Ventura Hills
Save1207 Jackson Keller Road, San Antonio, TX 78213
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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Gemstone Senior Living is described as an excellent facility with attentive staff. Monica Ponce is professional and demonstrates excellent management skills. The new management team responds quickly to concerns and continues to improve the facility. Alma is excellent and goes beyond her job description. There is a feeling of a large, caring family at Gemstone Memory Care. The facility has added an Activity Coordinator in memory care, leading to greater resident participation. Ramona, the head nurse, is awesome and always available to communicate when there are concerns. The owners, James and Suzanne, are viewed as genuinely invested in residents' care and well-being. The Gardens of Castle Hills is praised for a vibrant, clean community with daily activities and friendly staff. Families feel their loved ones are safe, happy, well cared for, and cared for by the amazing staff.
They reported a waterline break that left his room ankle-deep in water. The elevator was not working for a month. The power went off twice and the backup generator did not work. He fell twice in the bathroom and lay on the floor for hours with no rescue. Staff stole items from his room. One reviewer would not recommend Gemstone. He fell numerous times, breaking his hip. Nightly checks were not performed and cleaning staff did not clean his room or bathroom. The facility was described as dead with no activities. There was a roach infestation and a lack of professionalism and compassion from the Charge nurse and RCC. The reviewer lost her mother's deposit and first month's rent when moving to another facility.Across the many notes left by families and residents, Gemstone and its Castle Hills campuses emerge as a place of striking contrasts. Some reviewers describe a warm, caring environment where staff feel like family, meals are good, and the care is eventually aligned with what families are hoping for. Others recount serious safety lapses, maintenance failures, and a sense that at times the community could be a dangerous or neglectful place. Taken together, the stories sketch a community that has experienced significant turbulence, but one that has also sparked evident changes in leadership and staffing in an attempt to improve.
Several accounts focus on safety and maintenance nightmares. One relative recalls a waterline break that left ankle-deep water in a resident's room, an elevator that sat out of service for a month, and two power outages in which a large backup generator did not kick in. In that same vein, there are painful memories of a father-in-law who fell in his bathroom not once but twice and lay on the floor for hours before anyone could help. A troubling note also mentions items being stolen from a resident's room. These reports paint a picture of a facility wrestling with essential systems and security while residents are in care, and they show how vulnerable families feel when basic protections seem to fail.
In the midst of those hard experiences, several reviews still praise the facility's strengths. A number of comments describe an excellent facility with attentive staff, good food, and affordability that makes care accessible for families. One post emphasizes the sense of inclusion and the feeling that residents are "part of a family," with particular appreciation for staff who are consistently kind and patient. There are repeated acknowledgments that management responsiveness matters: when problems are raised, some reviewers note that management has listened and tried to implement improvements. Still, there is a counterpoint in later updates, reflecting a shift in perception depending on the timeframe and the particular leadership in charge.
Management changes appear to be a recurring thread. Several reviewers singled out Monica Ponce as professional and effective, noting timely responses and a willingness to go the extra mile. The memory-care leadership under Liz is highlighted for continuing to implement improvements, and Alma is described as excellent and proactive, often going beyond the job description. The overall sentiment toward management evolves: some reviews applaud the new leadership at the top and the addition of more staff, while others recount frustration with ongoing communication gaps or with experiences that felt stagnant before changes were made. One reviewer even notes a large "family" feeling within Gemstone Memory Care that was reinforced by staff who seem genuinely invested in residents' well-being.
Not all the feedback is positive about every moment or location. A number of voices describe experiences that lowered confidence: a caregiver noting roach infestations and what they perceived as a lack of professionalism and compassion from certain nurses, and another account detailing a parent's disappointment with "a dead" activity scene - where halls and common spaces appeared quiet and empty, with little happening in terms of activities or engagement. Some families recount meetings with management that failed to address persistent concerns, leading to decisions to move a loved one to another facility. One family, for example, describes being told the community was "dead" and watching as their mom remained unhappy even after initial promises of improvement; ultimately, they moved her to a different community and incurred losses like a deposit and first month's rent. These narratives underscore a critical point: the experiential spectrum can be wide even within the same brand, depending on unit, staff, and timing.
