Comprehensive Review: Missouri Slope, Bismarck, ND

• Overview

• Services offered
  • Skilled nursing care
  • Short-term rehabilitation
  • Memory care
  • Basic care
• Amenities
  • Dining
  • Recreational areas
  • Wellness programs
• Daily activities
• Resident accommodations
• Pricing information
• Payment options
• Comparison to similar Bismarck facilities
• Management and staff
• Unique features
• Community reputation and recognition
  • Awards and recognitions
  • Community involvement
• Resident and family testimonials
• Visitation and family involvement
• Admission process
• Conclusion

Overview

Missouri Slope is a senior living facility at 2500 Valley View Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501. This review covers its services, amenities, activities, pricing, and reputation to help families evaluate options for senior care in the Bismarck area.

Services offered

Missouri Slope provides several levels of care to match different resident needs:

Skilled nursing care

• 24-hour nursing supervision
• Medical care and medication management
• Post-hospital recovery
• Long-term care for chronic conditions
• Wound care and specialized treatments
• Short-term rehabilitation

Physical therapy

• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Post-surgery recovery programs
• Stroke recovery
• Orthopedic rehabilitation
• Memory care

Missouri Slope offers specialized care for residents with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The program includes a secure, purpose-built environment with staff trained in dementia care, structured routines, and person-centered approaches.

Basic care

• For residents who need help with daily activities but not full nursing care: assistance with bathing, dressing, and toileting; medication management; health monitoring; and 24-hour staff availability.
• Amenities
• Missouri Slope offers common spaces and services to support residents' daily life:
• Dining

Restaurant-style dining rooms with three meals daily plus snacks, menu variety including seasonal options, special dietary accommodations, and a private dining room for family meals.

Recreational areas

• Community living rooms and lounges, library, game rooms, chapel, beauty salon and barbershop, landscaped courtyards with walking paths, and raised garden beds for resident gardening.
• Wellness programs
• Therapy gym with specialized equipment, exercise programs for different ability levels, health monitoring, visiting healthcare specialists, and wellness education.
• Daily activities

The facility maintains a calendar of programs including daily fitness classes, arts and crafts, musical performances, educational lectures, book clubs, religious services, cooking demonstrations, gardening, games, movie nights, community outings, shopping trips, intergenerational programs with local schools, holiday celebrations, and pet therapy visits.

Resident accommodations

Missouri Slope offers private rooms, semi-private rooms (shared with one roommate), and specialized memory care accommodations. All rooms include a private or shared bathroom with safety features, individual climate control, emergency call systems, cable TV, telephone, personal storage, and weekly housekeeping and laundry service.

• Pricing information
• Care costs vary based on the level of care and room type. Skilled nursing care in a private room runs $380–$405 daily ($11,400–$12,150 monthly) and includes 24/7 nursing, meals, activities, and housekeeping. Semi-private skilled nursing is $320–$345 daily ($9,600–$10,350 monthly). Memory care is $395–$425 daily ($11,850–$12,750 monthly). Basic care ranges from $180–$240 daily ($5,400–$7,200 monthly). Short-term rehabilitation is $450–$500 daily, with length of stay varying.
• Additional fees may include medication management ($200–$300 monthly), personal care supplies ($50–$150 monthly), therapy services not covered by insurance ($40–$120 per session), cable TV and telephone ($50–$75 monthly), and transportation beyond scheduled service ($25–$50 per trip).
• Payment options
• Missouri Slope accepts Medicare (for qualified stays), Medicaid (for eligible residents), long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and private pay. The facility has a financial counselor on staff to help families understand payment options and determine eligibility for financial assistance.
• Comparison to similar Bismarck facilities

Facility

• Type of care
• Daily rate range
• Key features
• Distinguishing factors
• Missouri Slope
• Skilled nursing, memory care, basic care, rehabilitation
• $180–$500

Comprehensive care levels, non-profit, community integration

• Faith-based mission, established reputation, extensive therapy services
• Baptist Health Care Center
• Skilled nursing, basic care
• $270–$450
• Faith-based care, therapy services

Smaller facility, intimate setting

St. Gabriel's Community

• Skilled nursing, assisted living, independent living
• $200–$480
• Continuum of care campus, extensive amenities
• Part of CHI network, larger campus with multiple buildings
• Edgewood Village
• Assisted living, memory care
• $150–$350
• Primarily assisted living focused, newer facility
• Prospera on Sunset
• Assisted living, basic care
• $140–$300
• Modern design, focus on active seniors
• Limited medical services, more independent population
• Missouri Slope's pricing is competitive in the Bismarck market, particularly given its non-profit status and range of care options. Its daily rates may run slightly higher than some competitors, but the extensive therapy services and established track record often account for the difference.
• Management and staff

Missouri Slope is managed by an experienced leadership team: an Executive Director with 15+ years in long-term care, a Director of Nursing with clinical expertise, a Medical Director overseeing resident care standards, a Therapy Director managing rehabilitation services, an Activities Director, and a Dietary Director.

