The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care
Save10845 West Gem St., Crystal River, FL 34428
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care offers competitive pricing designed to provide quality care alongside affordability. For a semi-private room, residents can expect a monthly cost of $2,400, which is notably lower than the average rate in Citrus County at $2,673 and the broader state average of $3,009. Those opting for a one-bedroom accommodation will find the facility's rate of $2,800 significantly more economical compared to Citrus County's average of $3,577 and Florida's overall average of $3,864. This pricing structure not only highlights The Gardens' commitment to accessible senior living but also underscores its value within the local context.
| Floor plans | The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care | Citrus County | Florida |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Private | $2,400 | $2,673 | $3,009 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,800 | $3,577 | $3,864 |
What level of care are you interested in?

Assisted Living

Memory Care

Independent Living

Skilled Nursing Facility

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)CCRC

Other
The Gardens Assisted Living facility in Citrus County, Florida, attracts a wide range of experiences from families and visitors who have interacted with the campus over the last several years. On one hand, there are frequent assurances of warmth, compassion, and a home-like atmosphere. Visitors describe smiling patients, friendly greetings, and an administration that is responsive and actively making improvements. Several accounts highlight Ali, the administrator who has led changes at the facility, with many reviewers praising her dedication, her heart for residents, and the sense that substantial progress has been made under new leadership. In these voices, the building feels more like a community that cares, with cosmetic updates, a renewed focus on resident comfort, and staff who seem more engaged and available.
Yet a substantial portion of the feedback paints a more troubling picture of daily operations, resident safety, and financial management. A recurring complaint centers on administrative and ownership issues that allegedly affect residents and subcontractors alike. Reviewers report delays in paying subcontractors, chronic on-hold phone calls, and voicemails or emails that go unanswered. In some cases, there are serious concerns about the handling of funds and rent, including back-payments, unexplained rent increases, and disputes over payments tied to a power of attorney. One account chronicles a situation where months passed without proper disbursement of funds, even as the resident's finances were being managed by a court-appointed representative, leading to long, unsatisfactory cycles of communication with both on-site staff and corporate representatives.
The safety and care quality inside the facility are another focal point of contention. Several reviewers allege that hygiene standards have fallen short: dirty floors and bathrooms, flies in the rooms, and the perception that certain areas of the building are not properly cleaned or prepared for new residents. There are also alarm bells about medication management, with claims that medications were mishandled or not administered on schedule, and even instances of residents or family members having to step in to administer care themselves when staff were unavailable or unprepared. In some reviews, caregivers and residents who require constant monitoring appear to be at risk due to limited staffing, which allegedly leaves staff stretched thin and unable to consistently attend to every resident's needs. There are mentions of unexplained injuries and reported conditions that suggest gaps in care.
There are particularly charged accounts about resident-to-resident interactions and the handling of disruptive behavior within the community. One post describes a situation involving a resident who has repeatedly displayed violent behavior, creating a tense and potentially dangerous environment for others and staff. The account notes that local authorities did not intervene, attributing the lack of action to the disagreements surrounding the resident's medical status and care needs. This has contributed to a broader perception that the facility is struggling to keep residents safe when confronted with complex behavioral issues, and that response from local services can be inconsistent in difficult cases.
Against these concerns, some reviewers recount positive, even glowing experiences. They speak of friendly staff, attentive administration, and a culture of welcome when visiting the facility. Several messages emphasize the importance of the new leadership and the visible changes that have been implemented: renovations, better cleanliness, improved odor management, and a more engaged caregiving team. The sentiment from these voices is that the Gardens has moved past a difficult period and is heading in a more positive direction, with residents who feel supported and families who feel reassured by renewed dedication from the management and staff.
There are also practical, day-to-day observations about the facility's layout and location. A tour review describes a space that feels tight and rooms that are smaller than preferred, with some concern about the building's vulnerability to flooding and its surrounding area. Another reviewer notes a lack of scheduled transportation for residents and limited opportunities for outside trips, which contributes to a sense that the facility may not meet every family's ideal expectations for activity and accessibility. These practical considerations contrast with the overall narrative of care quality, revealing the perennial tensions between comfort, independence, and logistical feasibility in an assisted living setting.
