The Best Memory Care Facilities in Ames, IA | MemoryCare.com
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The Best Memory Care Facilities in Ames, IA

Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer’s, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Ames' senior population continues to grow (16% growth between 2015 and 2020), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.

In Ames, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 100% between 2015 and 2020. Additionally, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group increased by 7.8%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (5.4% in Ames vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).

To help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of cognitive impairment find the support and care their loved ones need, we applied our unique methodology and spent dozens of hours researching senior living communities in Ames. In addition to an overview of the communities’ best features, this guide highlights the best memory care facilities in the city, and gives information about pricing, types of care provided, residents’ reviews, and more.

Table of Contents

The Best Memory Care Facilities in Ames, IA

Table of Contents

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How Memory Care Facilities Can Help

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 83% of all caregivers are unpaid family members, relatives, or other friends, and nearly half of all care is for older adults with some form of dementia. Caregiving, especially when it involves Alzheimer’s or dementia, is extremely exhausting and time consuming, leading many caregivers to feel isolated and overwhelmed.

As a loved one continues to progress through the stages of dementia and his or her cognitive abilities continue to decline, behavioral problems, safety, and general care often become more than one caregiver can handle. This is when it’s important to find extra help, and residential facilities that have specialized memory care programs are often the best solution.

In addition to providing a safe environment, memory care programs seek to delay or halt cognitive decline while providing the opportunity for a social, independent lifestyle.

Overview of what memory care facilities provide

Our Selection Process

To choose the best memory care facilities in Ames, our team of researchers started by using our unique methodology to develop a list of contenders. We further refined the list in the next phase of our process by completing hands-on research for each one of the companies that we developed. Finally, we compiled online reviews from residents and families and wrote summaries of each facility that made it through our selection process.

Overall, our team:

  • Spent over 27 hours researching memory care facilities in Ames
  • Read more than 95 reviews written by residents and their loved ones
  • Interviewed 7 representatives from local communities
Overview of our methodology

Reviews of the 12 Best Memory Care Facilities in Ames, IA

Independence Village Ames

  • Resident Capacity:N/A
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$5,000 for Memory Care, $4,000 for Assisted Living

Independence Village Ames offers memory care seniors a place to feel connected, valued and heard. Its Aging and Dementia Services Team is specifically trained in research-backed care techniques to ensure that all residents receive personalized care that meets their unique needs. The intentionally designed layout of the residence offers interactive "Destination Stations" that provide tactile stimulation and thoughtfully designed common areas that are easy to access and navigate. The memory care neighborhood is fully secured so that residents can explore these features independently. Meals can be challenging for memory care seniors; Independence Village seeks to bring joy back into eating through its Red Plate and Revivify Programs, which utilize color research and essential oils to increase appetite and reduce food anxiety. Other features of the community include a library, an on-site beauty salon, a full activities calendar, housekeeping assistance and laundry services. Independence Village Ames is a pet-friendly community.

What Residents Are Saying

Families praise the lively atmosphere are Independence Village. One reviewer says, "I have been blown away with the fun environment and incredibly engaged staff. I've watched some of the activities with residents and it feels like there is never a dull moment. I loved seeing all of the smiles and hearing all of the laughs!"

Ramsey Village Continuing Care

  • Resident Capacity:139
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Private Rooms, Shared Rooms
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care, Respite, Skilled Nursing
  • Base Pricing:$6,510 for Memory Care, $2,624 for Independent Living, $3,360 for Assisted Living

Ramsey Village Continuing Care is located in Iowa's bustling capital city of Des Moines, allowing seniors to easily access many of the state's best hospitals and medical clinics. Residents can start in lower levels of care such as independent and assisted living and transition into the memory care program as their needs and symptoms change. Memory care in the Village is highly individualized and enhanced through two programs. The Courtyard program provides therapeutic activities customized to seniors' interests and physical and mental capabilities, while the Bridges program provides skilled nursing and additional medical support for individuals with late-stage dementia. Seniors can take advantage of various floor plans, comfortable common areas and on-site conveniences such as a beauty salon and barbershop. There is also a 24/7 pharmacy, and a concierge is available during the day.

What Residents Are Saying

Reviewers praise the helpfulness of staff members and convenient access to additional services such as rehabilitative therapies. They also appreciate the beautiful communal spaces. One reviewer writes, "The atmosphere seemed pretty nice. They had several areas where residents could sit and a little garden area. It's older, so it was kind of nice and charming."

