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University Heights Care Center

656 Dillon Way

3.7(50 ratings)· Aurora average: 4.4

University Heights Care Center, photo 11 / 4

Quick Facts

Medicare rating
2 of 5

CMS Care Compare

Ownership
For profit, Corporation
Certified beds
105
Respite care
Short-term respite stays available for caregiver relief
Behavioral health care
Non-secure support for residents with mental health challenges
Medical oversight
Telemedicine and on-site physician visits available
End-of-life care
On-site hospice and palliative care services

What Families Think

Reviews of University Heights Care Center are sharply mixed: many families and visitors praise the therapy team, activities, and specific caring staff members, while a substantial number of reviewers report serious concerns about neglect, hygiene, understaffing, and difficulty reaching staff by phone. The facility appears to have gone through management changes, which some reviewers link to inconsistent quality of care.

The Good

  • Therapy and rehab program praised as 'top-notch'
  • Daily variety of activities (crafts, bingo, entertainment)
  • Many reviewers describe building as clean and odor-free
  • Specific nurses and CNAs singled out for compassionate care
  • Outdoor space for residents to relax
  • Administrator described as involved and accessible

The Bad

  • Multiple reports of slow or unanswered call-button response
  • Several reviewers had trouble reaching staff or getting phone calls returned
  • Reports of bug infestation in resident rooms
  • One serious report of hygiene neglect (residents left in soiled diapers)
  • Frequent turnover in Director of Nursing cited as a communication problem

AI-generated from reviews and community data.

University Heights Care Center is a senior living community in Aurora, Colorado offering Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care. Amenities include Restaurant style Dining Room, Gathering / Activity Spaces and Social Activities. Families rate it 3.7 out of 5 across 50 reviews.

About University Heights Care Center

University Heights Rehab and Care Community is a skilled nursing community in Aurora, Colorado, offering person-centered rehabilitation and long-term care for individuals in the surrounding areas. The community's goal is to foster an environment focused on care, healing, and wellness, with care options designed for the "whole person," including those living with behavioral health challenges.

On-site therapists and clinical team members provide care for a broad range of medical needs following hospitalization. The rehabilitation team includes physical, occupational, and speech-language therapists, and an Outpatient Therapy program supports continuity of care for individuals returning home. The skilled nursing team provides complex clinical care such as IV (infusion) therapy, wound care, chronic disease management, and respiratory therapy, along with telemedicine options and on-site physician visits for medical oversight and coordination of care.

The community takes a person-directed approach to behavioral health needs, providing care and support for individuals living with mental health challenges in a safe, non-secure environment. Respite care is also available for individuals when personal caregivers are unavailable, offering a safe and comfortable environment that promotes well-being during short stays.

Regardless of length of stay, care is person-centered, with opportunities to incorporate residents' interests, activities, and engagement, helping guests build meaningful connections with others navigating similar experiences. End of Life programming and comfort care services, including hospice and palliative care, focus on symptom management, pain relief, and honoring end-of-life wishes, with care plans customized for each individual and family.

Types of Care at University Heights Care Center

Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care

Amenities

Room Amenities

  • Cable or Satellite TV
  • Emergency Call System
  • Private Bathroom
  • Private Rooms
  • Wheelchair Accessible

Meals & Dining

  • Dietary Accommodations (Gluten-Free, Low / No Sodium, No Sugar, Vegan)
  • Restaurant style Dining Room

Community Amenities

  • 24-Hour Staff
  • Chapel / Religious Services
  • Gathering / Activity Spaces
  • Housekeeping
  • Medication Management
  • On-Site Nurse (RN)
  • Security

Activities

  • Social Activities (Happy Hour, Wine Tasting, Dances, Karaoke)

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Help Me Choose

Reviews of University Heights Care Center

3.7overall · 50 ratings combined

3.7★ on Google (50)

