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The Waters of Columbia City

640 W Ellsworth St

4.4(27 ratings)

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Quick Facts

Total units
84
Medicare rating
3 of 5

CMS Care Compare

Ownership
For profit, Corporation
Certified beds
84
Inspections
View history (40 citations)
Care model
Skilled nursing combined with dedicated memory care
Specialized services
Wound care and respiratory support offered on-site
Stay options
Both short-term rehab and long-term residential care
Therapy access
On-site physical therapist supports rehab residents

What Families Think

Families describe The Waters of Columbia City as a clean, welcoming skilled nursing facility where the administrator and staff are attentive and know residents by name. Reviewers frequently praise the physical therapy and rehab support that helped loved ones regain strength, though one reviewer raised concerns about food quality and preparation.

The Good

  • Staff described as friendly, attentive, and know residents by name
  • Facility reported clean and odor-free
  • Effective physical therapy helped residents regain strength
  • Administrator praised for responsiveness and clear communication
  • Personalized memory care alongside skilled nursing services

The Bad

  • One reviewer reported consistently overcooked, dry, or bland meals
  • Building described by reviewers as older, though partially remodeled

AI-generated from reviews and community data.

The Waters of Columbia City is a senior living community in Columbia City, Indiana offering Memory Care and Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care. Amenities include Restaurant style Dining Room, Gathering / Activity Spaces and Social Activities. Families rate it 4.4 out of 5 across 27 reviews.

About The Waters of Columbia City

Waters of Columbia City is a skilled nursing facility in Columbia City, Indiana, offering both short-term rehabilitation and long-term residential care. The community provides personalized memory care alongside general skilled nursing services, with a focus on helping residents feel safe, supported, and at home.

The facility specializes in rehabilitation and recovery services, assisting residents in rebuilding strength, confidence, and independence whether they stay for a short period or long-term. The care team works with each resident to help them reach their fullest potential during their recovery process.

Waters of Columbia City offers a range of specialized medical services tailored to individual resident needs, including wound care and respiratory support. The community emphasizes personalized care plans designed to address the unique requirements of each resident.

The memory care program is specifically designed to encourage connection and comfort, with staff committed to supporting residents in living each day to the fullest. The facility maintains high standards of cleanliness and operational care throughout the community.

Types of Care at The Waters of Columbia City

Memory CareSkilled Nursing / Long Term Care

Amenities

Room Amenities

  • 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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Reviews of The Waters of Columbia City

4.4overall · 27 ratings combined

4.4★ on Google (27)

Write a review

Kristen Zickgraf

Jul 2025

via Google ↗

Hi. My Dad went here after being in hospital, in Columbia City. We were a little concerned on having go there. I went to see the place before my Dad said yes. It is very clean place. Didn't smell. The administrator- Laurie was very friendly and when touring the facility. Whenever passing a resident she knew their name and had a short conversation with them. It is an older facility, but they are have done to some remodeling to the floors. So I went back to my Dad. He was willing to try it out. He was there 2 weeks. He said meals were good. They had some activities to try out. But usually he tired from his physical therapy. He did get use of his left leg with no pain. And the staff were so friendly! If you ask my Dad. He said they all were very helpful and friendly. I had to talk to social services about getting him home health care. Brook was/is very friendly. I guess you can't judge a book by it's cover. I am very happy with the care that my Dad got and he is home now. He is still doing his exercise that the physical therapist(Beth Ann) gave him. Want everyone to know what great friendly care he received from "the Waters " in Columbia City

Gary Pudell

Jul 2025

via Google ↗

Great staff, the menu, and food preparation could do with a vast improvement. No one who respects food, and what is involved to get it from the farm to the table would overcook vegetables to absolute mush. The nutrition that once was inside them has gone into the cooking liquid, and it would be better to serve that instead of the plant fiber, which at this point only causes loose stools. Ground beef, and chicken are cooked until hard and dry, with no clear juices left in them. Plain white rice, which is cheap is boiled and served plain, with no flavor added, not even a simple gravy. White bread is seldom seen, and even most of the buns are wheat. If hamburgers were meant to be on a wheat bun, I think that McDonald's and Burger King would have that option available. A ground beef patty has to be cut with a knife and fork because it is too hard to cut with the fork alone. Who ever is overcooking the food in the kitchen, wouldn't last an hour at any decent fast food joint, or restaurant. That's a problem that needs to be corrected by someone who actually cares about food, and food service. Bob Evans is closing many of it's locations in Indiana, there's bound to be some displaced workers who know how to run a kitchen and kitchen staff. Let's hope that many of them end up in the kitchen, and that the menu and food preparation will improve.

Carol

Apr 2025

via Google ↗

I visited this community today and thoroughly impressed. Upon walking through the front door I was greater with a smile from the executive director who came out of her office to meet me. Ciera took me on a tour and I was greeted by smiles from all the residents and the staff. The building itself may be a little bit older but they a making great efforts to update. It was clean and Oder free. It is charming and homey. Most important I was impressed by the interactions between staff and residents. Everyone was engaged it is one big happy family. Well worth the consideration for your loved one.

Chari Krafft

Jan 2025

via Google ↗

My mother went to the Waters in Columbia City mid-June. The administrator, Laurie, is so over-the-top helpful and answers all of my questions. Sheila, the RN, was able to get my mom involved in activities she would not have done without persuasion. Erica gives mom extra attention as do so many of the employees. Mom loves bingo and "B" helps make sure she can see the cards and play along. Amber plans activities that mom can enjoy. Mom's room is clean and newly refurbished. We are able to visit often and are always warmly greeted by the staff. My sister and I are so thankful for the great care that they give to her. They truly care about their patients and we are thankful that my sister found this facility for our mom. I highly recommend it! 1/13/25 - My mom's insurance dropped her and needless to say, I was so stressed to get things moved to another insurance company to cover her medications as soon as possible. Once again, Laurie, Kristen, Ann, and Sheila helped me make this transition (helping with the in-house details) and get her meds all straightened out. This Team always does more than expected!