Staff receive ongoing training in clinical care techniques, dementia care approaches, emergency response, infection control, customer service, and person-centered care. The facility meets or exceeds state staffing ratio requirements, with additional staff in specialized units like memory care. Staff turnover is below industry average, helping ensure consistent care and resident familiarity.

• Unique features
• Non-profit status: Revenue is reinvested into facility improvements and staffing rather than shareholder returns.
• Faith-based mission: The facility's Christian foundation shapes its approach to care and spiritual support, while welcoming residents of all faiths.

Comprehensive therapy program: Extensive rehabilitation services with specialized equipment and dedicated staff.

• Community integration: Relationships with local schools, churches, and organizations that provide regular interaction opportunities for residents.
• Continuity of care: Residents can move between different care levels on the same campus as needs change.
• Dedicated memory care: Specialized activities and environmental design based on current best practices in dementia care.
• Community reputation and recognition
• Missouri Slope has established a solid reputation in the Bismarck community:
• Awards and recognitions
• 5-Star Rating from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

Recognition for quality improvement initiatives from the North Dakota Department of Health

Excellence in Care award from the North Dakota Long Term Care Association

Recognition for staff development programs and retention strategies

Community involvement

Hosts community health events and educational seminars, partners with local universities for healthcare student training, participates in senior advocacy initiatives, and contributes to local charitable causes.

Resident and family testimonials

"The rehabilitation team at Missouri Slope helped my father regain his strength after his stroke. Their patience and expertise made all the difference in his recovery." – Mary K., Resident's Daughter

"I was nervous about moving into a nursing facility, but the staff at Missouri Slope has made it feel like home. They know me as a person, not just a patient." – Robert J., Resident

"Mom's dementia had progressed to the point where we couldn't safely care for her at home. The memory care unit at Missouri Slope provides the secure environment she needs while still treating her with dignity and respect." – Thomas L., Resident's Son

"As a retired nurse myself, I have high standards for care. Missouri Slope meets those standards consistently. The staff is responsive, knowledgeable, and truly caring." – Elizabeth M., Resident

Visitation and family involvement

Missouri Slope encourages family involvement through open visitation hours (with health safety protocols as needed), regular care plan meetings with family participation, a family council that provides input on operations, educational resources for families on aging and care issues, family notification systems for important updates, special events welcoming families, and private spaces for family gatherings and celebrations.

Admission process

The admission process includes an initial facility tour, pre-admission assessment of care needs, financial review and payment planning, completion of admission paperwork, care plan development, move-in coordination, and orientation to the facility and services. The admissions team works with families to ensure a smooth transition and can help coordinate with hospitals or other care providers for transfers.

Conclusion

Missouri Slope is a non-profit, faith-based senior living facility that emphasizes quality care, engagement, and resident dignity. Its pricing is competitive for the Bismarck area, especially considering the range of services available. The facility has a solid reputation in the healthcare community and consistently provides high-quality senior care.

Families considering Missouri Slope should schedule a tour to experience the community firsthand and discuss specific care needs with the management team.

Specialized dementia care, secure environment, all services

Basic Care

$180-$240

$5,400-$7,200

Assistance with daily living, meals, activities

Short-Term Rehabilitation

$450-$500

Varies by length of stay

Intensive therapy services, nursing care, all amenities

Additional fees may include:

• Medication management: $200-$300 monthly
• Personal care supplies: $50-$150 monthly
• Therapy services (if not covered by insurance): $40-$120 per session
• Cable TV and telephone: $50-$75 monthly
• Transportation to appointments: $25-$50 per trip (beyond scheduled transportation)

Payment Options

Missouri Slope accepts multiple payment sources:

• Medicare (for qualified stays)
• Medicaid (for eligible residents)
• Long-term care insurance
• Veterans benefits
• Private pay

The facility also has a financial counselor on staff to help families navigate payment options and determine eligibility for financial assistance programs.

