
    2. 38 facilities$4,771/mo
    3. 28 facilities$5,902/mo
    4. 25 facilities$5,902/mo
    5. 17 facilities$6,002/mo
    6. 18 facilities$6,951/mo
    7. 8 facilities$5,140/mo
    8. 0 facilities
    9. 0 facilities
    10. 3 facilities
    11. 2 facilities
    12. 0 facilities
    © 2025 Mirador Living