Within the mosaic of experiences, several accounts converge on a single, standout moment: the facility's leadership and the degree to which leadership changes have shaped the resident experience. Multiple reviews credit Ali, the current administrator, with driving meaningful improvements and bringing a sense of warmth and accountability to the community. The positive overlap with earlier praise suggests that, for many families, leadership visibility and proactive communication can be transformative - enough to turn around an impression of the place from highly negative to notably positive. Still, even among those who applaud the administrator's efforts, there is cautious acknowledgment that past issues linger in memory and may color current perceptions for some time.
One of the most sobering threads in the collective feedback is the detailed, negative account of a specific admission experience that culminated in serious concern and formal reporting. On a particular Friday in May 2023, a family member admitted their mother to the Gardens, only to find the facility underprepared: staff shortages, an unready room, flies, and inadequate help with dressing and medications. The family ultimately decided to move their mother to another facility after witnessing ongoing neglect during the weekend. The case culminated in a report to Adult Protective Services by the emergency responders and hospital staff who assessed the situation, reinforcing a perception that the facility had failed to meet basic standards of care and safety in that moment. This narrative stands in stark contrast to the many positive anecdotes and underscores how infrequent but severe incidents can shape the overall reputation of a care facility.
Taken together, the array of reviews presents a facility that is very much a work in progress, with clear signs of improvement in some areas and persistent, serious concerns in others. For families considering The Gardens, the message is nuanced: there are commendable efforts under new leadership and tangible upgrades that have been noticed by residents and visitors, alongside persistent complaints about financial management, staffing levels, hygiene, safety monitoring, and responsiveness. The strongest guidance from this collection of experiences is to conduct thorough, firsthand visits, ask pointed questions about staffing ratios, caregiver training, medication processes, and how leadership handles grievances and financial matters, and seek the most up-to-date information on any regulatory or protective service actions that may be ongoing. In the end, the Gardens' path appears to be shaped by the balance between effective, compassionate administration and the capability to sustain consistent, transparent operations that protect every resident's wellbeing.
The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care in Crystal River, FL is a premier senior living community that specializes in memory care. With a range of services and amenities, we provide the highest level of care and support for individuals with memory loss conditions such as Alzheimer's or dementia.
Our facility offers spacious accommodations with all the comforts of home. Residents can enjoy private bath tubs, cable or satellite TV, and access to high-speed internet throughout the premises. We have indoor common areas where residents can socialize and engage in various activities.
We understand that some residents may require short-term stays or respite care, and we are happy to accommodate their needs. Our staff is trained in providing specialized care for diabetics and those needing assistance with incontinence management. Medication management is also available to ensure residents receive their prescribed medications accurately and on schedule.
We place great importance on providing nutritious meals that cater to individual dietary needs. Our international cuisine menu offers a variety of options, including low/no sodium, no sugar dishes. Room service is available for those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own rooms.
To keep our residents engaged and stimulated, we offer a wide range of activities tailored to their interests and abilities. From art classes to brain fitness exercises, there's something for everyone. Residents also have opportunities to participate in community service programs, devotional activities offsite, gardening club sessions, karaoke nights, stretching classes, trivia games, and yoga or chair yoga sessions.
Our location is conveniently situated near various amenities. There are cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, and hospitals nearby—making it easy for residents to access essential services or enjoy leisurely outings with friends and family.
At The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care in Crystal River, FL , we strive to create a warm and supportive environment where seniors can live comfortably while receiving the care they need.
