Located in the heart of Iowa, West Des Moines is home to around 68,723 people, and 13.6% of its residents are 65 or older. Seniors are attracted to the city’s low cost of living and low violent crime rate. The city also has several hospitals, including MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center and Methodist West Hospital. According to the Genworth 2021 Cost of Care Survey, the median monthly rate for a semiprivate room in a West Des Moines nursing home is $7,148, about $760 below the national average.
Nursing homes offer the highest level of senior care available. They are suitable for people who can’t safely live at home but who don’t need to be hospitalized. Many residents are older adults recovering from surgery. Facilities provide 24/7 nursing care and supervision. On-site caregivers help residents complete daily living tasks such as getting dressed and eating. Assisted living communities and home care agencies offer more affordable care for seniors who don’t need the constant supervision provided in nursing homes.
This guide provides an overview of nursing home rates in West Des Moines compared with other Iowa cities. It also lists some resources to help seniors in the area.