Overview of The Waters on Mayowood Minnesota Department of Health ratings paint a split picture at The Waters on Mayowood, a 232-bed independent living community in Rochester.
The facility achieves top-tier performance on resident health outcomes (5 out of 5 stars, tied best statewide) and safety (5 out of 5, tied best), with resident Quality of Life scores reaching 81.0%, above the Minnesota average of 72.4%. Community Activities engagement reaches 92.5%; Safety and Privacy score 95.6%; Religion and Spirituality support scores 98.2%. Staffing Rating of 4 out of 5 ranks 72nd of 158 facilities.
However, Family Satisfaction drops to 3 out of 5 (ranked 52nd of 123), with Family Overall Satisfaction at 78.2% compared to Minnesota’s 83.7% average. Family satisfaction with Care measures 75.9%; with Cost measures 70.5% (the lowest satisfaction category).
The October 24, 2024 state inspection identified deficiencies offsetting these strong outcome ratings
Food preparation failed to comply with Minnesota Food Code (widespread violation).
The assisted living contract included provisions waiving the facility’s liability for resident health, safety, and personal property (widespread violation; a legal compliance issue).
One unlicensed staff member lacked required dementia training (isolated violation). The registered nurse failed to complete resident assessments following changes in condition for two residents (isolated violation).
Medication delegation instructions were not documented in writing for one resident (isolated violation).
Medication labeling and open dates were absent for two residents (isolated violation).
The facility’s deficiency rate reaches 3 per year, 54% worse than Minnesota’s average of 3.9 deficiencies annually. No complaint investigations or enforcement actions such as fines or license suspensions were imposed.
The Waters on Mayowood operates 232 beds at 87% occupancy (202 residents) in a mid-rise building with one and two-bedroom units (658–2,040 sq ft); pets allowed. Starting price: $3,395/month. Programs include The Waters Difference, Signature Programs, Intentional Design, Culinary Experience, and Thrive™. Dementia care-licensed; 89 residents in dementia programs. Chef-prepared dining, transportation, fitness, activities.
Walk score 32; 2.5 miles from Rochester center.
Not CMS-certified for Medicare/Medicaid.
The Waters on Mayowood demonstrates excellent resident health and safety outcomes with strong activity engagement, offset by documented compliance deficiencies in food safety, staff training, medication management, and legal contract terms alongside below-average family satisfaction on cost and care experience.
