Iowa memory care facilities and Alzheimer's care options

Find Memory Care Communities in Iowa

Memory care units in Iowa, which can also go by the terms Alzheimer’s care, dementia care, or special care units, are facilities that are specifically designed to meet the needs of individuals with forms of dementia. They include specially trained staff that constantly monitors residents, in addition to other care methods, to prevent wandering and ensure safety.

Dementia Care Homes in Iowa - Cost Comparison

Location	Monthly Minimum	Monthly Maximum
Des Moines	$1,525	$5,790
Davenport	$3,800	$5,430
Indianola	$1,800	$5,200

*Average monthly cost for single occupancy rooms in a memory care community

Recreation and Attractions in Iowa

Throughout the state, there is an abundant number of attractions including parks, museums, trails, and gardens among an abundance of other entertainment opportunities. Some of the most popular options are the Fenelon Place Elevator Co., Reiman Gardens, Snake Alley, and the High Trestle Trail.

Iowa's Climate, Geography, and Culture

The climate in Iowa supports four seasons with the average summer high temperature being 86 degrees and the average winter low being 10 degrees. Temperature extremes occur often with much hotter than average days during the summer and much colder days during the winter. The fall and spring are often variable with one spring being cold and wet, while another is warm and dry. Typically there are 200 days throughout the year that are considered sunny, and approximately 90 where there is measurable precipitation. During the winter, snowfall is common with Iowa receiving an average of 30 inches per year.

Iowa’s culture is similar to other areas of the Midwest where being friendly and courteous is essential and not being so can be considered very rude. Iowa is home to many farms, but that is not all that the state has to offer. There are many metropolitan and urban areas that account for the economy along with agriculture.

Iowa's Memory Care Home Regulations and Laws

In Iowa, memory care facilities are required to have a program designed that meets the needs to dementia residents including planned and spontaneous activities. All exit doors must also be equipped with an alarm system, in addition to written procedures for if a resident wanders. For employees that have contact with patients with dementia at Alzheimer’s care facilities, they must undergo eight hours of training within the first 30 days of employment or contract. Additionally, between two and eight hours of continuing education is required annually depending on their level of involvement.

Crime and Safety in Iowa

Iowa is ranked 12^th in overall safety according to 2016’s Safest States to Live In.

Location	Violent Crimes Per 1,000 Residents	Property Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Norwalk	.1	9.13
Independence	.33	6.52
Waukee	.79	8.3

Payment Options for Alzheimer's Care in Iowa

Medicare, private long-term insurance, and out of pocket payment are the typical methods to pay for dementia care in Iowa. Medicaid provides services through a home and community-based waiver. In addition, the maximum reimbursement allowed per month by the Department of Human Services is $1300, but the State Supplementary Assistance In-Home Health program can provide funding for services when the waiver allotment is met.

Senior and Elderly Rights for Memory Care in Iowa

Patients have the right in Iowa to be informed of their health status in a manner they understand. They should also be involved in their plan for care and treatment. The patient’s privacy should be respected to the highest extent possible and visitors can be limited to only those that they authorize. Refusal of treatment is permitted and you must be informed about the consequences of the decision. The patient of an Alzheimer’s care community has the right to designate someone to make health care decisions for them if they do not have the capacity to do so themselves.

Iowa Memory Care: Medical Record Rules and Regulations

In Iowa, access to medical records can be requested and should be made available within 30 days. A power of attorney should also be able to have access to medical records, especially if the patient is a resident of a memory care community and does not have the cognitive ability to understand the information provided.