Southwood's Apartments

Pros

• The apartments are nice and very clean.
• The building is secure and three stories tall, with ample security measures for seniors.
• It is managed by the Volunteers of America.
• The staff are friendly and helpful.
• Maintenance is prompt and efficient.
• The complex is well kept and aesthetically pleasing.

Cons

• They complain that the building has no functioning elevator, forcing a resident to climb three flights of stairs.
• They say the place reeks of Depends and would only be okay if one could hold their breath to reach it.
• They report a lack of security or surveillance, with car break-ins occurring repeatedly.
• They allege a manager stole money and that tenants were charged an extra $10 to cover the loss.
• They describe the lobby's public bathroom as disgusting.
• They state the apartments are overpriced and they changed their mind about applying.
• They warn others not to let a loved one live there, citing mismanagement and safety concerns.

Review

SouthWoods Apartments presents itself as a welcoming option for seniors, older adults, and residents with disabilities, with a notable emphasis on independent living and a well-kept environment. Several reviewers highlight a strong sense of appeal in the property's concept: a three-story, secured building that prioritizes safety and comfortable living, a community that's well-suited for those who want to stay active in their later years. Comments repeatedly mention that the site is well maintained, clean, and nicely managed, and some residents praise the involvement of a familiar, supportive staff. The role of Volunteers of America as the managing organization is also a recurring point, with some residents and visitors expressing confidence in the on-site administration and the security-oriented design meant to put seniors at ease.

Beyond the surface positives, the experience at SouthWoods is clearly nuanced by a range of practical considerations. A number of reviewers emphasize that the complex is aimed at the elderly and disabled, with phrases like "Nice apartments for disabled and 60 and older" and "for independent living." The sentiment here is one of functional suitability: clean apartments, well-kept grounds, and staff who appear friendly and helpful. In particular, several accounts mention very clean living spaces and efficient maintenance, with one note describing "very clean and speedy maintenance repair" and another praising "friendly staff." In contrast, other voices flag the real-world challenges of living in a multi-story, older-property environment that can impact daily life in meaningful ways.

Accessibility and physical layout emerge as a central area of discussion. A number of comments celebrate the secure, welcoming atmosphere, yet there is a clear caveat about stairs and the absence or unreliability of elevator service. One reviewer laments that their "poor mother has to walk up and down 3 flights of stairs" and attributes this to being "cheap on getting elevators part," a problem compounded by odors and other irritants in certain parts of the building. This tension between a secure, well-maintained facility and the practical realities of an aging structure without reliable elevator access is a recurring theme. For some, the absence of an elevator or sufficient accessibility features is a deal-breaker, while others still view the property as a comfortable home when mobility allows.

Security and incidents of crime color the perception of safety in a more mixed way. Several comments note the appeal of "ample security measures" that help seniors feel at ease, but there are also troubling reports from other residents. One review recounts a pattern of car break-ins and a lack of security or surveillance, coupled with personnel turnover and allegations of financial impropriety involving a former manager and extra charges levied on tenants. The range of experiences - from reassurance about security features to warnings about theft and inconsistent management - creates a divided impression about safety at the property, underscoring the importance of current, transparent practices and vigilant, ongoing security measures for residents on fixed incomes.

Cleanliness and upkeep extend beyond individual apartments into common areas and facilities. While a general sense of cleanliness and maintenance is echoed by several reviewers, there are notable exceptions. One reviewer notes a lobby public bathroom that was "disgusting," signaling that while many areas remain well-kept, there are concrete instances where common facilities fall short of expectations. Another comment - an expressive one about a home's atmosphere - speaks to personal comfort and the softer, emotional aspects of living well: feeling at home often depends on the little moments and the company of family, which can be just as important as brick-and-mortar standards of cleanliness. Overall, cleanliness is seen as a strong point by some, while others point to specific areas needing improvement.