3801 Grand Retirement Campus

  • Resident Capacity:100
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$6,300 for Memory Care, $2,550 for Independent Living, $3,500 for Assisted Living

3801 Grand Retirement Campus offers Terrace Suites, a specialized memory care community located on the first floor of its assisted living building. Residents have the opportunity to safely spend time outdoors within the enclosed private courtyard, which boasts meticulously designed landscaping. Additionally, individuals who take pleasure in gardening can engage in their hobby by working in the raised garden beds. Serene common spaces offer socialization opportunities, including a 1950s-style eatery with a realistic night-out experience. Highly trained staff can assist with residents' physical or mental needs, and residents are encouraged to hydrate throughout the day and have regularly scheduled hydration breaks.

What Residents Are Saying

Family members of residents rave about the high level of care provided by the staff. One commented, "They have a very caring and very attentive staff. They check in on her frequently to make sure everything is OK. If she actually misses a meal, the cook calls my mom and asks if she's OK. It's good to know that people are looking after her."

  • Reviews:4.12 out of 5 stars; 47 reviews
  • Phone:(515) 729-6801
  • Address:3801 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312
  • Web:https://www.3801grand.com/

Edencrest at Beaverdale

  • Resident Capacity:160
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$6,291 for Memory Care, $4,606 for Assisted Living

Edencrest at Beaverdale provides a stimulating environment for memory care residents with assistance from 24/7 caregivers and daily therapeutic services. Staff members guide residents through familiar routines to create a sense of purpose, including relaxing activities, such as gardening, coloring and music therapy. Community members can also benefit from one-on-one socialization as they walk and chat with caregivers throughout the campus. For holistic wellness, Edencrest provides valuable on-site amenities, such as a beauty salon and made-to-order dining. Staff members plan cognitively stimulating events based on seniors' abilities, and the community's Dare to Dream program aims to support special interests, such as attending sporting events or riding in a police car. Residents are also encouraged to spend time in brightly lit common areas, which feature secure entrances to mitigate wandering.

What Residents Are Saying

Residents and visitors value the community's enriching activities. They also praise the attentive staff and compassionate caregivers. One reviewer comments, "I love the activities they offer for the residents. ... From the nurses to cooks everyone goes above and beyond."

Addington Place of Des Moines

  • Resident Capacity:N/A
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$4,943 for Memory Care, $3,365 for Assisted Living

Addington Place of Des Moines is a welcoming senior living community that offers a homelike environment. Staff members spend time getting to know each resident as an individual by finding out about their personal interests, life history, dreams and hopes for the future. This helps staff to provide care that's tailored to the needs of each resident. Programs are offered to help residents maintain or improve their cognitive and physical abilities. These programs include music therapy, outdoor gardening, cognitive games and fitness classes. Residents have access to secure courtyards with raised garden beds and shaded seating areas. There's also a beauty salon and barbershop on-site to keep seniors looking their best at all times. Movies are screened in the comfortable movie theater on a regular basis.

What Residents Are Saying

Family members note the wonderful care provided, with one person saying how happy their loved ones were in the community, "My Aunt lived here for years and was extremely happy that she was able to stay through her final days. The staff were all so loving to her through all of her life changes. I'm so thankful she found a place she felt like was her final home. "

Edencrest at Riverwoods

  • Resident Capacity:80
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$4,468 for Memory Care, $4,243 for Assisted Living

Memory care at Edencrest at Riverwoods focuses on personal care, safety and life enrichment. Residents awaken each morning to personal greetings from caring staff members and assistance with daily living activities and medication. Routine is key, for seniors experiencing memory loss function better when they have a sense of familiarity. As the day progresses, residents can participate in a variety of life enrichment activities, including crafts, cognitive games and art. Music therapy, exercise sessions and "walk and talk" social times keep seniors' minds and bodies active, and movie nights featuring classic films spark memories. The community's secure environment promotes residents' safety, and staff members use gentle reminders and guidance that nudge seniors in the right direction. Supervision is available 24/7 so that families can have peace of mind that their loved ones are receiving good care.

What Residents Are Saying

Reviewers of Edencrest at Riverwoods appreciate the community's caring staff and clean, comfortable atmosphere. One reviewer remarks that even though her mother resisted moving into the community, "she enjoys the food [and] flexible mealtimes" and "says the staff is friendly and respectful." Everything is "well-maintained and clean," and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.

