DeSoto Palms is an assisted living community located in Sarasota, Florida. The community is designed to provide residential care for older adults who require help with daily activities while promoting as much independence as possible. Residents at DeSoto Palms have access to private or shared accommodations, communal dining facilities, and a range of amenities including an in-house chef, barber/beauty salon, and on-site laundry and dry-cleaning services. The facility emphasizes a safe, clean, and accessible environment, with spacious rooms and common areas for residents to enjoy.
The care and medical support services at DeSoto Palms are structured to address various health and lifestyle needs. Nursing support is available for 12 to 16 hours each day, assisting with medication management, diabetes care, incontinence care, and ambulatory care. Residents who need more comprehensive assistance can receive help with all activities of daily living, including full support for bathing, eating, dressing, and toileting. The community also provides occupational, speech, and physical therapy as part of its care offering. While DeSoto Palms does coordinate with external healthcare providers, including those at Saint Louis University Hospital if required, and supports seamless communication and care transitions, round-the-clock nursing is not available, which may be a consideration for those requiring 24-hour medical attention.
Memory care services are available for residents experiencing cognitive decline, although reviews note that the support for individuals with early dementia can sometimes be inconsistent, especially during the initial transition period. In addition, the facility maintains mental wellness programs to support emotional and psychological well-being, and social clubs and organized community activities offer opportunities for social interaction and engagement. The smaller dining areas on each floor foster a more community-oriented atmosphere, and meals are prepared with attention to dietary needs.
Transportation services at DeSoto Palms are designed to help residents maintain access to healthcare and community activities. Complimentary transportation is provided for scheduled group outings and medical appointments, while transportation arrangements can also be made for non-medical purposes, either as a complimentary service or at cost depending on the destination and timing. These options enable residents to attend healthcare appointments, participate in local events, and maintain regular connections with the broader Sarasota community.
Reviews from residents and their families generally highlight the positive aspects of DeSoto Palms, such as its well-kept facilities, responsive and friendly staff, varied activities, and strong lines of communication—particularly during periods like the Covid-19 pandemic. Some criticisms focus on limited overnight nursing, stricter meal times, and flexibility for residents with complex needs, as well as the cost of respite care. Despite these concerns, most feedback reflects satisfaction with the day-to-day care and the welcoming community at DeSoto Palms. As of early 2024, there have been no significant changes to care services according to publicly available information.
Costs at this community start at $2,450 and range up to $3,800. The average price in the community is $3,145, which is less than the average price in the area of $5,047. The cost of assisted living in this area is essentially the same as the cost throughout the state. If the resident needs other services, additional services may increase the monthly cost.
