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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Des Moines, IA for 2024

As the state capital and economic center of Iowa, Des Moines is an attractive spot for active seniors who want access to many recreational opportunities while enjoying good air quality and friendly tax policies. That’s why more than 25,000 adults aged 65 and over now call “Hartford of the West” home.

Assisted living facilities in Des Moines provide a home and community for seniors who need varying degrees of support carrying out daily activities of living, including housekeeping, grooming, meal preparation and taking medication. These facilities are a more affordable option than nursing homes for seniors who can’t remain independent in their own properties but don’t require constant medical supervision. The average monthly cost for assisted living in Des Moines is $5,005 per month.

This guide is for seniors and families who want to learn more about assisted living in Des Moines. In addition to cost information for the city and surrounding areas, the guide offers more information about the city and links to local free resources, including organizations that can help find benefits that make paying for assisted living easier.

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Assisted Living Facilities in Des Moines, Iowa

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What to Consider About Assisted Living in Des Moines

Assisted living facilities in Des Moines, as well as the rest of Iowa, are licensed and regulated by the state’s Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA). Rules for assisted living facilities, officially recognized as Assisted living programs (ALPs), are located in Iowa Code Chapter 231C.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Des Moines

  • According to the American Lung Association, the Des Moines area has good air quality. Polk County received a passing grade for particle pollution and a B for ozone pollution. In these conditions, seniors can feel comfortable breathing the air while enjoying the city’s numerous parks and outdoor features.
  • From golfing and hiking to fishing and swimming, outdoor activity is a regular part of life for many seniors in Des Moines. Saylorville Lake and Big Creek Lake are popular aquatic destinations, while Blank Park Zoo and the Des Moines Botanical Gardens are ideal spots for enjoying nature. The city also offers plenty of entertaining indoor attractions, including the extensive collection at the Des Moines Art Center.
  • Social security benefits are exempt from state income tax in Iowa, which gives the nine out of 10 seniors in Des Moines who receive money from social security greater ability to pay for assisted living. While Iowa has a marginal tax rate for withdrawals from retirement accounts, the $6,000 deduction provides some relief. 
  • Rates of property and violent crime are high when compared to state and national averages. Many assisted living facilities improve peace of mind for residents and families by implementing a variety of security features, including video surveillance, 24-hour monitoring and controlled access points.
  • Des Moines Area Transit (DART) operates 150 fixed bus routes and other transportation services that can move seniors throughout the city quickly and affordably. All adults aged 65 and over are eligible for the half-fare program. Seniors can fill out and submit the application at DART Central Station located at 620 Cherry Street, Des Moines, IA 50309.

Paying for Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA

When trying to decide how to pay for assisted living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of more than 75,000 senior living providers to provide insight into the average cost of assisted living in Des Moines and 24 other cities in Iowa.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA

As of 2023, assisted living in Des Moines costs 4.75% below the national average at $4,252. However, inflation impacts typical prices, with a projected 16.5% increase (from $3,881 to $4,579) between 2022 and 2024. Data indicates nearby Urbandale and Bondurant will see similar price hikes.

Assisted living in Ankeny is also set to increase by 16.5% from $4,675 in 2022 to $5,516 in 2024. Inflation projections for all three cities are significantly higher than the predicted 4.8% for Iowa.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Des Moines$3,881$4,252$4,579
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459$4,802
Iowa$4,770$4,879$5,006
Ankeny$4,675$5,122$5,516
Urbandale$3,881$4,252$4,579
Bondurant$3,881$4,252$4,579

The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

At an average monthly cost of $5,005, Des Moines is one of the most expensive cities in the state for assisted living. The only place that costs more is Waterloo, with a monthly average of $5,060. The least expensive nearby city, Ames, costs an average of $3,723. Sioux City, which is on the western border with Nebraska, has a similar cost of $3,750. 

Des Moines

$5,005

Iowa

$4,073

The United States

$4,300

Ames

$3,723

Waterloo

$5,060

Sioux City

$3,750

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

The cost of senior living in Des Moines depends on the required level of care. Seniors living in independent living communities should expect to pay around $2,725, while assisted living costs $4,252 on average. Memory care communities typically offer a more intensive level of care and are costlier at $8,550. Prices vary between providers depending on the community's facilities and services.

Assisted Living

$4,252

Memory Care

$8,550

Independent Living

$2,725

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Des Moines

Seniors in the Des Moines area can have the cost of their assisted living accommodation subsidized by the Medicaid program. Medicaid waivers are also available for individuals who require long-term care that they are unable to pay for themselves. 

Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Assisted Living in Iowa page.

Financial Assistance in Iowa

More Ways to Pay for Assisted Living

While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for assisted living, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance assisted living costs include:

  • Veterans Benefits
  • Life Insurance Policy
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgage

For more information about different ways to finance assisted living, visit our Assisted Living in Iowa page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Des Moines,IA

There are many resources in Des Moines,IA that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.

For information about statewide resources and those in nearby cities, go to Caring’s Iowa state page.

Area Agency on Aging

Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Aging Resources of Central Iowa800-747-5352Across Iowa, six Area Agencies on Aging provide supportive services for older adults to improve their overall quality of life. These agencies can connect seniors with local transportation services, nutritional programs, community support groups and other local aid. Additionally, low-income seniors can benefit from a variety of cost-saving programs, including home weatherization, heating and cooling bill support and help paying for medical care. AAAs also advocate for senior wellness by intervening in suspected cases of Medicare fraud or abuse.