Affordability, eligibility, and the process of obtaining a unit are also part of the narrative. The sentiment about cost varies, with some acknowledging "very clean complex" and "excellent place for independent living," while others describe the price as too high or the application process as a barrier. The requirement to qualify to live there is mentioned explicitly in one review, highlighting the balance between a desirable, well-suited living arrangement for seniors, and the financial realities of fixed incomes that can make high rents or fees daunting. This tension between quality living and affordability helps explain why some potential residents view SouthWoods as an ideal fit, while others decide it's not the right time or price point for them.

Taken together, the collection of impressions presents SouthWoods Apartments as a place with a strong core proposition: a clean, well-maintained environment designed for independent senior living, managed by a respected nonprofit partner, with attentive staff and solid security features that many residents find reassuring. At the same time, the experiences reflect real challenges that matter to daily life - reliable elevator access for those who need it, consistent management and governance, financial transparency, and scrupulous upkeep of shared spaces such as the lobby bathroom. The most complete view suggests that SouthWoods can be a wonderful, home-like option for many seniors, particularly those who prize a secure, well-kept setting and have mobility that accommodates stairs or who can navigate alternative accessibility arrangements.

If you're considering SouthWoods, a practical approach would be to prioritize a few key questions and checks: confirm current elevator availability or alternatives for residents with limited mobility; ask about the frequency and reliability of security patrols and camera coverage in both public and car parking areas; inquire about the latest management team and any recent changes, to gauge stability and communication responsiveness; review the latest lease terms and any fees, especially if affordability is a concern; and tour the lobby, restrooms, and shared spaces to personally assess cleanliness and upkeep. For many, the right choice will depend on how well the facility aligns with immediate accessibility needs, budget, and the importance placed on security and staff responsiveness in daily life. The stories at SouthWoods paint a genuine picture of a community with strong strengths, tempered by practical cautions that are worth evaluating upfront.

This area of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma offers a variety of amenities that may be appealing for seniors looking to relocate. With several pharmacies, including Walgreens and CVS, located within a short distance, access to medications and healthcare services is convenient. In addition, there are numerous dining options such as Naylamp Peruvian Restaurant and Trapper's Fish Camp, providing a range of culinary choices. For those in need of medical care, there are physicians' offices like Matthews Rex R and hospitals like St Anthony Hospital nearby. Places of worship such as St Luke's United Methodist Church and Westmoore Community Church offer spiritual support within the community. Overall, this area provides essential services and a sense of community for seniors looking to make a comfortable transition into senior living in Oklahoma City.

Pharmacies

• Walgreens (1.2 miles)
• Walgreens (1.9 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (5.2 miles)
• Walgreens (5.2 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (5.2 miles)
• Homeland (5.3 miles)
• Walgreens (5.6 miles)

Restaurants

• Naylamp Peruvian Restaurant (1.5 miles)
• Taco Bell (1.8 miles)
• Whataburger (2.4 miles)
• Volcano Sushi Bar & Hibachi (2.5 miles)
• Trapper's Fish Camp (3.2 miles)
• Johnny Carino's (3.8 miles)
• Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers (3.9 miles)

Transportation

• Will Rogers World Airport Car Rental Center (1.5 miles)
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) (2.1 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (2.6 miles)
• Starbucks (4 miles)
• Starbucks (4.8 miles)
• Harvey Bakery & Kitchen (5.4 miles)
• Starbucks (6.1 miles)

Physicians

• Matthews Rex R (3 miles)
• Osso Spine And Pain Ma (3 miles)
• Dr Helen Diana O'Connor (3.8 miles)
• Oklahoma Pain Management (3.8 miles)
• Speechful Center (4.1 miles)
• Zeneida Vasquez DDS Pc (4.5 miles)
• SSM Health Neurosciences (4.8 miles)

Hospitals

• Kimzey Mike-Oklahoma Center-Orthopaedic (3.9 miles)
• Valir Rehabilitation Hospital (4.7 miles)
• St Anthony Hospital (5 miles)
• Presbyterian Hospital (5.9 miles)
• SSM Health St. Anthony Healthplex (6.1 miles)
• VA hospital (6.2 miles)
• The Children's Center (7.1 miles)

Places of Worship

• St Luke's United Methodist Church (5.6 miles)
• Westmoore Community Church (5.8 miles)
• First Baptist Moore (6.1 miles)