Brookestone Gardens

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  • Interior

    A cozy seating area featuring two chairs and a lamp against a wooden wall.

  • Decor

    A modern living room with a large television, comfortable seating, and stylish decor.

  • Living Room

    A modern living room with comfortable seating and a large television.

  • Building

    A modern school building with a manicured lawn under a partly cloudy sky.

  • Architecture

    A modern building with large windows is illuminated in the evening, showcasing its architectural design.

  • Windows

    A spacious dining area with multiple tables and chairs, featuring modern lighting and high windows.

  • Dining

    A spacious dining area with tables and chairs, featuring large windows letting in natural light.

  • Landscaping

    A modern building entrance at sunset with landscaped surroundings and flags.

  • Kitchen

    A kitchen with a large wooden dining table and chairs, featuring a wall mural and wood flooring.

  • Lighting

    A spacious conference room with arranged tables and chairs under modern lighting.

  • Garden

    A beautifully landscaped courtyard with a wooden arbor and modern buildings on either side.

  • Entrance

    A modern building with a large entrance and an extended canopy under a partly cloudy sky.

  • Artwork

    A colorful breakroom with tables, chairs, and artwork on the walls.

  • Seating Area

    A cozy living room with comfortable seating and stylish decor.

Brookestone Gardens

2615 West 11Th Street, Kearney, NE 68845

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

4.1 from 17 reviews
5 stars
12
4 stars
0
3 stars
2
2 stars
0
1 stars
3

Assisted Living Independent Living Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Brookestone Gardens

Pros

  • pro The staff is kind and respectful and most importantly responsive when concerns arise.
  • pro The facility is beautiful and the residents apartments are so comfortable and warm.
  • pro Brookestone offers a space that feels as close to home as we could hope for.
  • pro Wonderful facility! Every staff member is full of smiles and sunshine.
  • pro The staff here are tremendous.
  • pro Lovely facility, caring/compassionate nursing and ancillary staff.
  • pro The staff seems to be pleasant to the residents and there's been no concern about rude nurses or poor health care.
  • pro The facilities also seem to be very clean.
  • pro Lots of activities, friendly staff.
  • pro Clean and safe.

Cons

  • pro The front desk staff, specifically one receptionist, was described as rude and condescending and not representative of the organization.
  • pro The facility was criticized as prison-like, with a reviewer suggesting Brookestone Correctional Facilities would be a more fitting name.
  • pro The meals were described as inedible, including servings of uncooked cream of wheat for multiple breakfasts.
  • pro Visitation was portrayed as highly restrictive, requiring appointments two hours in advance and forbidding spontaneous visits, with a rude phone line.
  • pro Children under 12 were not permitted to visit, causing distress to families.
  • pro Outings and activities required pre-approval and forms, with days of notice, limiting spontaneity.
  • pro The reviewer recommended other facilities (even the Buffalo County Jail) as better options.
  • pro Residents were described as isolated and hard to contact, with a call for video chat or outreach to reconnect.

Review

Brookestone in Kearney is a place that draws mixed but largely heartfelt opinions from families and residents. Several reviewers emphasize the warmth of the environment, the beauty of the facility, and the sense that the care team knows how to treat residents with kindness and respect. Families repeatedly note that the staff feel experienced and steady, delivering care that feels consistent over years. In these accounts, the atmosphere at Brookestone Gardens is described as comfortable and home-like, with apartments that feel warm and welcoming and a setting that many families would be happy to call a home away from home.

A number of commenters center their praise on the people who work there. They describe a staff that is not only competent but genuinely caring, often going the extra mile to respond to concerns quickly. The sentiment is that the tone in daily interactions is cheerful and supportive, with residents and families appreciating the everyday acts of kindness. One review highlights an LPN named Jonna who is singled out for the way she carries herself with warmth and attention to residents. Another reviewer emphasizes how the facility and its staff show care through consistent, attentive service, making it easier for families to trust that their loved ones are being looked after with both professionalism and heart. Overall, the consensus in these notes is that the staff's compassion and responsiveness are among the strongest assets of Brookestone Gardens.

