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Assisted Living Investigative

Brookdale Federal Way

Reviewer concerns include understaffing leading to slow response times (mentioned by 3 reviewers) — investigate before committing.

31002 14th Ave S, Federal Way, WA 98003110 bedsLicensed & Active
Source: WA DSHS — view official record
Google rating
2.8/5

based on 20 Google reviews

5
4
3
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Brookdale Federal Way Assisted Living in Federal Way, WA — Street View
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What this means for your family

While some families report positive experiences with specific staff members, the recurring reports of understaffing, poor hygiene, and alleged financial mismanagement are significant red flags. If you consider this facility, we strongly recommend conducting unannounced visits and asking for a detailed breakdown of all billing charges before signing any contracts.

Google Reviews

Google Reviews

20 reviews on Google
Brookdale Federal Way presents a highly inconsistent experience for families, with reports ranging from high praise for specific leadership to serious allegations of neglect and financial mismanagement. While some long-term residents and their families appreciate the care provided by certain staff members, others report significant issues with understaffing, poor communication, and inadequate care for residents with dementia.

Quality Themes

Tap a score for details
Food2.0Staff5.0Clean3.0ActivitiesN/AMedsN/AMemory2.0Comms3.0Value1.0

Strengths

  • Dedicated long-term staff members
  • Strong leadership under specific directors
  • Responsive tour and admissions staff

Concerns

  • Understaffing leading to slow response times (mentioned by 3 reviewers)
  • Inadequate care and hygiene for residents (mentioned by 3 reviewers)
  • Poor communication and responsiveness from management (mentioned by 3 reviewers)
  • Inadequate nutrition and dietary accommodation (mentioned by 2 reviewers)

Rating Trends

Tap a year to see what changed

234'17(1)'19(2)'21(3)'23(4)'25(3)'26(2)

Distribution · 22 analyzed

5
6
4
3
3
3
2
2
1
8

How They Respond to Reviews

55%response rate

This facility responds to some reviews.

Questions for Your Tour

  • 1I noticed that some staff members have been here for a long time; how does that longevity help with the consistency of care for residents?
  • 2Could you walk me through the typical process for how the team handles and communicates updates regarding a resident's health or changes in care needs?
  • 3What steps are currently being taken to ensure that dietary preferences and nutritional needs are consistently met for every resident?
  • 4How does the facility manage staffing levels throughout the day to ensure that residents receive timely assistance when they need it?
  • 5Could you share how the team maintains cleanliness and hygiene standards in the private suites and common areas on a daily basis?
  • 6What does a typical afternoon look like for residents in terms of social activities and engagement opportunities?

Personalized based on this facility's data


Key Review Excerpts

My 102-year-old mother is still alive and well at Brookdale, thanks to the heroic efforts of Executive Director Steve Wickline and his incredible, caring staff during this terrible year.

Long-term resident's family · 2021★★★★★

My mom has been there several years refuses to leave to live with my sister or I she loves the staff which can be revolving at times but at the end of the say it the care and concern entire staff shows.

Long-term resident's family · 2024☆☆☆☆

They were getting paid for assisted showers, getting her dressed, and cleaning here apartment. None of those things happened on a regular basis. Just lazy employees that don't do there job.

Memory care family member · 2019☆☆☆☆
Source: 20 Google reviews

State Inspection History

State Inspections

Source: WA Dept. of Social & Health Services

7total
82deficiencies
Feb 24, 2026Fire

The inspection on 02/24/2026 confirmed that all violations noted during previous related inspections have been corrected.

Relocatable power taps and current tapsIFC 603.5

Appliances plugged into power strips in Wellness center/offices; power strip plugged into another power strip.

ListingIFC 0603.5.1

Unapproved multi plug adapter in the kitchen.

Extension CordsIFC 603.6

Resident room 273 has two extension cords in use.

RecordsIFC 606.3.3.3

Unable to provide annual and semi-annual report for kitchen hood cleaning.

Smoke BarriersIFC 701.3

Penetrations throughout the facility by exit signs where ceiling tile was cut.

Penetrations - Maintaining ProtectionIFC 703.1

Riser room has penetrations on the side wall.

Inspection and MaintenanceIFC 705.2

Multiple fire door deficiencies; unable to provide correction report; multiple doors propped open.

