Sunterra Springs Independence

Save

Sunterra Springs Independence

19200 East 37Th Terrace S, Independence, MO 64057

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.5 from 101 reviews
5 stars
52
4 stars
12
3 stars
3
2 stars
3
1 stars
31

Assisted Living Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Sunterra Springs Independence

Pros

  • pro Sunterra Springs' staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive.
  • pro The facility is clean, inviting, and offers private rooms.
  • pro The therapy teams are top-notch, helping residents regain strength and return home.
  • pro The food is restaurant-quality and widely praised by residents.
  • pro Management and leadership are praised for communication and support.
  • pro Individual caregivers such as Amanda Sanders and Pamela Frazzier are repeatedly described as compassionate and dedicated.
  • pro The building provides a hotel-like, comfortable environment that makes rehab feel welcoming.

Cons

  • pro They claim the facility is dangerously understaffed, with too few nurses to care for residents.
  • pro They report call bells going unanswered for hours, leaving patients waiting and in pain.
  • pro They describe rude, unprofessional behavior from some nurses and CNAs toward residents.
  • pro They allege residents were overmedicated with narcotics and that crucial information wasn't communicated between staff.
  • pro They state the administration lacks leadership, transparency, and follow-through.
  • pro They claim safety issues, including neglect of wounds and poor monitoring leading to infections or injuries.
  • pro They note rooms and common areas were not consistently clean and housekeeping was lax.
  • pro They say reliance on agency staff reduced continuity of care and quality.
  • pro They report inconsistent or poor-quality meals, with food sometimes described as inedible.
  • pro They warn others not to send loved ones there, describing it as dangerous or abusive.
  • pro They describe discharges or transfers with inadequate equipment or medications.
  • pro They criticize marketing claims that masked actual care quality.

Review

Sunterra Springs Independence is best suited for seniors who are pursuing short- to medium-term rehabilitation with a strong emphasis on physical and occupational therapy, and for families willing to actively participate and monitor care. The wins come in the form of private rooms, hotel-like ambiance, consistently clean surroundings, and a therapy-focused environment that can translate into meaningful mobility gains. It works best when the goal is to regain independence after surgery or a serious setback and when family members can stay engaged with daily care planning. Those needing round-the-clock, uniformly reliable caregiving for complex medical needs or advanced dementia should consider other options or plan for closer on-site oversight.

On the plus side, Sunterra earns high marks for therapy teams that push patients to improve, and for staff who show genuine care in many shifts. The facility often receives rave notes about private rooms, welcoming dining spaces, and food that many guests describe as restaurant-quality. When therapy is in full swing, patients frequently walk away with tangible gains, and families frequently praise the consistency of the nursing and therapy staff in those success stories. The Executive Director and key coordinators are cited as responsive and engaged in many reviews, which helps families feel connected to progress and to care plans.

The flip side is significant and persistent: staffing variability, communication gaps, and concerning reports about care quality. Numerous accounts describe long waits for call lights to be answered, missed medications, and episodes where pain management or wound care was delayed or mishandled. Several families recount highs-and-lows with staff - some nurses and CNAs are lauded, while others are described as rude, overwhelmed, or inattentive. A recurring complaint is that short-staffed weekends and reliance on contract labor undermine consistency and safety, with some reviewers labeling the facility as unsafe for residents who require dependable oversight. Dementia- or cognition-related concerns are especially notable in the negative reviews, where behavior and response times were described as inadequate or harmful.

Despite the broad range of experiences, the best justification to lean in despite the risks is the therapy-centered track record and the personal warmth reported by many residents and families. WhenSunterra shines, it shines brightly: private, comfortable rooms; a bright, clean atmosphere; attentive wound care and skilled therapy teams; and a dining service that residents remember fondly. The contrast between the strongest rehab stories and the most critical accounts underscores a core tension: high-quality clinical care exists, but it is not uniformly delivered or consistently sustained across shifts, days, and staff mix. For families, this means that the offsetting pro from the strongest teams can be substantial, but only if a robust advocacy plan is in place.

For families evaluating Sunterra, practical diligence matters more than glossy impressions. Request detailed staffing metrics, especially nurse-to-resident ratios on nights and weekends, and insist on clear escalation paths if concerns arise. Before admission, secure a written care plan with milestones from the therapy team, and establish a regular communication channel with a designated social worker or director of nursing to avoid gaps in updates. Inquire about how medication and wound-care decisions are communicated to families, and whether there is consistent handoff between hospital discharge teams and the Sunterra medical staff. Finally, assess whether family members will be on-site enough to observe and reinforce routines, or whether a facility with more predictable staffing will be a safer long-term fit.

In sum, Sunterra Springs Independence offers a compelling rehabilitation option for those who prize strong PT/OT input, private accommodations, and a welcoming dining and social environment, provided there is an active family or advocate ensuring care quality. It can deliver excellent outcomes when therapy is well-muited to the individual and when staffing is stable and communicative. Yet the facility struggles in recurring ways with staffing consistency, timely responses, and reliable medical oversight that some residents require. If a family can tolerate and manage those gaps - with proactive oversight and clear care plans - Sunterra can be a very good choice. If not, exploring alternatives with more consistent 24/7 staffing and stronger day-to-day oversight is prudent.

Features

Housing

  • 38 resident community capacity 38 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Sunterra Springs Independence in Independence, MO is a skilled nursing facility that offers a variety of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The community provides fully furnished accommodations with cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and telephone services for residents to stay connected with loved ones.

The dining room offers nutritious meals prepared according to special dietary restrictions, ensuring residents receive the proper nutrition they need. Housekeeping services are provided to maintain a clean and comfortable living environment. Each resident has access to a kitchenette for their convenience.