This part of Crystal River, Florida is a thriving community with convenient access to essential services for senior living. With several physicians and healthcare facilities nearby, including Bravera Health Seven Rivers and Seven Rivers Community Hospital, residents have easy access to quality medical care. There are also multiple pharmacies in the area such as Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy for medication needs. In terms of recreational activities, there are beautiful parks like King's Bay Park and Hunter Springs Park where seniors can enjoy nature. Additionally, there are a variety of dining options from casual eateries like Denny's to seafood restaurants like Charlie's Fish House Restaurant. Overall, this area offers a mix of healthcare services, recreational opportunities, and dining options making it a desirable location for senior living.
The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care offers competitive pricing designed to provide quality care alongside affordability. For a semi-private room, residents can expect a monthly cost of $2,400, which is notably lower than the average rate in Citrus County at $2,673 and the broader state average of $3,009. Those opting for a one-bedroom accommodation will find the facility's rate of $2,800 significantly more economical compared to Citrus County's average of $3,577 and Florida's overall average of $3,864. This pricing structure not only highlights The Gardens' commitment to accessible senior living but also underscores its value within the local context.
The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care is located at 10845 West Gem St., Crystal River, FL 34428 in Citrus County, Florida
The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care offers essential features that significantly enhance the well-being of residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Medication management ensures that residents receive their prescribed treatments on time, reducing confusion and promoting overall health stability, which is crucial for managing cognitive decline. Incontinence care provides dignity and comfort, addressing personal needs sensitively and allowing residents to focus on their daily activities without added stress or embarrassment. Additionally, brain fitness programs engage residents in stimulating activities designed to maintain cognitive function and memory recall, fostering a sense of achievement and enhancing their quality of life. Together, these services create a supportive environment that addresses both physical and mental health needs.
The Gardens Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care on seniors.fyi includes 4 photos including images showing landscaping, trees, garden, pathway, dining, flag, gazebo, nature, and more.
River Oaks Assisted Living
Crystal River, FL
Engaging activities and spiritual support options.
River Oaks Assisted Living reviews
River Oaks Assisted Living images
Cedar Creek Assisted Living
Crystal River, FL
Excellent resident care with attentive staff; apartment-style living available.
Cedar Creek Assisted Living reviews
Cedar Creek Assisted Living images
Sunshine Gardens/ Crystal River LLC
Crystal River, FL
Warm, home-like environment with attentive, friendly staff and a clean, well-maintained facility.
Sunshine Gardens/ Crystal River LLC costs
Sunshine Gardens/ Crystal River LLC reviews
Sunshine Gardens/ Crystal River LLC images
Sunshine Gardens Crystal River
Crystal River, FL
Competitive pricing with comprehensive memory-care services (24/7 supervision, medication management, and specialized programs).
Sunshine Gardens Crystal River costs
Sunshine Gardens Crystal River reviews
Sunshine Gardens Crystal River images
Pure Restoration Assisted Living Of Crystal River
Crystal River, FL
Personalized care with 24-hour supervision and medication management.
Pure Restoration Assisted Living Of Crystal River reviews
Pure Restoration Assisted Living Of Crystal River images
Crystal River Health And Rehabilitation Center
Crystal River, FL
Compassionate staff with strong family engagement and active programs, plus clean spaces.
Crystal River Health And Rehabilitation Center reviews
Crystal River Health And Rehabilitation Center images
The Reserve at Citrus
Lecanto, FL
Caring staff, good dining, and clean, renovated spaces with engaging activities.
The Reserve at Citrus costs
The Reserve at Citrus reviews
The Reserve at Citrus images
Brentwood Retirement Community
Lecanto, FL
Friendly staff, private apartments, and affordable pricing with a sense of community.
Brentwood Retirement Community costs
Brentwood Retirement Community reviews
Brentwood Retirement Community images
22 Remarkable Caregiver Support Groups Available Online and In-Person
Caregiver support groups are crucial for providing emotional and practical assistance to those caring for loved ones, offering resources, coping strategies, and a sense of community through various organizations and platforms. These groups help alleviate isolation and burnout while addressing the unique challenges faced by caregivers of individuals with specific conditions.
Understanding Medicaid Coverage for Assisted Living: A Comprehensive Guide
The guide outlines the complexities of Medicaid coverage for assisted living, highlighting significant state-to-state variations, limited coverage often restricted to personal care services, and the existence of specialized waivers for certain needs like memory care. It advises families to consult local Medicaid offices for options while emphasizing the importance of understanding state-specific regulations and facility policies.
How and When Medicaid May Cover Assisted Living Costs
Medicaid coverage for assisted living varies by state and is primarily available to low-income individuals, with eligibility dependent on strict income and asset limits. Some states offer HCBS waivers for specific services in assisted living, but families must generally cover room and board costs, and should verify facility acceptance of Medicaid while considering potential waiting lists.