Food Assistance Programs

Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Des Moines seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Caring Hands Eastview Food Pantry515-809-2356Food pantries distribute basic food items to seniors and low-income individuals, such as canned goods, rice, pasta, and other staples. These pantries are located throughout Iowa and have their own eligibility criteria.
River Place Food Pantry515-286-3434The Des Moines Area Religious Council operates two food pantries in Polk County, providing reliable access to nutritious food for seniors in the community. These pantries offer pre-packaged parcels and mobile delivery services, ensuring that seniors receive the nourishment they need right at their doorstep. Eligibility is determined based on income and household size, and participants can receive a monthly supply of food and non-food items that will last them for three days. With the support of dedicated volunteers and faith communities, DMARC effectively addresses food insecurity among older adults in Polk County.
Wesley Life Meals on Wheels515-699-3243Wesley Life Meals on Wheels provides a valuable service to seniors aged 60 and above in Des Moines, IA, who face challenges in shopping for and cooking their own meals. Our dedicated volunteers deliver freshly prepared, hot meals from Monday to Friday, between 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. These meals are carefully crafted with nutritious, low-sodium ingredients, ensuring the health and well-being of our recipients. Each day, we offer three different meal options, allowing our clients to choose according to their preferences. For added convenience, we also offer frozen meals. While there is a per-meal fee, we are committed to reducing the cost through local grants and funding.

Free Used Medical Equipment

Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Des Moines collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Assistive Technology Program - Des Moines866-866-8782DME is loaned for a nominal charge and can be used for any length of time. The organization also manages the Iowa Assistive Technology Exchange Program. The website connects seniors with providers across Iowa who have equipment available for loan or sale.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Des Moines seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Iowa Legal Aid - Des Moines800-992-8161Before moving to an assisted living community or while in residence, seniors may need legal advice and assistance with managing complex issues such as medical trusts, wills and competence hearings. Iowa Legal Aid provides free and low-cost legal advice and services to seniors. For issues that are not available through Iowa Legal Aid, seniors can obtain low-cost legal advice for as little as $25 per 30 minutes through lawyers that partner with Legal Aid to offer discounted service. This nonprofit organization also administers the Legal Hotline for Older Iowans.
Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman (OSLTCO) - Des Moines641-420-9850The Long-Term Care Ombudsman is an advocate for the rights of seniors in residential care communities. Financed by the state, the ombudsman doesn't charge for its services, which include investigating complaints about facilities by their residents, or their families, and third parties. The ombudsman pursues solutions with care providers on behalf of residents and doesn't charge for any of its services. Additional services include providing copies of inspection reports to families comparing memory care communities for their loved ones.

Home Repair and Modifications

Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Des Moines have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Single Family Housing Direct Home Loans in Iowa - Des Moines515-284-4663The program provides grants of up to $10,000 which older adults can use to remove health and safety hazards from their property. Seniors can visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture website to check if their home is eligible for the program.

Senior Centers

Senior centers in Des Moines bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Polk County Senior Services Community Centers/Meal Sites515-286-3434Polk County operates 17 multipurpose senior centers that serve as socialization hubs for older residents. These facilities offer health screenings and information about community initiatives set up for the elderly population.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in Des Moines help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Iowa 211211An initiative of the United Way, 211 Iowa is an information and referral service that can help connect seniors and caregivers with resources in their communities. Individuals can call the organization to speak with trained experts who can provide information and help direct them to services that suit their individual needs and circumstances. The service is free, confidential and available 24/7.
UNITED 55+ Program515-246-6500United 55+ is an AmeriCorps Senior Program in Central Iowa that aims to promote community engagement among seniors. Through this initiative, seniors are encouraged to volunteer at local nonprofits, selecting programs that align with their abilities and availability. These opportunities range from assisting at nonprofit gift shops to creating literacy kits, writing uplifting notes, and aiding low-income families with tax preparation. Additionally, participants are eligible for mileage reimbursement.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Des Moines help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Des Moines Social Security Office 50309800-772-1213Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working.

Tax Assistance

Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Des Moines resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Iowa Homestead Tax Credit and Exemption - Des Moines800-367-3388Homeowners aged 65 and older who meet certain financial criteria can make a claim for tax relief under the state's Homestead tax laws. Iowa seniors who live in rental properties could be entitled to rent reimbursement.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Des Moines retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - Des Moines515-518-4770The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income seniors pay their home energy bills. This federally-funded program provides a one-off payment toward a resident's residential heating utility.

Veteran's Services

Des Moines retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Des Moines VA Medical Center800-698-2411The Des Moines VA Medical Center is a veterans' primary health facility delivering nonurgent care, surgical interventions and mental health services. The center offers specialists in cancer care, diabetes management, dentistry, audiology and spinal cord injury and disorder treatment. It can also connect vets and their families with transitional housing assistance and provides behavioral health assessments and counseling. Patients of the center must be VA health care registered.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Des Moines

Des Moines-area assisted living communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all assisted living communities in Iowa are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Iowa page for more information about these laws.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Iowa

Frequently Asked Questions About Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA

Reviews of Communities Nearby

Assisted Living

Joe

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of Ramsey Village

My mother has moved into Ramsey Village. The employees there are very helpful and extremely friendly. They know all their residents and they treat them all with respect. They appear to have, and...

Read more

Assisted Living

Tonya

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of Edencrest at Riverwoods

My parents have moved into Edencrest at Riverwoods. Everything is great. They are very helpful. There is good communication. They are making sure they are checking in with me and making sure my...

Read more

Assisted Living

Jeff

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of Ramsey Village

Ramsey Village is a very good place. Mom has a small room, but that's not what caught my eye. It was what was going on outside the room. The caring staff and the people sit together and talk in the...

Read more

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Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

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