Sunterra Springs Independence offers 24-hour supervision and assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is provided to ensure residents receive the correct medications at the right time. The community also coordinates with health care providers to ensure seamless healthcare services.

To promote mental wellness, there is a mental wellness program available for residents' emotional and psychological needs. Scheduled daily activities keep residents engaged and provide opportunities for socialization. Transportation arrangements can be made for medical appointments, ensuring that residents have access to necessary healthcare services.

The community is conveniently located near cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, and theaters, providing easy access to various amenities in the surrounding area.

Overall, Sunterra Springs Independence provides comprehensive care services in a comfortable setting where residents can feel at home while receiving the assistance they need.

Nearby Places of Interest

Theaters

  • AMC Independence Commons 2 (0.1 miles)

Restaurants

  • Fazoli's (0.2 miles)
  • Chili's Grill & Bar (0.2 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (0.3 miles)
  • Sonic Drive-In (0.5 miles)
  • Hereford House (0.8 miles)
  • Twin Peaks (0.9 miles)
  • On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina (0.9 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Lowe Drug at Centerpoint (0.2 miles)
  • Auburn Pharmacy (2.3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.7 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.2 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.2 miles)

Physicians

  • Midwest Heart & Vascular Specialists-CMC:210 (0.3 miles)
  • Centerpoint Ambulatory Surgery Center (0.3 miles)
  • Jackson County Neurosurgery Independence (0.4 miles)
  • Consultants in Gastroenterology (0.7 miles)
  • Ohs Compcare (1.1 miles)
  • Encompass Medical Group (1.5 miles)
  • Blue River Medical Group (1.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Corner Cafe (1.3 miles)
  • Scotters Coffee (2.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.7 miles)
  • Middle Ground Coffee (4.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (4.6 miles)
  • Lamar's Donuts (4.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (4.8 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Mark's Catholic Church (1.8 miles)
  • Beacon Heights Community of Christ (1.8 miles)
  • Community of Christ Temple (4.7 miles)
  • Word Of Grace Fellowship (7.2 miles)
  • Timothy Lutheran Ministries (7.4 miles)

Parks

  • Blue Springs Park (4.4 miles)
  • Rotary Park (5.6 miles)
  • Keystone Park (6.3 miles)
  • Skiles park (7.2 miles)

Hospitals

  • St Mary's Hospital (5.2 miles)
  • VA Honor Annex (5.2 miles)
  • Research Hospital (5.4 miles)
  • Truman Medical Center Lakewood (5.7 miles)
  • The Birds (5.7 miles)
  • Carondelot Health (6.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Sunterra Springs Independence?
What photos are available for Sunterra Springs Independence in Independence, Missouri?

Nearby Communities

  • The Gardens at Jackson Creek

    The Gardens at Jackson Creek

    Independence, MO

    4.6 from 95 reviews
    $1,195 to $1,295 / month

    pro Clean, inviting environment with friendly staff and engaging resident activities.

  • Villages Of Jackson Creek

    Villages Of Jackson Creek

    Independence, MO

    3.4 from 85 reviews
     

    pro Friendly, attentive staff and a safe, welcoming environment with engaging activities.

  • Villages Of Jackson Creek Memory Care

    Villages Of Jackson Creek Memory Care

    Independence, MO

     
     

    pro Extensive on-site amenities and 24/7 care, including meals, transportation, wellness, and activities.

  • Vintage Cooperative

    Vintage Cooperative

    Independence, MO

     
     

    pro Highly accessible 55+ cooperative with abundant nearby amenities (cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, hospitals).

  • Monterey Park Rehabilitation & Health Care Center

    Monterey Park Rehabilitation & Health Care Center

    Independence, MO

    3.4 from 122 reviews
     

    pro Attentive staff in a clean, well-maintained facility with pleasant grounds and good dining.

  • Ignite Medical Resort Blue Springs

    Ignite Medical Resort Blue Springs

    Blue Springs, MO

    4.6 from 105 reviews
     

    pro Attentive staff with helpful therapists and good amenities and meals.

  • Glendale at the Mansion

    Glendale at the Mansion

    Independence, MO

    4 from 38 reviews
    $794 to $899 / month

    pro Strong sense of community with regular social activities and attentive staff.

  • Independence Manor Care Center

    Independence Manor Care Center

    Independence, MO

    3.9 from 22 reviews
    $3,990 to $4,140 / month

    pro Excellent care with dedicated staff and transparent communication.

  • Olde Oak Tree Apartments

    Olde Oak Tree Apartments

    Independence, MO

    2.9 from 20 reviews
     

    pro Friendly staff and convenient bus route.

Related Resources

  • aid and attendance vaAn Extensive Exploration of the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit

    The VA Aid and Attendance benefit provides financial support to veterans needing assistance with daily living due to medical conditions or disabilities, augmenting standard VA pensions for services like in-home care. Eligibility is based on service duration, wartime status, income, and medical needs, with a detailed application process required to access funds for caregiving and home modifications.

  • senior move managementSenior Transition Services: Understanding Their Role, Cost, and Importance

    Senior move management services assist older adults in the relocation process by providing emotional support and organizational help, addressing unique challenges like downsizing and moving from long-term homes. These specialists collaborate with real estate agents and manage logistics, making the transition smoother for seniors and their families.

  • independent living vs assisted livingExploring the Path to Senior Living: A Comprehensive Look at Independent Living and Assisted Living

    The article examines senior housing options, detailing the distinctions between independent living and assisted living, along with the emerging "independent assisted living" model that blends both approaches. It highlights the importance of assessing individual needs, preferences, and financial factors in making informed decisions about suitable living arrangements for seniors.