Windsor Manor

  • Resident Capacity:40
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care
  • Base Pricing:$3,520 for Memory Care, $3,520 for Assisted Living

Windsor Manor - Nevada is a midsize senior care community located approximately 9 miles to the east of Ames, IA, and right next to the Story County Medical Center. The community offers assisted living for up to 30 residents and has a secure memory care unit known as Windsor Gardens for up to 10 residents. Residents with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia live in studio apartments of varying sizes and design, each with a private bathroom. As well as providing a secure environment, this community also equips each resident with a wireless emergency pendant, and caregivers are on duty 24/7 to help with the regular activities of daily living. Staff can arrange transportation, pharmacy and chapel services, and guests are welcome to visit for meals and overnight stays.

What Residents Are Saying

A visitor to Windsor Manor Nevada says the staff is very knowledgeable, and also notes the varied activities taking place. "They'll do their crafts, they do baking, they do specialty field trips for different things, and they really do a lot to keep them active and engaged."

Glen Oaks Alzheimer's Special Care Center

  • Resident Capacity:66
  • Room Types:Studios, Private Rooms, Shared Rooms
  • Care Provided: Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$6,725 for Memory Care

Glen Oaks Alzheimer's Special Care Center is a resident-centered community offering compassionate memory care. Screenings and assessments are used to create personalized care plans for every resident, which are carried out by trained caregivers and certified nurses. Glen Oaks also implements the research-based SPARK program. This program focuses on offering rehabilitative opportunities that help residents maintain skills and strengthen social connections. Knowing that staying engaged in the community is correlated with increased cognitive functioning, residents are also encouraged to participate in the many activities offered at Glen Oaks. Some of these enriching activities include crafts, happy hours, pet therapy, veteran ceremonies and religious services. Memory care seniors enjoy daily meals prepared by a professional chef, and special dietary needs are easily accommodated. Housekeeping, laundry services and transportation to doctor appointments are included in the monthly cost.

What Residents Are Saying

The staff at Glen Oaks are highly praised for their compassionate care. One reviewer says, "My dad moved into Glen Oaks Alzheimer's Special Care Center. First off, their staff there is fabulous. They've been very helpful... I just love the atmosphere at the place. It's warm and friendly. All of the employees so far have just been wonderful."

Edencrest at Green Meadows

  • Resident Capacity:74
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments, Companion Suites
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:$6,480 for Memory Care, $4,644 for Assisted Living

In addition to assisted living, Edencrest at Green Meadows provides specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer's disease, dementia and other forms of memory loss. A variety of memory care programs such as music therapy, fitness exercises and outdoor walks for mobility help residents maintain their cognitive and physical abilities. An ideal caregiver-to-resident ratio ensures that each senior receives the attentive care they require. For safety and accessibility, Edencrest has secured entrances and exits, as well as brightly-lit common areas and apartments. Picture menus make it simple for memory care residents to select and order healthy meals in the dining hall. There are one-on-one and group activities designed to help make each senior's day brighter while reducing anxiety. Residents also have access to UnityPoint Health Iowa Lutheran Hospital and numerous dental and medical specialists in the neighborhood.

What Residents Are Saying

Family members note the professionalism of the staff as well as the comfortable atmosphere of the community. A resident's son writes, "The Edencrest staff do a wonderful job with our mom. They are so friendly and helpful. We appreciate all they do for her."

Edencrest at Siena Hills

  • Resident Capacity:132
  • Room Types:Studios, 1-Bedroom Apartments, 2-Bedroom Apartments
  • Care Provided: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite
  • Base Pricing:N/A

Edencrest at Siena Hills provides memory care in a safe, comfortable environment. Caregivers focus on caring for residents' personal needs and creatively interacting with them to stimulate their minds and promote meaning and purpose. Edencrest staff members take the time to learn residents' stories and preferences. The community's programming is geared toward activities that are enjoyable and easy to accomplish. Seniors can spend an afternoon coloring, participate in music therapy or take a supervised walk in a nearby park. Exercise sessions encourage safe movements that increase flexibility and strength, while cognitive games stimulate the mind. The community provides healthy meals and snacks designed for nutrition, flavor and easy eating. Edencrest is fully secure to prevent residents from wandering and promote a sense of familiarity and safety.

What Residents Are Saying

A reviewer whose father lives at Edencrest at Siena Hills appreciates the community's quality care and comfortable environment. "The staff is very caring," the reviewer says. "They have trivia and different activities. ... His room is very clean. They have several areas that can be utilized by the family, like a library, main dining area, and a common area."

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