Placed less than 6 miles away from Cedar Rapids, Marion is one of the fastest growing cities in the state. The city is ideal for retirees looking for a safe community that’s dedicated to improving the lives of older residents. Over 40,000 people call Marion home, out of whom 16.6% are seniors aged 65 and older. The city’s attractions cater to an array of interests. Nature enthusiasts may enjoy the walking trails of Indian Creek Nature Center, while history buffs can explore The Granger House Victorian Museum.
Assisted living facilities provide residential care for seniors who need some help with daily living tasks but want to maintain as much independence as possible. Seniors in these communities received tailored care plans based on their long-term goals and needs. Facilities often include services and amenities such as meals, housekeeping and transportation to medical appointments. Seniors in Marion can expect to pay, on average, $4,450 per month for assisted living, which is more than the state median.
This guide offers an induction on issues to consider about Marion and compares the city’s average prices for assisted living with other areas in Iowa. We’ve also put together a list of helpful resources and services.
Directory of Assisted Living Facilities in Marion, IA
Bickford of Marion is located in Marion, Iowa, near major highways, restaurants and the East End Shopping Center. Residents and their loved ones give high marks to this community for its spacious apar
… (read more)
Bickford of Marion is located in Marion, Iowa, near major highways, restaurants and the East End Shopping Center. Residents and their loved ones give high marks to this community for its spacious apartments and friendly, informative staff. They appreciate the fact that every room at this facility is on one level. Plenty of activities are offered to keep residents active and socially engaged, such as card games and bingo. Bickford of Marion also provides a fully-stocked library. Residents and visitors appreciate the security of the facility, and also note its high-end amenities, which include room service and a relaxing spa.
(read less)
Bickford of Marion is located in Marion, Iowa, near major highways, restaurants and the East End Shopping Center. Residents and their loved ones give high marks to this community for its spacious apar
… (read more)
Bickford of Marion is located in Marion, Iowa, near major highways, restaurants and the East End Shopping Center. Residents and their loved ones give high marks to this community for its spacious apartments and friendly, informative staff. They appreciate the fact that every room at this facility is on one level. Plenty of activities are offered to keep residents active and socially engaged, such as card games and bingo. Bickford of Marion also provides a fully-stocked library. Residents and visitors appreciate the security of the facility, and also note its high-end amenities, which include room service and a relaxing spa.
(read less)
The Villages at Marion is situated against a backdrop of trees and greenery at the edge of Thomas Park in Marion, Iowa, next to the Legion Disc Golf Course. Seniors compliment this community’s well-ma
… (read more)
The Villages at Marion is situated against a backdrop of trees and greenery at the edge of Thomas Park in Marion, Iowa, next to the Legion Disc Golf Course. Seniors compliment this community’s well-manicured grounds, which feature an outdoor fireplace, easy-to-navigate paved walkways and a patio. Visitors compliment the dining hall, which is available to reserve for private functions, such as birthdays and holiday celebrations. The facility gets high marks for its large windows, aesthetically pleasing architecture and clean, tasteful furnishings. Residents enjoy their studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom accommodations, which they’re able to decorate to their own tastes.
(read less)
The Villages at Marion is situated against a backdrop of trees and greenery at the edge of Thomas Park in Marion, Iowa, next to the Legion Disc Golf Course. Seniors compliment this community’s well-ma
… (read more)
The Villages at Marion is situated against a backdrop of trees and greenery at the edge of Thomas Park in Marion, Iowa, next to the Legion Disc Golf Course. Seniors compliment this community’s well-manicured grounds, which feature an outdoor fireplace, easy-to-navigate paved walkways and a patio. Visitors compliment the dining hall, which is available to reserve for private functions, such as birthdays and holiday celebrations. The facility gets high marks for its large windows, aesthetically pleasing architecture and clean, tasteful furnishings. Residents enjoy their studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom accommodations, which they’re able to decorate to their own tastes.
