Overall sentiment across the reviews is strongly positive regarding the physical plant, amenities, and general quality of care at The Willows At Howell, with the most common praises focused on its new construction, high-end finishings, and cleanliness. Multiple reviewers describe the building as brand-new or recently opened, immaculate, and thoughtfully furnished, with spacious private rooms, low beds, and pleasing views of patios and trees. The facility is consistently noted for having multiple dining areas (including salad bars), in-room TV access, and options for in-room meals. The environment is described as secure and well-monitored for residents who wander, with gated access and safety measures in place.
Activities and programming receive frequent positive mention: reviewers note a wide variety of activities such as exercise classes, bingo, music, crafts, and daily programming that contribute to a lively atmosphere. There are also amenities like a small library and occasional community-focused events (for example a free monthly lunch program). The Willows is seen as offering a robust rehabilitation program fit for short-term stays and recovery. Many reviewers characterize the décor as homey rather than stark, with hallways thoughtfully labeled (some named after local residents) and organized common spaces that support engagement and comfort.
Staff and care quality are generally praised: most accounts highlight compassionate, quick, and responsive staff who provide sympathetic care and regular communication with families. Sales and admissions staff are described as helpful and informative, and several reviewers explicitly recommend the facility based on positive interactions. That said, there are reports of inconsistency—some reviewers observed moments of limited staff engagement or communication lapses. A few family members reported clearer, more regular updates while others experienced some communication issues, indicating variability in management and staff execution across shifts or units.
Cost and access are recurring concerns. Numerous reviewers mention that The Willows is expensive; in several cases cost was the reason a reviewer chose not to move a loved one in. The facility appears to have a limited number of Medicaid beds and can have a long wait for Medicaid placement, which may restrict access for lower-income or publicly funded residents. Despite the high price, several reviewers still call it good value or top-notch for what is offered; however, the expense remains a barrier for some prospective residents.
Layout and certain aesthetic aspects produce mixed impressions. While many find the facility attractive and homey, others describe some rooms or hallways as hospital-like, and several visitors reported difficulty navigating the layout or getting lost in the building. COVID-related restriction notes also influenced some impressions—visitation limits temporarily hindered full assessments of cleanliness or routine operations for a few reviewers. Finally, while the facility overall is lauded for cleanliness and organization, a couple of reviewers could not fully verify that due to limited visitation during pandemic restrictions.
In sum, The Willows At Howell is consistently described as a modern, well-appointed senior community with strong programming, good rehabilitation services, and caring staff. Its principal drawbacks are cost and limited Medicaid availability, plus occasional inconsistencies in staff engagement and wayfinding challenges within the building. For families prioritizing a high-end, secure, activity-rich environment and who can manage the price or private-pay requirements, reviews indicate The Willows is a highly recommended option; for those dependent on Medicaid or who need lower-cost alternatives, access and affordability are the main limitations to consider.