Door OperationIFC 705.2.4

Multiple doors missing closure or failing to latch when tested.

CalculationsIFC 903.3.8.5

Facility missing hydraulic calculation plate for sprinkler riser.

Testing and MaintenanceIFC 903.5

Unable to provide documentation for 5-year internal pipe testing, 5-year FDC hydro testing, and forward flow testing.

Unobstructed and UnobscuredIFC 906.6

Fire extinguishers in the kitchen were obstructed.

Hangers and BracketsIFC 906.7

Four portable fire extinguishers in the riser room not housed or hanging.

Emergency Power for Illumination - GeneralIFC 1008.3.1

Emergency light #22 by room 115 did not operate when tested.

Door Opening ForceIFC 1010.1.3

NW fire door 2 b needed additional force to open.

MaintenanceIFC 1203.4

Missing documentation for weekly generator testing for several dates in 2024 and 2025.

Securing Compressed Gas ContainersIFC 5303.5.3

Resident room 131 has unsecured oxygen.

Apr 3, 2025Inspection

A separate follow-up inspection letter dated 05/28/2025 indicates that all deficiencies listed in the report were corrected.; The report also notes staff failed to include comprehensive elements in resident service plans, specifically regarding monitoring signs/symptoms for dementia, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression, and providing guidance on medication side effects.

Service agreement planningWAC 388-78A-2130

Facility failed to document service agreements for 11 of 13 residents that met clinical needs, including monitoring instructions for medications, side effects, and management of mental health or seizure conditions.

Coordination of health care servicesWAC 388-78A-2350Corrected May 17, 2025

Facility failed to coordinate care for 2 of 14 residents. Staff did not notify physicians of abnormal blood pressure readings (Resident 2) or perform required heart rate checks for medication administration (Resident 13).

Ongoing assessmentsWAC 388-78A-2100Corrected May 17, 2025

Facility failed to complete annual and change of condition assessments for 13 of 13 sampled residents, missing documentation on health status, medications, and specific conditions like seizures, depression, and anxiety.

Signing negotiated service agreementWAC 388-78A-2150Corrected May 17, 2025

Facility failed to ensure 14 of 14 sampled residents or their representatives/case managers signed the Personal Service Plan annually.

May 28, 2024Inspection

Letter states that a follow-up inspection on 05/28/2024 found no deficiencies and that previous deficiencies listed were corrected.; Report also notes documentation deficiencies regarding signatures on Personal Service Plans for Resident 7 and Resident 9.; Report also notes violations of food safety policies regarding cold holding temperatures and sanitation, and missing temperature logs for the dishwasher.; Report also notes staff training deficiencies including HCA certification, first aid, and continuing education.; Plan of correction dates for several items signed by Administrator Glenda Wickett.; Report also details significant medication administration errors and discrepancies for residents 14, 15, 20, 35, and 44, as well as staffing shortages.; The document also includes a cover letter from the Department of Social and Health Services dated 11/01/2023 noting the facility does not meet requirements.

Administrator qualificationsWAC 388-78A-2520-1-c
Garbage and refuse disposalWAC 388-78A-2970-1-c-i
VentilationWAC 388-78A-3000-3
Maintenance and housekeepingWAC 388-78A-3090-1-c
Implementation of negotiated service agreementWAC 388-78A-2160Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to implement medication/treatment regimens for 3 residents and failed to provide shower/bath assistance for 2 residents as specified in their Personal Service Plans.

Food and nutrition servicesWAC 388-78A-2300Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to provide specialized diets for 21 residents, failed to follow dietary manuals, had poor food quality, inconsistent service, and locked kitchen/storage areas preventing access.

Intermittent nursing services systemsWAC 388-78A-2320Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to develop an operational system for nurse delegation for 13 residents, including missing consents, lack of supervision/evaluation, and improper insulin administration techniques by non-licensed staff.

Protection of resident recordsWAC 388-78A-2400Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to securely store resident records; medication carts with resident information were left unattended in hallways, and a supply room containing resident records was found unlocked.

Tuberculosis Testing RequiredWAC 388-78A-2480Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to ensure 3 of 7 sampled staff were screened for tuberculosis within 3 days of employment.

Policies and proceduresWAC 388-78A-2600Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to implement policies on oxygen management and medication disposal, placing residents at risk.