(read less)
Summit Pointe is located in the northeastern Cedar Rapids suburb of Marion, Iowa, just north of Butterfield Park. Residents and visitors describe the grounds as beautiful, especially in the summer whe
… (read more)
Summit Pointe is located in the northeastern Cedar Rapids suburb of Marion, Iowa, just north of Butterfield Park. Residents and visitors describe the grounds as beautiful, especially in the summer when the gardens have bloomed. Residents appreciate the ease of transitioning from independent to assisted living without changing rooms. The dining area’s food is said to be restaurant quality, and residents comment that visitors often want to join them for meals. Amenities include a fitness center, pool table and beauty shop, and there are many engaging activities, such as movie nights, social clubs and lectures from guest speakers.
(read less)
Summit Pointe is located in the northeastern Cedar Rapids suburb of Marion, Iowa, just north of Butterfield Park. Residents and visitors describe the grounds as beautiful, especially in the summer whe
… (read more)
Summit Pointe is located in the northeastern Cedar Rapids suburb of Marion, Iowa, just north of Butterfield Park. Residents and visitors describe the grounds as beautiful, especially in the summer when the gardens have bloomed. Residents appreciate the ease of transitioning from independent to assisted living without changing rooms. The dining area’s food is said to be restaurant quality, and residents comment that visitors often want to join them for meals. Amenities include a fitness center, pool table and beauty shop, and there are many engaging activities, such as movie nights, social clubs and lectures from guest speakers.
(read less)
My sisters and my Dad have been taking turns with Mom in her room for B/L/D as she needs a bit of support. Currently, she can eat some things on her own, but still needs assistance. She suffers from
… (read more)
My sisters and my Dad have been taking turns with Mom in her room for B/L/D as she needs a bit of support. Currently, she can eat some things on her own, but still needs assistance. She suffers from Dementia and Parkinson’s. Due to swallowing issues, she has trouble with bread products and harder stuff such as raisins. My sister had been creating a menu with things crossed off and items circled for about 3 months. We like to work with her in the privacy of her own room. They have been bringing Mom a tray that has items on it that my sister had crossed off. This has happened at each meal service. In my humble opinion, the Home seems more about the Buck ($$) and not about the actual care of my Mom.
(read less)
My sisters and my Dad have been taking turns with Mom in her room for B/L/D as she needs a bit of support. Currently, she can eat some things on her own, but still needs assistance. She suffers from
… (read more)
My sisters and my Dad have been taking turns with Mom in her room for B/L/D as she needs a bit of support. Currently, she can eat some things on her own, but still needs assistance. She suffers from Dementia and Parkinson’s. Due to swallowing issues, she has trouble with bread products and harder stuff such as raisins. My sister had been creating a menu with things crossed off and items circled for about 3 months. We like to work with her in the privacy of her own room. They have been bringing Mom a tray that has items on it that my sister had crossed off. This has happened at each meal service. In my humble opinion, the Home seems more about the Buck ($$) and not about the actual care of my Mom.
(read less)
2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2023
Keystone Cedars is located on a peaceful street in Cedar Rapids where visitors are sure to find themselves at home. The facility offers a variety of exciting activities such as arts and crafts, games
… (read more)
Keystone Cedars is located on a peaceful street in Cedar Rapids where visitors are sure to find themselves at home. The facility offers a variety of exciting activities such as arts and crafts, games and even glamour shoots. On-site is a library, a pool with a jacuzzi, a cafeteria with an array of options and larger-than-average apartments residents are proud to show off to their loved ones. The facility has a relationship-based program where staff strives to get to know residents on a personal level, encourage them to pursue their interests and provide individualized care.
(read less)
Keystone Cedars is located on a peaceful street in Cedar Rapids where visitors are sure to find themselves at home. The facility offers a variety of exciting activities such as arts and crafts, games
… (read more)
Keystone Cedars is located on a peaceful street in Cedar Rapids where visitors are sure to find themselves at home. The facility offers a variety of exciting activities such as arts and crafts, games and even glamour shoots. On-site is a library, a pool with a jacuzzi, a cafeteria with an array of options and larger-than-average apartments residents are proud to show off to their loved ones. The facility has a relationship-based program where staff strives to get to know residents on a personal level, encourage them to pursue their interests and provide individualized care.
