We decided to move my mom, Vergene, into The Courtyard because she wasn’t eating properly, was having trouble managing her medications, and she really needed to be around people again in a safer and more supportive environment.

Her move was a direct admission, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier with how it’s turned out. The facility is terrific; there are no stairs to worry about, which is a huge relief. She also has a beautiful apartment where she can bring her own furniture. That little touch made it feel just like home for her.The food is excellent (Mom tells me that all the time), and the nursing staff is absolutely incredible, especially Carla. I can’t say enough about how kind and attentive they’ve been. They handle all of mom’s medications, which gives me peace of mind.

I have absolutely no complaints. The Courtyard has been a wonderful place for my mom and a huge comfort for our family.

Val K. (The Courtyard Independent & Assisted Living)

After I broke my leg, my kids didn’t want me living alone anymore. They took care of everything and arranged for me to move into The Courtyard. There just happened to be an open apartment at the time, and I’ve been here ever since. Before I officially moved into the assisted living side, I stayed in the Oakwood Care Center for rehab.

What I appreciate most about The Courtyard is its size. It’s a smaller facility, and that makes a big difference to me. I don’t have to walk a mile to get to the dining room, and that kind of convenience really matters. The food has been relatively good as well. I’m diabetic, so I have to be mindful, especially with all the tempting desserts they serve!

I’ve been living here for three and a half years now, and with my 90th birthday coming up soon, I think it’s safe to say this is home. I’m comfortable here, and that’s what matters.

Gladys P. (The Courtyard Independent & Assisted Living)

I ended up at Oakwood Care Center after a bit of an embarrassing fall—I was distracted by some geese outside and wasn’t watching where I was going. I fell off two steps, hit my head, and broke my wrist in a couple of places. After spending a few days in the hospital, they sent me to Oakwood for rehabilitation.Oakwood Care Center did everything right. The therapy team really helped me get back on my feet, and I eventually made it back home. That in itself felt like a huge success.

I didn’t feel anxious or uncomfortable about being there. Everything was in order, with no issues. While I wouldn’t choose to go to a nursing facility unless necessary, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Oakwood to someone who needs care. They treated me well, and my experience was a positive one from start to finish.

Ellie H. (Oakwood Care Center)

I’ve been living with MS for over 34 years, and unfortunately, anytime I undergo anesthesia, things tend to go wrong. After a knee replacement surgery—what should’ve been a short 15-minute procedure—I woke up unable to walk. The anesthesia had completely taken away my ability to move, and I was devastated.I came to Oakwood Care Center because I needed help rebuilding my strength and learning how to walk again. It wasn’t easy. I spent five years and five months there, and for most of that time, I worked hard every single day. I would use the NuStep machine for over an hour daily, determined to get back on my feet. Eventually, they told me, “Ellen, you can go home.” That moment meant everything to me.The staff at Oakwood was excellent. Everyone was kind, supportive, and genuinely cared about my recovery, and they ensured I had everything I needed.Oakwood became more than just a rehabilitation facility. My daughter even works there now, which says a lot about the environment and how it felt like family. My husband came to visit almost every day, and the support I had from both the staff and my loved ones made all the difference.

Ellen J. (Oakwood Care Center)

I’ve always known where I’d go if I ever needed care—and that place is Oakwood. Years ago, I worked here as a nurse when the building was still just the front portion. I spent three to five wonderful years here, and even back then, I said to myself, “Someday, when I’m older, this is where I’ll come.” And that day came after I had two surgeries. I wasn’t in failing health, but I just wasn’t 100%, and I knew I needed a little help to get back on my feet.

Choosing Oakwood was never a question for me. It’s close to home—just three blocks away—and I spent many days here visiting my mother, who passed away at the remarkable age of 109. With all the time I’d spent in the building—both working and visiting—it already felt like home. And now, as a resident, it truly is.

The meals are exceptional. The nutrition program has evolved far beyond what it was during my working years here. Everything is clean—spotless, really—and I know because I walk the halls often and see it all. I’ve gotten to know the other residents, their families, and many of the staff simply from being present and involved. Even though I can’t remember all their names (that comes with age!), I’d recognize their faces anywhere. And I’ll never forget how kind, helpful, and warm they all are.

The staff here? They’re not just employees—they’re family. I’ve even “adopted” one of the girls and told her mother, “If I’d had a daughter, I’d have wanted one just like her.” And her mom said, “Well, sometimes I’ve given her to you.” That tells you the kind of bond we build here.

Every day, I wake up knowing I’ll be well-fed, well cared for, and surrounded by friendly faces. The laundry is always done beautifully. My room is comfortable. I can walk, socialize, rest, or enjoy being in a place where I feel entirely secure. If I ever need anything—even a different juice with breakfast—someone’s there to help, happily.

I truly call Oakwood my home. It’s more than a facility—it’s a blessing. And I’m proud to say, with all my heart, that I couldn’t have picked a better place to be.

Rose W.

I first came to The Courtyard Independent & Assisted Living after a hospital stay at Mercy. At the time, I needed extra care, and the location made perfect sense—it’s just four miles from my hometown of Ventura, and Clear Lake is right next door. This is my community, and I’ve worked at the local bank for 60 years, so being close to the people I’ve known all my life made the transition a lot easier.

When I moved into the assisted living side, I really loved it. The staff are incredible. I honestly can’t pick just one to shout out because they all make my day brighter. They come into my room, we chat, we laugh—they’re like my best friends. It truly feels like family.

The food is great, the cleaning staff does an excellent job, and I always feel supported. I haven’t gotten too involved in activities like bingo, but I enjoy the lunches and just being around friendly faces. I’m a talkative person, so it’s been easy to connect with people—many I already knew!

Even after breaking my hip and needing more care temporarily, I’m doing everything I can to get back to my own space in assisted living. I’d definitely recommend The Courtyard to anyone from this area who’s looking for a warm, familiar, and supportive place to call home.

Bonnie B. The Courtyard (Oakwood Care Center)