Beyond the human touch, several reviewers commend the practical, day-to-day quality of life at Brookestone. They point to a robust schedule of activities, a clean and safe environment, and a general sense that the place is well kept. The combination of social programs, a peaceful setting, and responsive care contributes to a sense that residents can enjoy meaningful days. For families, this blend of activity, safety, and cleanliness helps reinforce their confidence that their loved ones are not just cared for in a clinical sense but are engaged and treated with dignity.

Not all reviews align with the otherwise positive tone, however. A more critical perspective paints a very different picture. One particularly strong critique describes the new facility as if it were more akin to a correctional setting than a traditional elder care environment. The reviewer uses a striking metaphor, suggesting the name Brookestone Correctional Facilities would be more fitting. They complain about the quality of meals, calling one breakfast "uncooked cream of wheat" on multiple occasions and labeling the food as inedible. The same reviewer also paints a picture of restrictive rules that feel more akin to institutional visiting policies than a family program, noting that visits must be scheduled well in advance and that spontaneous visits are off the table. The sense is that administrative practices and gatekeeping around visits create a sense of confinement that clashes with the home-like aspiration described by others.

That tension extends to specifics about visiting and outings. The reviewer recounts a system where visiting requires an appointment, and if you try to arrange it last minute, you encounter friction on the phone and a perceived lack of empathy. The policy of requiring two hours' notice for a visit, the prohibition on spontaneous or short-notice visits, and the stated restrictions on children under 12 visiting offer a stark contrast to the warm, family-centered care described elsewhere. The same critique mentions that outings - such as trips to Dairy Queen or birthday celebrations - must be requested days in advance, with formal permission processes in place, which can feel heavy-handed to families hoping for more casual opportunities to connect.

Within this mix of praise and critique, individual staff experiences also surface as a point of contention. One reviewer notes a front-desk employee named Kendra who left a lasting negative impression due to perceived rudeness and condescension, suggesting that such behavior is not what the administration would want representing their organization, even as other reviewers highlight the overall kindness of the staff. This contrast underscores an important theme: while many staff members are seen as compassionate and responsive, negative interactions with specific individuals can heavily color a family's overall impression of the facility.

A more hopeful thread appears in a separate note that recognizes Brookestone as a place with potential to connect families more effectively, even if it currently feels distant for some. The author who wrote about their grandparents' isolation asks for practical steps to bridge the communication gap, proposing ideas like a simple video chat setup or a door-side viewing system to reduce the sense of separation. They express a desire for outreach programs or technology-enabled communication to help families stay connected, especially for loved ones who struggle with technology. This plea reflects a broader wish for Brookestone to build on its strengths - care, safety, and a welcoming atmosphere - by making communication with families more accessible and less burdensome.

Taken together, Brookestone Gardens in Kearney emerges as a place of dual realities. Its most positive testimonials celebrate a caring, capable staff, a home-like environment, and a busy schedule of activities that keep residents engaged and comfortable. Yet a number of critiques spotlight significant policy and operational gaps: restrictive visitation rules, stringent advance approval for outings, and a dining experience that some residents and families find unacceptable. The best balanced view acknowledges both the warmth and the room for improvement, recognizing that a facility with such strong human elements can still be shaped by how it manages policy, communication, and everyday logistics - areas where families feel Brookstone could grow to better align with the compassionate care they already experience on the floor.

Features

Housing

  • 54 resident community capacity 54 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.
  • Independent Living Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
  • 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

  • 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

Brookestone Gardens in Kearney, NE is a premier assisted living community that offers a range of care services and amenities to enhance the quality of life for its residents. With both independent living and skilled nursing facility options available, individuals can choose the level of care that best suits their needs.