(read less)
Cottage Grove Place is located in the southeastern section of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It sits near three bus stations, providing residents with easy access to Cedar Rapids and Marion, as well as the Bever
… (read more)
Cottage Grove Place is located in the southeastern section of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It sits near three bus stations, providing residents with easy access to Cedar Rapids and Marion, as well as the Bever Park walking trail. Residents enjoy the multitude of activities available to them both on and off the property, including gardening, card games and classes. Residents appreciate a list of amenities that includes computer areas, a fitness center and a billiards room, as well as flexible dining plans. Residents also praise the facility for offering a safe and friendly community that makes them feel at home.
(read less)
Cottage Grove Place is located in the southeastern section of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It sits near three bus stations, providing residents with easy access to Cedar Rapids and Marion, as well as the Bever
… (read more)
Cottage Grove Place is located in the southeastern section of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It sits near three bus stations, providing residents with easy access to Cedar Rapids and Marion, as well as the Bever Park walking trail. Residents enjoy the multitude of activities available to them both on and off the property, including gardening, card games and classes. Residents appreciate a list of amenities that includes computer areas, a fitness center and a billiards room, as well as flexible dining plans. Residents also praise the facility for offering a safe and friendly community that makes them feel at home.
(read less)
Located on the outskirts of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Garnett Place Retirement Community provides assisted living care in a loving and compassionate way. Family members appreciate that their loved ones are
… (read more)
Located on the outskirts of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Garnett Place Retirement Community provides assisted living care in a loving and compassionate way. Family members appreciate that their loved ones are able to easily get from floor to floor within the facility thanks to the elevators. The residents enjoy a variety of food options and transportation is available to take them on field trips to town. Many residents enjoy taking part in the trivia parties, playing card games or going into the garden when they want to relax.
(read less)
Located on the outskirts of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Garnett Place Retirement Community provides assisted living care in a loving and compassionate way. Family members appreciate that their loved ones are
… (read more)
Located on the outskirts of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Garnett Place Retirement Community provides assisted living care in a loving and compassionate way. Family members appreciate that their loved ones are able to easily get from floor to floor within the facility thanks to the elevators. The residents enjoy a variety of food options and transportation is available to take them on field trips to town. Many residents enjoy taking part in the trivia parties, playing card games or going into the garden when they want to relax.
(read less)
It is a very nice place. I’ve been very happy with the staff there, really. They are just very friendly people. I have not tried the food because of COVID, but my mom is kind of picky and she only eat
… (read more)
It is a very nice place. I’ve been very happy with the staff there, really. They are just very friendly people. I have not tried the food because of COVID, but my mom is kind of picky and she only eats one meal downstairs when she could have eaten three meals, because she doesn’t wake up early enough to go down for breakfast at 8 o’clock in the morning. So, at times she’ll have it delivered to her room instead.
The menu could be toned down a little for more blander type foods. They seem to have a lot of spicy stuff and we’re talking about older people here. I don’t have anything against the chef, but what’s the matter with homemade ones? Many times she will ask them to make her a cheese omelet instead and then the chef does it for her. He has no problem doing that and he’s a very nice guy.
However, I’d like to see my mom’s room cleaned more and vacuumed more often, and clean bathroom floors. I cleaned her stool when I was there because it was filthy and I wiped it up on her bathroom floor. So, obviously, the housekeeping staff isn’t keeping up or I don’t know what’s going on there.
Mom doesn’t like bingo, and they play that a lot. They also have a pastor that comes in once a week, which she enjoys, and an exercise program right after that but nothing major, just probably sitting in a chair and moving things around.
I think we’re paying a chunk of change. We are paying over $4000 a month and I think it’s a little expensive, but it’s a nice place. They made a deal with me that once her money runs out, they will accept Medicare and elderly waiver where you normally have to pay for two years.
(read less)
It is a very nice place. I’ve been very happy with the staff there, really. They are just very friendly people. I have not tried the food because of COVID, but my mom is kind of picky and she only eat
… (read more)
It is a very nice place. I’ve been very happy with the staff there, really. They are just very friendly people. I have not tried the food because of COVID, but my mom is kind of picky and she only eats one meal downstairs when she could have eaten three meals, because she doesn’t wake up early enough to go down for breakfast at 8 o’clock in the morning. So, at times she’ll have it delivered to her room instead.
