Swope Ridge Geriatric Center in Kansas City, MO

5900 Swope Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64130

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

4 from 10 reviews
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Assisted Living Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Swope Ridge Geriatric Center

Pros

  • pro The facility is clean, well-maintained, free of bugs or rats, and loved by its residents.
  • pro A resident who has lived there for six years describes Swope Ridge Gardens as a good place to stay.
  • pro The care at the facility is excellent and the staff are very caring.
  • pro The staff treat residents like family and go the extra mile to lift their spirits.
  • pro The social worker provides helpful rehab resources and assists with food, utilities, and other supports.

Cons

  • pro The DON is disabled and can't even walk the floors.
  • pro The administrator allows the DON to run the facility instead of doing his job, leading to poor staffing.
  • pro The leadership is described as running the place down and driving away staff at the top.
  • pro Aides are perceived as uneducated and only needing a job, with minimal requirements that bring bad behaviors and attitudes.
  • pro The Sr staff are clueless about how the facility is actually run, with the aides running it and residents suffering from understaffing and underpayment.
  • pro The facility is dated and could use renovations, indicating there is a lot of room for improvement.
  • pro Some staff display a lack of professionalism, detracting from the quality of care.

Review

Swope Ridge Geriatric Center is best suited for seniors who want a resident-first environment in the heart of Kansas City, where attentive direct care and ongoing social activity anchor daily life. The cleanness and upkeep are repeatedly noted as strong, creating a sense of safety and normalcy in a setting that can feel chaotic elsewhere. Residents benefit from regular activities - art classes, yoga, and guest programs - that give structure and social contact, reinforced by a case worker who helps navigate services. For families prioritizing warmth from staff and tangible social supports over showroom polish, this community offers a practical, livable home base with genuine opportunities to engage and connect.

Those who should consider alternatives are primarily families seeking tightly run administration, consistent staffing, and up-to-date facilities. Several reviews flag leadership gaps at the top, with particular concern about the DON and administrator's effectiveness and visibility. Understaffing and turnover trends surface in complaints about aides and the overall operation, suggesting that the system can frustrate caregivers and residents alike. If reliability in governance, predictable staffing levels, and modern renovations are non-negotiable, it's prudent to explore options that demonstrate stronger, more consistent management and a clearer chain of command.

The strongest pros - clean facilities, a caring staff, and meaningful social programming - do offset some of the downsides for residents who thrive on personal attention and a family-like environment. Individuals vividly describe staff who treat residents with warmth and consideration, and families note that social workers coordinate rehab resources and supports that extend beyond immediate care. The presence of a caseworker who can facilitate access to services and the quiet, practical acts of kindness from staff can meaningfully improve mood and recovery prospects for individuals navigating illness or decline. In these respects, the center delivers real value where it counts most: daily human connection and hands-on help.

Yet the cons are persistent and weighty. Leadership concerns sit at the core: claims that the DON is limited by a disability, combined with administration that defers too much to a leadership pair perceived as ineffective, create a backdrop of instability. The resulting staffing challenges - underpaid aides, inconsistent follow-through, and perceived misalignment between senior staff and frontline care - translate into experiences where residents may feel overlooked or inconsistently cared for. For families, this translates into real risk: care quality can vary by shift, and morale among staff appears fragile, undermining the steady, reliable routines that elders depend on.

Nevertheless, the facility's positive attributes can be leveraged by careful, proactive oversight. The care delivered on the floor is frequently described as compassionate and attentive, with staff going the extra mile to make residents feel at home during difficult days. The social worker's involvement, the rehab resource access, and the practical supports around meals and utilities - these elements demonstrate a coherent care pathway when the system allows it to function. The building's dated condition is a legitimate drawback, but it is not a fatal one for all residents; for some, the intimate, neighborhood-style feel and the emphasis on personal connection outweigh the need for a modern, gleaming interior.

In making a decision, families should verify several critical factors before choosing. Ask for current staffing ratios on every shift and request direct conversations with front-line aides and charge nurses to gauge consistency. Seek a candid update on the DON's ability to supervise daily operations and the administrative plan for stabilizing leadership and reducing turnover. Tour the facility with a focus on how activities are run, how the caseworker integrates with daily care, and how residents interact with staff during routine tasks. Finally, assess whether the cost structure aligns with the level of care, and whether the community can provide a stable, long-term path that matches the resident's anticipated needs. Swope Ridge Geriatric Center is a practical, workable option for those who value care and community, but only if the incoming family is prepared to engage actively with administration and monitor staffing momentum over time.