PetsWAC 388-78A-2620Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to maintain current veterinary records for 7 of 8 pets living on the premises.

Notification of change in administratorWAC 388-78A-2570Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to notify the Department of a change in administrator within 10 days of hiring Staff A.

LightingWAC 388-78A-2980Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to maintain lighting fixtures in a stairwell and the dining room; Resident 1 had a flickering light in their apartment.

Resident rights Notice Policy on accepting medicaidWAC 388-78A-2665Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to provide, format correctly, or maintain signatures for Medicaid disclosure policies for multiple residents.

Activities of daily livingWAC 388-78A-2190

Facility failed to provide medication assistance as prescribed; discrepancies found between eMAR documentation and narcotic control logs for multiple residents.

Tuberculosis Testing RequiredWAC 388-78A-2480-1
Administrator qualificationsWAC 388-78A-2520-2
Garbage and refuse disposalWAC 388-78A-2970-1-c-iii
Maintenance and housekeepingWAC 388-78A-3090-1-a
Maintenance and housekeepingWAC 388-78A-3090-1-d
ActivitiesWAC 388-78A-2180Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to provide activities for 86 of 86 residents, had no activity director, no activity calendar, and no functioning van service for outings.

Food sanitationWAC 388-78A-2305Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to ensure proper handwashing by dishwashing staff, failed to maintain required dishwasher temperatures, and did not properly clean/sanitize meal surfaces.

InvestigationsWAC 388-78A-2371Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to investigate unwitnessed falls resulting in injury for 2 residents and failed to investigate a hospitalization for 1 resident.

Training and home care aide certification requirementsWAC 388-78A-2474

Facility failed to ensure 6 of 7 staff members completed all required training, including hands-on CPR and first aid proficiency.

Administrator qualifications GeneralWAC 388-78A-2520Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to ensure the Administrator met the state qualifications and requirements for an assisted living facility administrator.

Infection controlWAC 388-78A-2610Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to implement infection control, PPE, respiratory protection, COVID-19 screening, and safe dining procedures during an outbreak.

Emergency and disaster preparednessWAC 388-78A-2700Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to maintain a comprehensive disaster plan, emergency food/water supplies, and accessible first aid kits.

Garbage and refuse disposalWAC 388-78A-2970Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to maintain outdoor garbage and recycling containers; lids were damaged with large holes, allowing pest access.

Safe storage of supplies and equipmentWAC 388-78A-3100Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility left hazardous chemicals (disinfectants, cleaners) and medical equipment (insulin syringes) in unlocked rooms/carts accessible to residents with cognitive deficits.

VentilationWAC 388-78A-3000Corrected Dec 15, 2023

12 window screens were missing from operable exterior windows throughout the facility.

On-going assessmentsWAC 388-78A-2100

Facility failed to complete required full assessments to evaluate capabilities, care needs, and preferences for 4 sampled residents (Residents 3, 8, 24, and 45) at admission or with a change of condition, placing them at risk.

Maintenance and housekeepingWAC 388-78A-3090

Facility failed to provide a clean, safe, and well-maintained environment. Findings included stained carpets, broken ceiling tiles with exposed insulation, loose handrails, furniture in disrepair, dirty common areas, and unsecured closet doors in resident apartments.

Licensee's responsibilitiesWAC 388-78A-2730Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to post the assisted living facility license in a conspicuous location accessible to residents and visitors.

Resident rightsWAC 388-78A-2660Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to treat 3 of 3 sampled residents with dignity and respect by administering insulin injections in the common dining room without offering a private area, and failing to address resident concerns regarding mattress discomfort.

Communication systemWAC 388-78A-2930Corrected Dec 15, 2023

Facility failed to provide a reliable system for residents to call for assistance. The system malfunctioned frequently, and there was no policy for staff when the system was not operational.

May 20, 2024Fire

Initial inspection on 01/22/2024 resulted in 'Disapproved' status due to generator issues. Follow-up inspection on 05/20/2024 confirmed all previous violations had been corrected.

Emergency and standby power systems maintenanceIFC 1203.4 2018

Facility failed to provide maintenance documentation for the generator and the generator had not been serviced since February 2022.

Feb 15, 2024Enforcement
$1,700.00Report

This letter serves as formal notice of civil fines totaling $1,700.00 for the listed uncorrected deficiencies previously cited on October 19, 2023.