The menu could be toned down a little for more blander type foods. They seem to have a lot of spicy stuff and we’re talking about older people here. I don’t have anything against the chef, but what’s the matter with homemade ones? Many times she will ask them to make her a cheese omelet instead and then the chef does it for her. He has no problem doing that and he’s a very nice guy.
However, I’d like to see my mom’s room cleaned more and vacuumed more often, and clean bathroom floors. I cleaned her stool when I was there because it was filthy and I wiped it up on her bathroom floor. So, obviously, the housekeeping staff isn’t keeping up or I don’t know what’s going on there.
Mom doesn’t like bingo, and they play that a lot. They also have a pastor that comes in once a week, which she enjoys, and an exercise program right after that but nothing major, just probably sitting in a chair and moving things around.
I think we’re paying a chunk of change. We are paying over $4000 a month and I think it’s a little expensive, but it’s a nice place. They made a deal with me that once her money runs out, they will accept Medicare and elderly waiver where you normally have to pay for two years.
(read less)
Corridor Crossings Place is located in a residential neighborhood of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just blocks from Interstate 380 and minutes from area restaurants. Visitors appreciate the facility’s cleanline
… (read more)
Corridor Crossings Place is located in a residential neighborhood of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just blocks from Interstate 380 and minutes from area restaurants. Visitors appreciate the facility’s cleanliness, friendly staff and casual atmosphere. According to guests, the layout is ideal, with everything on one floor, including several common rooms and an activity space. Residents can also access outdoor sitting areas and a shed for smokers. Visitors say that residents play bingo several times a week and can attend outings to Dairy Queen and local dining spots or just go for a ride. A minibus is also available for medical appointments.
(read less)
Corridor Crossings Place is located in a residential neighborhood of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just blocks from Interstate 380 and minutes from area restaurants. Visitors appreciate the facility’s cleanline
… (read more)
Corridor Crossings Place is located in a residential neighborhood of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just blocks from Interstate 380 and minutes from area restaurants. Visitors appreciate the facility’s cleanliness, friendly staff and casual atmosphere. According to guests, the layout is ideal, with everything on one floor, including several common rooms and an activity space. Residents can also access outdoor sitting areas and a shed for smokers. Visitors say that residents play bingo several times a week and can attend outings to Dairy Queen and local dining spots or just go for a ride. A minibus is also available for medical appointments.
(read less)
Prairie Hills at Cedar Rapids is an assisted living and memory care facility located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community is a short drive away from Mercy Medical Center and Lindale shopping mall. The
… (read more)
Prairie Hills at Cedar Rapids is an assisted living and memory care facility located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community is a short drive away from Mercy Medical Center and Lindale shopping mall. The community has a wide array of amenities and services available including complimentary transport services, life enrichment programs, health supervision and restaurant-style meals served in their custom set dining facility. The ambient surroundings afford the residents some peace of mind as they focus on making the best out of each day. Residents also find the facility’s staff caring and attentive to their needs.
(read less)
Prairie Hills at Cedar Rapids is an assisted living and memory care facility located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community is a short drive away from Mercy Medical Center and Lindale shopping mall. The
… (read more)
Prairie Hills at Cedar Rapids is an assisted living and memory care facility located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community is a short drive away from Mercy Medical Center and Lindale shopping mall. The community has a wide array of amenities and services available including complimentary transport services, life enrichment programs, health supervision and restaurant-style meals served in their custom set dining facility. The ambient surroundings afford the residents some peace of mind as they focus on making the best out of each day. Residents also find the facility’s staff caring and attentive to their needs.
(read less)
Located close to the restaurants, stores and amenities of Robins, Iowa, Emery Place & Memory Care is also within easy reach of I-380. Relatives praise the grounds, the convenient location and the
… (read more)
Located close to the restaurants, stores and amenities of Robins, Iowa, Emery Place & Memory Care is also within easy reach of I-380. Relatives praise the grounds, the convenient location and the staff. Visitors note that the facility is clean and inviting, with a caring atmosphere and decor carefully designed to encourage residents to share their memories and stories. Activities are plentiful, with residents able to participate in gardening, charitable projects, games and exercise classes, as well as regular outings to local shopping and restaurants.