Angie Crabill

Dec 2024

via Google ↗

I cannot praise the staff enough at this wonderful facility! Laurie, the Administrator, provides top notch customer service! She went above and beyond during a very stressful time for me and my siblings. It was clear The Waters was the best choice! It is so refreshing to see the friendly and professional relationships among the staff who are most helpful with every need and question. The honesty and knowledge that was shared regarding our options was priceless. Other facilities out there could take a lesson from Laurie on how to provide amazing customer service to families and their loved ones! There is a real sense of calm and hominess at this facility. The Administrator and staff take the time (with heart) to get to know the patients, which are then treated like family. I highly recommend The Waters for your loved one! Skilled nursing and long-term facilities are NOT created equal! Do your research, take a tour, and your journey will lead you to Laurie and her incredible staff at The Waters of Columbia City!

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Government Inspection History

4 inspection visits in the last three years, 40 citations on file. Inspections are conducted by state agencies on behalf of the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Dec 12, 2025Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard11 citations

  • 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 16, 2026

  • Have approved installation, maintenance and testing program for fire alarm systems.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 29, 2026

  • Install an approved automatic sprinkler system.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 29, 2026

  • Have simulated fire drills held at unexpected times.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 29, 2026

  • To conduct inspection, testing and maintenance of fire doors by qualified individuals.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Jan 29, 2026

  • Honor the resident's right to a dignified existence, self-determination, communication, and to exercise his or her rights.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Jan 16, 2026

  • 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 Jan 16, 2026

  • Keep aisles, corridors, and exits free of obstruction in case of emergency.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 29, 2026

  • Ensure that special areas are constructed so that walls can resist fire for one hour or have an approved fire extinguishing system.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 29, 2026

  • 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 Jan 16, 2026

  • Provide safe and appropriate respiratory care for a resident when needed.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Jan 16, 2026

Oct 21, 2024Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard18 citations

  • Conduct risk assessment and an All-Hazards approach.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 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 Nov 1, 2024

  • Address subsistence needs for staff and patients.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Create arrangements with other facilities to receive patients.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Properly select, install, inspect, or maintain portable fire extinguishes.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Nov 1, 2024

  • Ensure proper usage of power strips and extension cords.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Dec 21, 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 Nov 1, 2024

  • Ensure that special areas are constructed so that walls can resist fire for one hour or have an approved fire extinguishing system.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Inspect, test, and maintain automatic sprinkler systems.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Have properly installed electrical wiring and gas equipment.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • 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 Nov 1, 2024

  • 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 Nov 1, 2024

  • Develop a communication plan.

    Severity C of L: potential for minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Establish emergency prep training and testing.

    Severity C of L: potential for minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Develop and maintain an Emergency Preparedness Program (EP).

    Severity C of L: potential for minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Develop Emergency Preparedness policies and procedures.

    Severity C of L: potential for minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 2024

  • Establish staff and initial training requirements.

    Severity C of L: potential for minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Dec 21, 2024

Feb 22, 2024Health Complaint2 citations

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

    Severity J of L: immediate jeopardy, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 24, 2024

  • Ensure that residents are free from significant medication errors.

    Severity J of L: immediate jeopardy, isolatedFound during a complaint inspectionCorrected Feb 24, 2024

Sep 29, 2023Fire Safety StandardHealth Standard9 citations

  • Conduct testing and exercise requirements.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Nov 30, 2023

  • Have simulated fire drills held at unexpected times.

    Severity F of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, widespreadCorrected Nov 30, 2023

  • Provide exit doors that are held open by devices that will automatically close on the activation of a fire alarm or smoke detector.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Nov 30, 2023

  • Honor the resident's right to organize and participate in resident/family groups in the facility.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Oct 20, 2023

  • Have elevators that firefighters can control in the event of a fire.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Nov 30, 2023

  • Provide and implement an infection prevention and control program.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Oct 20, 2023

  • Provide enough nursing staff every day to meet the needs of every resident; and have a licensed nurse in charge on each shift.

    Severity E of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, patternCorrected Oct 20, 2023

  • Keep residents' personal and medical records private and confidential.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Oct 20, 2023

  • Honor the resident's right to a dignified existence, self-determination, communication, and to exercise his or her rights.

    Severity D of L: no actual harm, potential for more than minimal harm, isolatedCorrected Oct 20, 2023

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 The Waters of Columbia City offer?

The Waters of Columbia City offers Memory Care and Skilled Nursing / Long Term Care.

Where is The Waters of Columbia City located?

The Waters of Columbia City is located at 640 W Ellsworth St in Columbia City, Indiana.

What do families say about The Waters of Columbia City?

Families describe The Waters of Columbia City as a clean, welcoming skilled nursing facility where the administrator and staff are attentive and know residents by name. Reviewers frequently praise the physical therapy and rehab support that helped loved ones regain strength, though one reviewer raised concerns about food quality and preparation.

How did The Waters of Columbia City do on recent health and safety inspections?

The Waters of Columbia City had 4 government inspection visits in the last three years, with 40 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 The Waters of Columbia City?

Submit the Request Information form on this page to connect with The Waters of Columbia City and arrange a tour. Sharing your timeline and care needs up front helps the community prepare for your visit.

Work at The Waters of Columbia City? Claim this listing to update photos, pricing, and details. It's free.

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