Features

Housing

  • 240 resident community capacity 240 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

  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • 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.
  • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
  • 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.
  • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
  • 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.
  • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • 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.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • 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.
  • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
  • 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.

Transportation

  • Kansas City International (21 miles away) Kansas City International (21 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.

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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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.
  • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • 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

Swope Ridge Geriatric Center is an assisted living community located in Kansas City, MO. It primarily offers skilled nursing facility care for individuals in need of 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The center provides a range of amenities to enhance the residents' quality of life. These include a beauty salon, cable or satellite TV, community operated transportation for outings and appointments, a computer center, dining room with restaurant-style meals, fitness room for physical exercise, fully furnished accommodations, gaming room for leisure activities, garden area for fresh air and relaxation, housekeeping services to maintain cleanliness and orderliness in rooms, a kitchenette for convenience, move-in coordination assistance for an easy transition to the center, outdoor space for walking or enjoying nature views, private bathrooms in each accommodation unit, small library for reading enthusiasts, telephone access to stay connected with loved ones and healthcare providers if needed, wellness center offering healthcare services or resources, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet connectivity.

In terms of care services provided at Swope Ridge Geriatric Center, the staff ensures round-the-clock supervision to cater to the needs of residents. They assist with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing. The staff also manages medication administration and provides meal preparation according to special dietary restrictions such as diabetes diets. Transportation arrangements can be made for residents who require assistance getting to appointments or outings.

The community strives to provide a vibrant social environment by offering various activities tailored to residents' interests and preferences. These include concierge services to meet individual needs or requests, fitness programs to promote physical wellness and activity engagement among residents who are able-bodied or have limited mobility options available depending on their abilities), planned day trips to explore nearby attractions or attend events outside the community premises (subjected to availability), resident-run activities where residents can actively participate in organizing events or initiate hobbies that they enjoy pursuing collectively within the community, and scheduled daily activities to keep residents engaged and entertained.

Swope Ridge Geriatric Center boasts a convenient location with various amenities nearby. There are 8 cafes, 5 parks, 19 pharmacies, 5 physicians' offices, 15 restaurants, 2 places of worship, and 5 hospitals in close proximity, allowing residents and their families easy access to essential services and recreational options. Overall, Swope Ridge Geriatric Center provides a comprehensive range of care services and amenities aimed at enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life for its residents.

Nearby Places of Interest

Parks

  • Swope Park (0.5 miles)
  • Loose Park (2.9 miles)
  • Historic Hyde Park (3 miles)
  • Skiles park (3.2 miles)
  • Central Park (3.5 miles)
  • Washington Square Park (5.1 miles)
  • Harmon Park (5.3 miles)

Physicians

  • Research Medical Center: Yandrapu, Harathi MD (1 miles)
  • Mill Creek Park (3.3 miles)
  • The University of Kansas Hospital - Westwood Campus (3.9 miles)
  • Raytown Family Medical Care (4 miles)
  • KC CARE Health Center (4 miles)
  • The University of Kansas Cancer Center - South (5.5 miles)
  • Village Pediatrics (5.5 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (1.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.2 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.3 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.5 miles)

Restaurants

  • Go Chicken Go (2 miles)
  • BKS Artisan Ales (2 miles)
  • Jalapenos Mexican Restaurant (2.6 miles)
  • Bier Station (2.7 miles)
  • Winstead's (2.8 miles)
  • Bistro 303 (3.5 miles)
  • Beer Kitchen (3.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Central United Methodist Church (2.4 miles)
  • Trinity United Methodist Church (3.7 miles)
  • Resurrection Downtown (5.6 miles)
  • Word Of Grace Fellowship (6.2 miles)

Cafes

  • Front Range Coffeehouse & Provisions (2.6 miles)
  • McLain's Bakery (2.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (3 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.3 miles)
  • Broadway Cafe (3.5 miles)
  • Billie's Grocery (3.9 miles)
  • Filling Station (4.2 miles)

Hospitals

  • Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City (3.2 miles)
  • Kansas City VA Medical Center : Midwest Biomedical Research (3.3 miles)
  • Cambridge A Pre/Post (4.4 miles)
  • Truman Medical Center (4.9 miles)
  • Children's Mercy Research Institute (5 miles)
  • VA Honor Annex (5.3 miles)

Transportation

  • KC Streetcar (5.1 miles)
  • Amtrak Kansas City - Union Station (5.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Swope Ridge Geriatric Center?

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