(read less)
Located close to the restaurants, stores and amenities of Robins, Iowa, Emery Place & Memory Care is also within easy reach of I-380. Relatives praise the grounds, the convenient location and the
… (read more)
Located close to the restaurants, stores and amenities of Robins, Iowa, Emery Place & Memory Care is also within easy reach of I-380. Relatives praise the grounds, the convenient location and the staff. Visitors note that the facility is clean and inviting, with a caring atmosphere and decor carefully designed to encourage residents to share their memories and stories. Activities are plentiful, with residents able to participate in gardening, charitable projects, games and exercise classes, as well as regular outings to local shopping and restaurants.
(read less)
Mom is at The Views of Cedar Rapids-RidgeView Assisted Living. Everything’s well kept, clean, and put away. When you first walk in, you’ll see the dining room which is always very clean. All the chair
… (read more)
Mom is at The Views of Cedar Rapids-RidgeView Assisted Living. Everything’s well kept, clean, and put away. When you first walk in, you’ll see the dining room which is always very clean. All the chairs are always pushed in. All the tables are set. No matter what time of day it is. It’s very good, very well-made, and very well-plated. The servers are patient and take their time with each resident. They all do a really good job. They have Bible study, bingo, field trips to the casino or the grocery store, a book club, and they have coffee and pastries in between the other three meals.
(read less)
Mom is at The Views of Cedar Rapids-RidgeView Assisted Living. Everything’s well kept, clean, and put away. When you first walk in, you’ll see the dining room which is always very clean. All the chair
… (read more)
Mom is at The Views of Cedar Rapids-RidgeView Assisted Living. Everything’s well kept, clean, and put away. When you first walk in, you’ll see the dining room which is always very clean. All the chairs are always pushed in. All the tables are set. No matter what time of day it is. It’s very good, very well-made, and very well-plated. The servers are patient and take their time with each resident. They all do a really good job. They have Bible study, bingo, field trips to the casino or the grocery store, a book club, and they have coffee and pastries in between the other three meals.
(read less)
Evergreen Estates III is tucked away on a cozy street in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just moments from Apache Park, Weland Clinical Laboratories, Christ Church Presbyterian and First Church of the Open Bible.
… (read more)
Evergreen Estates III is tucked away on a cozy street in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just moments from Apache Park, Weland Clinical Laboratories, Christ Church Presbyterian and First Church of the Open Bible. Visitors praise the facility for its well-maintained environment and friendly staff who are readily available day or night. Residents enjoy a variety of activities such as bingo, music and relaxing at the beauty/barber shop. Visitors have praised the delicious food options, homey furnishings and well-sized rooms. Residents also enjoy outings with friends and family and regularly scheduled group trips to local shops and restaurants.
(read less)
Evergreen Estates III is tucked away on a cozy street in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just moments from Apache Park, Weland Clinical Laboratories, Christ Church Presbyterian and First Church of the Open Bible.
… (read more)
Evergreen Estates III is tucked away on a cozy street in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, just moments from Apache Park, Weland Clinical Laboratories, Christ Church Presbyterian and First Church of the Open Bible. Visitors praise the facility for its well-maintained environment and friendly staff who are readily available day or night. Residents enjoy a variety of activities such as bingo, music and relaxing at the beauty/barber shop. Visitors have praised the delicious food options, homey furnishings and well-sized rooms. Residents also enjoy outings with friends and family and regularly scheduled group trips to local shops and restaurants.
(read less)
I liked many things about Meth Wick Health Center. I was born and raised in that neighborhood as a child. It also had many people from the Church that I served, and it was a full care. It was near to
… (read more)
I liked many things about Meth Wick Health Center. I was born and raised in that neighborhood as a child. It also had many people from the Church that I served, and it was a full care. It was near to all the other things that we were used to, like workout center, groceries and all. There was a wide variety of rooms.