Tuberculosis—Testing—RequiredWAC 388-78A-2480(1)

Licensee failed to ensure three staff were screened for tuberculosis within three days of employment.

Administrator qualifications—GeneralWAC 388-78A-2520(1)(c)(2)

Licensee failed to ensure one staff met the Washington State qualifications and requirements to be an assisted living facility administrator.

Garbage and refuse disposalWAC 388-78A-2970(1)(c)(ii)(iii)

Licensee failed to maintain one outdoor garbage container.

VentilationWAC 388-78A-3000(3)

Licensee failed to ensure window screens were appropriately placed and maintained on 17 exterior windows.

Maintenance and housekeepingWAC 388-78A-3090(1)(a)(c)(d)

Licensee failed to provide a clean, safe, and well-maintained environment.

Aug 31, 2023Investigation

Includes information from both the initial investigation report (27813) and a subsequent cover letter stating that deficiency 27813 and 35920 were corrected as of 2024-02-07.

Medication servicesWAC 388-78A-2210

Facility failed to administer medication as ordered for 1 of 3 residents. Medication was received by facility but not transcribed to the eMAR and remained in the medication cart unopened.

Aug 30, 2023Fire

Inspection on 08/30/2023 confirmed all previous violations noted during the 07/13/2023 inspection have been corrected.

Power SupplyIFC 604.4.2

Wellness Center has a power strip plugged into another power strip.

Extension CordsIFC 604.5

Extension cords in use in resident room 287 and the activity room (by exit door, plugged into power strip).

RecordsIFC 607.3.3.3

Facility unable to provide documentation for annual and semi-annual hood cleaning.

Inspection and MaintenanceIFC 705.2

Business Office fire door has been modified with a bolt lock and different handle.

Door OperationIFC 705.2.4

Six doors (Kitchen, Elevator, Storage, Housekeeping, Private Dining, Sprinkler room) failed to close/latch properly.

Systems Out of ServiceIFC 901.7

Facility failed to have fire watch personnel on the NOC shift.

Extinguishing System ServiceIFC 904.12.5.2

Facility unable to provide service reports for kitchen suppression system for the past 12 months.

Inspection, Testing and MaintenanceIFC 907.8

Fire alarm panel yellow tagged; monitoring not signaling out and smoke sensitivity overdue.

Means of Egress IlluminationIFC 1008.1

Emergency lights failed testing in room 257, laundry room, and Health/Wellness Director's office.

Securing Compressed Gas ContainersIFC 5303.5.3

Resident room 271 has unsecured oxygen bottles.

Multiplug AdaptersIFC 604.4

Resident room 287 has an unapproved multi plug adapter plugged into an extension cord.

InstallationIFC 604.4.3

Power strips in the Wellness Center (1st floor) and Sales Manager's Office (1st floor) are dangling by their cords.

Unapproved conditionsIFC 604.6

Wellness Center has a cable box without a cover on it.

Owner's ResponsibilityIFC 701.6

Facility unable to provide record of annual fire wall inspection and/or repairs.

Hold-Open Devices and ClosersIFC 705.2.3

Activity Manager's office has a broken door closure.

Inspection, Testing and MaintenanceIFC 901.6

Missing escutcheon rings on sprinkler heads, dirty sprinkler heads, and painted sprinkler head found in various locations.

Testing and MaintenanceIFC 903.5

Facility unable to provide documentation for quarterly sprinkler reports.

Portable Fire ExtinguishersNFPA 10

Maintenance for fire extinguishers in elevator room and activity room not completed.

MaintenanceIFC 915.6

No documentation showing CO detector testing in past 12 months.

Power TestIFC 1031.10.2

Facility unable to provide documentation of 90-minute annual emergency lighting test.

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References & Resources

EveryPlace is a research directory. Facility information is compiled from public sources — Medicare.gov, state licensing portals, Google Places, and publicly available street-level imagery. Listings do not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or advertisement, and we do not accept payment for placement. Families should verify all details directly with the facility and the original sources linked above before making any care decisions. See our Research Policy for our editorial standards, correction process, and image-removal policy.

Safer Alternatives Nearby

Based on current clinical data, we identified 6 nearby facilities within 10 miles that may offer a stronger care environment. We encourage families to compare options carefully.

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