Christabel Chang

May 2026

via Google

I called and texted DON yesterday and today (9/18) ; inquired my parent’s missing food delivery; DON hasn’t replied ! Very frustrating, University Heights changes DON constantly and very hard for families to know who’s responsible for f/u residents complaints… ☹️☹️☹️<br><br>Today is 9/23/24 I texted both DON and Director of admissions to f/u my parents Costco food delivery again; still no reply? Not sure how this facility run? Totally ignored residents’ family’s concerns??? Very very frustrating! ☹️☹️☹️😣😣😣<br><br>Today is 5/20/26 I thought things were getting better with my parents cares in University Heights… We just visited them 11 days ago… Yet, for the past 72 hours I have tried countless times to call UH main phone number to inquire my parents clinical status without success; especially my mom just had mental breakdown…My parents both have cognitive impairment.<br><br>My Phone calls to UH either got hung up or disconnected right after transferred to nurse station… I’m so exhausted and frustrated… Not sure what’s going on ??? I also texted the assistant DON ( Samira ) and Director of Social Service( Stephanie)….. . So many things needed to be addressed and followed up…. Hope I will get call or text messages from them soon. 😓😓😓🙏🙏🙏

ColoradoRzd

Jan 2026

via Google

I have an old friend staying here and oddly enough another old friends family member. It’s not fancy or a high budget facility, that’s for sure, but the staff have been friendly and accommodating when I’ve visited. It could use some fresh air but it seems like a safe place with good staff. It’s a hard job I’m sure. I am thankful for all they do for the tenants living there.

Rhianna Moreno

Jan 2026

via Google

I have visited this facility numerous times to see my loved one and staff have been very helpful and friendly.

Faith Robeson

Dec 2025

via Google

I have been here just sit of 3 months and I have top day that three staff on the north wing are truly amazing. They available to get scheduled and prn medicines. The CNA's are a mixed bag. Some of them are quite lovely and take the residents needs very seriously. They go above and beyond and I have felt safe and cared for. There are some that aren't as great as others. Most of the food is good and if you don't like the main dish there are always choices so it is possible to have what you want for any meal. The activities are so fun. Every day there is a variety of things to do from stretching to puzzles and crafts to bingo. It is possible to be as active as you would like or it's possible to stay in your room and things being brought to you. There is even a store that sells chips, candy, and soda. I am very happy here and want nothing. My room is so much mine and the staff help me to create it further.

Emily Foster

Dec 2025

via Google

I have had nothing but good experiences with University Heights. Their building is always clean and welcoming. Their therapy program is top-notch. Their social services department is very knowledgeable and helpful. I know their administrator is very involved in the day to day operations at the building, and his door is always open. I highly recommend University Heights if you need a long-term care option!

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Government Inspection History

6 inspection visits in the last three years, 52 citations on file. Inspections are conducted by state agencies on behalf of the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Dec 16, 2025Health Complaint3 citations
  • Make sure there is a pest control program to prevent/deal with mice, insects, or other pests.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Dec 17, 2025

  • Respond appropriately to all alleged violations.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Dec 17, 2025

  • Protect each resident from all types of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual abuse, physical punishment, and neglect by anybody.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Dec 17, 2025

Aug 7, 2025Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard11 citations
  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Ensure that residents are fully informed and understand their health status, care and treatments.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Ensure residents do not lose the ability to perform activities of daily living unless there is a medical reason.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Provide care and assistance to perform activities of daily living for any resident who is unable.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Provide appropriate pressure ulcer care and prevent new ulcers from developing.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Provide appropriate care for residents who are continent or incontinent of bowel/bladder, appropriate catheter care, and appropriate care to prevent urinary tract infections.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Provide activities to meet all resident's needs.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Provide care or services that was trauma informed and/or culturally competent.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Ensure that residents are free from significant medication errors.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

  • Arrange for the provision of hospice services or assist the resident in transferring to a facility that will arrange for the provision of hospice services.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Aug 28, 2025

Mar 26, 2025Health Complaint3 citations
  • Protect each resident from all types of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual abuse, physical punishment, and neglect by anybody.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Mar 27, 2025

  • Ensure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Mar 27, 2025

  • Provide the appropriate treatment and services to a resident who displays or is diagnosed with dementia.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Mar 27, 2025