Amid the mixed reviews, several stories highlight sincere gratitude for staff who contribute to a positive daily life. Across multiple posts, residents' families emphasize friendly, caring caregivers who treat residents well, help them feel valued, and provide meaningful daily activities. In particular, memories of lively engagement come from those who witnessed new activity coordinators, more purposeful programming, and staff who build strong relationships with the people they serve. One family member praised a head nurse, Ramona, for being available and engaged, with a particular moment where a 99-year-old resident participated in a painting activity and clearly enjoyed the moment. The sense of community - caregivers who remember residents' names, personal interactions that feel genuine, and activities that bring joy - recurs as a highlight in multiple testimonials, even when other aspects of care are called into question.
Looking at the broader landscape of Castle Hills, there are additional testimonies that reinforce the idea of improvement over time, especially as new ownership and new leaders take the reins. Several reviewers note that The Gardens of Castle Hills has transformed under new ownership, with families expressing appreciation for the care environment and the approachability of leaders like Eduardo De Hoyos during tours. Some reviews describe a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere with smiling staff and clean facilities, and families who toured the community leave encouraged by the prospects of a facility that offers a robust slate of activities. Yet even here, the thread of caution remains for some: one reviewer contrasts a past sense of activity and community with a current perception that needs continued effort to maintain momentum and engagement.
In summary, the experiences captured in these notes depict a community that has faced serious safety and maintenance challenges, including water damage, power outages, failed back-up systems, falls, and theft. At the same time, many families found gems in the staff who show warmth, dedication, and a willingness to improve, and they point to management changes and new program initiatives as signs of progress. The stories convey a facility that can deliver a strong, family-oriented environment and meaningful care when leadership is attentive, staffing is sufficient, and safety protocols are robust. For families considering Gemstone or its Castle Hills settings, the message is clear: visit multiple times, ask pointed questions about maintenance, safety checks, and staffing ratios, and look for current signs of ongoing improvement in memory care programming, staffing continuity, and transparent communication.
31 resident community capacity
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.
Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.
Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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 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 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.
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 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.
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 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.
San Antonio International (3 miles away)
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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. Mild cognitive impairment"Mild cognitive impairment" is important for seniors because it is an early stage of cognitive decline that can potentially progress to more severe conditions such as dementia. Recognizing and addressing mild cognitive impairment can help seniors receive appropriate care and support to maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.
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. Specialized memory care programmingSpecialized memory care programming is crucial for seniors with cognitive impairments such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life. 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 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. 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. 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 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.Ventura Hills in San Antonio, TX is a premier assisted living community specializing in memory care and respite care services. With a range of amenities and care services available, residents can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
The community offers fully furnished accommodations with cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and telephone access. Each resident has access to a kitchenette for convenience and can enjoy their meals in the on-site dining room with restaurant-style service. Housekeeping services are provided to ensure a clean and tidy living environment.
Ventura Hills boasts beautiful outdoor spaces including gardens for residents to relax and enjoy nature. A small library is available for those who love reading and intellectual stimulation. Additionally, the community offers move-in coordination services to ease the transition process for new residents.
Residents at Ventura Hills receive 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is also provided to ensure that residents take their medications as prescribed. The dedicated staff also offers special programming for individuals with mild cognitive impairment or specialized memory care needs.
The community caters to individual dietary needs including diabetes diets and special dietary restrictions. Meal preparation and service are provided by trained staff members who prioritize nutrition while delivering delicious meals.
To keep residents engaged and entertained, Ventura Hills organizes resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities. This ensures that there is always something enjoyable happening within the community.
Conveniently located, Ventura Hills has several amenities nearby including cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals. This allows residents easy access to various services and entertainment options both within the community and in the surrounding area.
Overall, Ventura Hills provides a caring and supportive environment where residents can receive high-quality care while enjoying an active lifestyle filled with engaging activities.
Ventura Hills is located at 1207 Jackson Keller Road, San Antonio, TX 78213 in Bexar County, Texas
The range of services offered at Ventura Hills, including assistance with dressing, bathing, and transfers, directly supports residents in maintaining their dignity and independence while addressing the challenges posed by dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Medication management ensures that residents receive their prescriptions accurately and on time, reducing the risk of confusion or missed doses. Meal preparation and service cater to dietary needs while encouraging social interaction during mealtimes. Activities of daily living assistance fosters engagement in routine tasks, promoting a sense of normalcy and accomplishment. The 24-hour supervision provides safety and immediate support for those who may wander or require help at any moment. Furthermore, a mental wellness program along with specialized memory care programming is essential for providing cognitive stimulation tailored to each resident's level of impairment, thus enhancing quality of life through individualized care plans focused on both physical and mental well-being.
Ventura Hills on seniors.fyi includes 5 photos including images showing interior, landscaping, bedroom, tree, architecture, parking, patio, outdoor seating, and more.
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