Comparison to Similar Bismarck Facilities

Facility

Type of Care

Daily Rate Range

Key Features

Distinguishing Factors

Missouri Slope

Skilled Nursing, Memory Care, Basic Care, Rehabilitation

$180-$500

Comprehensive care levels, non-profit status, community integration

Faith-based mission, established reputation, extensive therapy services

Baptist Health Care Center

Skilled Nursing, Basic Care

$270-$450

Faith-based care, therapy services

Smaller facility, more intimate setting

St. Gabriel’s Community

Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, Independent Living

$200-$480

Continuum of care campus, extensive amenities

Part of CHI network, larger campus with multiple buildings

Edgewood Village

Assisted Living, Memory Care

$150-$350

Primarily assisted living focused, newer facility

The Gardens at Willow Creek offers personalized senior living in a home-like environment that supports individual well-being. This community is for seniors who do not need skilled nursing care but can benefit from help with daily activities, unlike traditional nursing homes. Residents enjoy social activities, wellness programs, and personalized support, which helps them feel a sense of belonging and independence. It is a place for residents to thrive, committed to

Prospera on Sunset

Assisted Living, Basic Care

$140-$300

Modern design, focus on active seniors

Limited medical services, more independent population

Missouri Slope’s pricing is competitive in the Bismarck market, especially considering its non-profit status and comprehensive care options. While daily rates may be slightly higher than some facilities, its extensive therapy services and established reputation often account for the cost difference.

Management and Staff

Missouri Slope is managed by an experienced leadership team with expertise in senior healthcare:

• Executive Director with 15+ years in long-term care administration
• Director of Nursing with extensive clinical background
• Medical Director who oversees resident care standards
• Therapy Director managing rehabilitation services
• Activities Director coordinating engagement programs
• Dietary Director overseeing nutritional programs

Staff members receive ongoing training in:

• Clinical care techniques
• Dementia care approaches
• Emergency response
• Infection control
• Customer service excellence
• Person-centered care philosophies

The facility meets or exceeds state requirements for staffing ratios, with extra staff in specialized units like memory care. Staff turnover is lower than the industry average, which helps ensure consistent care and resident familiarity.

Unique Features

Several aspects distinguish Missouri Slope from other facilities in the Bismarck area:

• Non-Profit Status: As a not-for-profit organization, Missouri Slope reinvests revenue into facility improvements and staffing rather than shareholder returns.
• Faith-Based Mission: While welcoming residents of all faiths, the facility’s Christian foundation influences its approach to care and spiritual support.
• Comprehensive Therapy Program: Offers extensive rehabilitation services, with specialized equipment and dedicated therapy staff.
• Community Integration: Strong relationships with local schools, churches, and organizations that provide regular interaction opportunities for residents.
• Continuity of Care: The ability to move between different care levels on the same campus as needs change.
• Dedicated Memory Care Programming: Specialized activities and environmental design based on current best practices in dementia care.

Community Reputation and Recognition

Missouri Slope has established a strong reputation within the Bismarck community over its years of operation:

Awards and Recognitions

• 5-Star Rating from Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
• Recognition for quality improvement initiatives from the North Dakota Department of Health
• Excellence in Care award from the North Dakota Long Term Care Association
• Recognized for staff development programs and retention strategies

Community Involvement

• Hosts community health events and educational seminars
• Partners with local universities for healthcare student training
• Participates in senior advocacy initiatives
• Contributes to local charitable causes

Resident and Family Testimonials

Current residents and family members have shared their experiences with Missouri Slope:

“The rehabilitation team at Missouri Slope helped my father regain his strength after his stroke. Their patience and expertise made all the difference in his recovery.” – Mary K., Resident’s Daughter

“I was nervous about moving into a nursing facility, but the staff at Missouri Slope has made it feel like home. They know me as a person, not just a patient.” – Robert J., Resident

“Mom’s dementia had progressed to the point where we couldn’t safely care for her at home. The memory care unit at Missouri Slope provides the secure environment she needs while still treating her with dignity and respect.” – Thomas L., Resident’s Son

“As a retired nurse myself, I have high standards for care. Missouri Slope meets those standards consistently. The staff is responsive, knowledgeable, and truly caring.” – Elizabeth M., Resident

Visitation and Family Involvement

Missouri Slope encourages family involvement in resident care:

• Open visitation hours (with health safety protocols as needed)
• Regular care plan meetings with family participation
• Family council that provides input on facility operations
• Educational resources for families on aging and care issues
• Family notification system for important updates
• Special events that welcome family participation
• Private spaces for family gatherings and celebrations

Admission Process

The admission process at Missouri Slope typically includes:

1. Initial inquiry and facility tour
2. Pre-admission assessment of care needs
3. Financial review and payment planning
4. Completion of admission paperwork
5. Care plan development
6. Move-in coordination
7. Orientation to the facility and services

The admissions team works with families to ensure a smooth transition and can help coordinate with hospitals or other care providers for transfers.

Conclusion

Missouri Slope provides senior living with a focus on quality care, engaging activities, and resident dignity. As a non-profit, faith-based organization, its approach to senior care prioritizes compassion and service.

The facility's pricing is competitive for the Bismarck area, especially considering the range of services and the quality of care. It has a good reputation in the healthcare community, showing it consistently provides high-quality senior care.

Families considering Missouri Slope should schedule a personal tour to experience the community firsthand and discuss specific care needs with the management team.