Residents at Brookestone Gardens enjoy a variety of amenities designed to promote comfort and convenience. These include a beauty salon, cable or satellite TV, community operated transportation, a computer center, dining room, fitness room, fully furnished living spaces, a gaming room, gardens, housekeeping services, kitchenettes in each unit, move-in coordination assistance, outdoor spaces to relax and socialize in, private bathrooms for added privacy and convenience, restaurant-style dining options with special dietary restrictions catered to.

Care services provided at Brookestone Gardens are comprehensive and personalized. The community offers 24-hour supervision for peace of mind and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing. Skilled staff members are available to provide transfers for those who need assistance. Special dietary restrictions are also accommodated to ensure all residents receive tailored meals that meet their individual needs. Medication management is another important service provided by the community to ensure proper administration and monitoring.

In addition to these amenities and care services, Brookestone Gardens takes pride in offering an engaging lifestyle for its residents. Planned activities such as fitness programs and resident-run activities keep individuals active and socially connected. Concierge services are available to assist with any additional needs or requests. Planned day trips allow seniors to explore local attractions while scheduled daily activities foster a sense of community among residents.

Located in Kearney, NE, Brookestone Gardens benefits from its proximity to various amenities within the surrounding area. Residents have access to 2 nearby cafes for dining options outside the community. There are also 11 parks nearby where they can enjoy outdoor recreational activities. In terms of healthcare resources, there are 10 pharmacies and 31 physicians nearby, providing convenient access to medical services. For social and spiritual needs, there are 10 places of worship within close proximity. In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, there are 7 hospitals located nearby.

Overall, Brookestone Gardens offers a vibrant and supportive community for individuals seeking assisted living in Kearney, NE. With its range of amenities, personalized care services, and convenient location, residents can enjoy a comfortable and enriching lifestyle at this exceptional community.

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Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Platte Valley Medical Group (0.4 miles)
  • Daniel P Slawski MD (1.6 miles)
  • New West Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery PC (1.6 miles)
  • New West Orthopaedic & Sports Rehabilitation (1.6 miles)
  • Heartland Surgery Center (1.7 miles)
  • Pedersen Ken C DDS (1.7 miles)
  • Spine & Orthopedic Surgery Associates (1.8 miles)

Parks

  • Yanney Heritage Park (0.4 miles)
  • Centennial Park (1.5 miles)
  • Child Development Center Playground (1.6 miles)
  • Kearny Recreation Supt (1.9 miles)
  • Union Pacific State Recreation Area (2 miles)
  • Memorial Diamond Park (2 miles)
  • Cottonmill Park (2.1 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Mission 87 (0.9 miles)
  • Christian Student Fellowship (1.2 miles)
  • Nebraska Synod ELCA (2.2 miles)
  • Prince Of Peace Catholic Church (2.3 miles)
  • First Church of God (2.3 miles)
  • Kearney E Free Men's Ministries (2.4 miles)
  • Gateway District United Methodist Church (2.5 miles)

Restaurants

  • Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers (1.6 miles)
  • Sakuro Teriyaki House (1.6 miles)
  • Cunningham's Journal on The Lake (1.6 miles)
  • Burger King (1.6 miles)
  • Long John Silver's (1.7 miles)
  • Kyoto (1.7 miles)
  • Angus Burgers & Shakes (1.7 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (1.7 miles)
  • Tex's Cafe (2 miles)

Transportation

  • Union Pacific (1.8 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • Platte Valley Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • Abc Drug & Gifts (2 miles)
  • ABC Drug & Gift (2 miles)
  • Medicap Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • U Save Pharmacy (2.5 miles)
  • Health Mart Pharmacy (2.5 miles)

Hospitals

  • Catholic Health Initiatives (2.3 miles)
  • Good Samaritan Hospital (2.3 miles)
  • Good Samaritan Hospital (2.3 miles)
  • Good Samaritan Hospital - CHI Health (2.4 miles)
  • CHI Health Good Samaritan Childbirth Education (2.4 miles)
  • St Johns (2.4 miles)
  • Richard Young Hospital (2.4 miles)

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