Jan 24, 2024Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard19 citations
  • Develop Emergency Preparedness policies and procedures.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Procure food from sources approved or considered satisfactory and store, prepare, distribute and serve food in accordance with professional standards.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Dispose of garbage and refuse properly.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Conduct and document a facility-wide assessment to determine what resources are necessary to care for residents competently during both day-to-day operations (including nights and weekends) and emergencies.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Set up an ongoing quality assessment and assurance group to review quality deficiencies and develop corrective plans of action.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Develop and implement policies and procedures for flu and pneumonia vaccinations.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Include a process for Emergency Preparedness collaboration.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Ensure each resident receives and the facility provides food that accommodates resident allergies, intolerances, and preferences, as well as appealing options.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Honor the resident's right to a safe, clean, comfortable and homelike environment, including but not limited to receiving treatment and supports for daily living safely.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Ensure menus must meet the nutritional needs of residents, be prepared in advance, be followed, be updated, be reviewed by dietician, and meet the needs of the resident.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Ensure food and drink is palatable, attractive, and at a safe and appetizing temperature.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Protect each resident from all types of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual abuse, physical punishment, and neglect by anybody.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • PASARR screening for Mental disorders or Intellectual Disabilities

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Plan the resident's discharge to meet the resident's goals and needs.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Assist a resident in gaining access to vision and hearing services.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Provide safe, appropriate pain management for a resident who requires such services.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Honor the resident's right to voice grievances without discrimination or reprisal and the facility must establish a grievance policy and make prompt efforts to resolve grievances.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 25, 2024

  • Allow residents to self-administer drugs if determined clinically appropriate.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 25, 2024

Jul 19, 2023Health Complaint2 citations
  • Protect each resident from all types of abuse such as physical, mental, sexual abuse, physical punishment, and neglect by anybody.

    Severity J of L: immediate jeopardy, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Jul 19, 2023

  • Respond appropriately to all alleged violations.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Jul 19, 2023

Sep 29, 2022Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard14 citations
  • Provide appropriate pressure ulcer care and prevent new ulcers from developing.

    Severity G of L: actual harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Provide enough food/fluids to maintain a resident's health.

    Severity G of L: actual harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Ensure food and drink is palatable, attractive, and at a safe and appetizing temperature.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Ensure drugs and biologicals used in the facility are labeled in accordance with currently accepted professional principles; and all drugs and biologicals must be stored in locked compartments, separately locked, compartments for controlled drugs.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Provide care and assistance to perform activities of daily living for any resident who is unable.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Provide activities to meet all resident's needs.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Provide appropriate treatment and care according to orders, resident’s preferences and goals.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Provide appropriate care for a resident to maintain and/or improve range of motion (ROM), limited ROM and/or mobility, unless a decline is for a medical reason.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Ensure that a nursing home area is free from accident hazards and provides adequate supervision to prevent accidents.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Implement gradual dose reductions(GDR) and non-pharmacological interventions, unless contraindicated, prior to initiating or instead of continuing psychotropic medication; and PRN orders for psychotropic medications are only used when the medication is necessary and PRN use is limited.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Ensure each resident receives and the facility provides drinks consistent with resident needs and preferences and sufficient to maintain resident hydration.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Reasonably accommodate the needs and preferences of each resident.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

  • Create and put into place a plan for meeting the resident's most immediate needs within 48 hours of being admitted

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Sep 30, 2022

Source: CMS Care Compare, public federal data covering certified nursing facilities, refreshed monthly. Citations range from A (least serious) to L (most serious) on the federal scope and severity scale. Most citations are corrected quickly; review the details and ask the community about anything that concerns you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of care does University Heights Care Center offer?

University Heights Care Center offers Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care.

Where is University Heights Care Center located?

University Heights Care Center is located at 656 Dillon Way in Aurora, Colorado.

What do families say about University Heights Care Center?

Reviews of University Heights Care Center are sharply mixed: many families and visitors praise the therapy team, activities, and specific caring staff members, while a substantial number of reviewers report serious concerns about neglect, hygiene, understaffing, and difficulty reaching staff by phone. The facility appears to have gone through management changes, which some reviewers link to inconsistent quality of care.

How did University Heights Care Center do on recent health and safety inspections?

University Heights Care Center had 6 government inspection visits in the last three years, with 52 citations on file according to CMS Care Compare data. The full history, including what each citation was for and whether it was corrected, is in the inspection section on this page.

How can families visit University Heights Care Center?

Submit the Request Information form on this page to connect with University Heights Care Center and arrange a tour. Sharing your timeline and care needs up front helps the community prepare for your visit.

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