We were there the other day, and they welcomed us to all their activities. They had musical programs. They had interesting meal arrangements. There were several communities there or different housing sections. You could cook your own or you could go with the community lunch or dinner, which means there was a good cross section of people that you meet each time you were there.
(read less)
I liked many things about Meth Wick Health Center. I was born and raised in that neighborhood as a child. It also had many people from the Church that I served, and it was a full care. It was near to
… (read more)
I liked many things about Meth Wick Health Center. I was born and raised in that neighborhood as a child. It also had many people from the Church that I served, and it was a full care. It was near to all the other things that we were used to, like workout center, groceries and all. There was a wide variety of rooms.
We were there the other day, and they welcomed us to all their activities. They had musical programs. They had interesting meal arrangements. There were several communities there or different housing sections. You could cook your own or you could go with the community lunch or dinner, which means there was a good cross section of people that you meet each time you were there.
(read less)
Higley Mansion Care Center is an assisted living facility for seniors located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community receivies high marks from residents and visitors for being well-kept and clean, and f
… (read more)
Higley Mansion Care Center is an assisted living facility for seniors located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community receivies high marks from residents and visitors for being well-kept and clean, and for having a helpful and friendly staff. Residents enjoy the many fun activities that keep them socially engaged such as bingo, music, dancing and parties. Residents and their loved ones also like the security features offered at Higley Mansion, along with the tranquil garden that includes multi-tiered decks, mature trees and gorgeous flowers for everyone to enjoy.
(read less)
Higley Mansion Care Center is an assisted living facility for seniors located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community receivies high marks from residents and visitors for being well-kept and clean, and f
… (read more)
Higley Mansion Care Center is an assisted living facility for seniors located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The community receivies high marks from residents and visitors for being well-kept and clean, and for having a helpful and friendly staff. Residents enjoy the many fun activities that keep them socially engaged such as bingo, music, dancing and parties. Residents and their loved ones also like the security features offered at Higley Mansion, along with the tranquil garden that includes multi-tiered decks, mature trees and gorgeous flowers for everyone to enjoy.
(read less)
My grandma was at Promise House for two years before passing away, so I visited there several times. I did not notice much staff turnover, which I think is a plus. The staff was always very friendly a
… (read more)
My grandma was at Promise House for two years before passing away, so I visited there several times. I did not notice much staff turnover, which I think is a plus. The staff was always very friendly and caring to all the residents. They always had special activities and games planned in order to mentally stimulate the residents. The facility was always clean and organized. I would usually come during a meal time, and the meals seemed fitting and acceptable. They made sure my grandmas room was set up to feel as much like home as possible for her, and it also made us feel at home as well when we visited. The staff was great at advising my mom about the status of my grandma and relating any problems or issues to her. They could tell my grandma would be passing soon, so the staff notified everyone in the family that she would be going soon, so we should stop in and see her one last time. The staff was very comforting during the difficult time for us. Overall, I had an enjoyable experience with Promise House.
(read less)
My grandma was at Promise House for two years before passing away, so I visited there several times. I did not notice much staff turnover, which I think is a plus. The staff was always very friendly a
… (read more)
My grandma was at Promise House for two years before passing away, so I visited there several times. I did not notice much staff turnover, which I think is a plus. The staff was always very friendly and caring to all the residents. They always had special activities and games planned in order to mentally stimulate the residents. The facility was always clean and organized. I would usually come during a meal time, and the meals seemed fitting and acceptable. They made sure my grandmas room was set up to feel as much like home as possible for her, and it also made us feel at home as well when we visited. The staff was great at advising my mom about the status of my grandma and relating any problems or issues to her. They could tell my grandma would be passing soon, so the staff notified everyone in the family that she would be going soon, so we should stop in and see her one last time. The staff was very comforting during the difficult time for us. Overall, I had an enjoyable experience with Promise House.
(read less)
What to Consider About Assisted Living in Marion
The state of Iowa’s Department of Inspections and Appeals overlooks the running and the licensing of assisted living communities in Marion. Facilities need to adhere to a robust list of regulations in order to maintain their operating license.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Marion
- In 2019 the city of Marion joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. This means that the city’s government has made a commitment to take steps towards improving the quality of life for its older residents.
- Marion is part of the LIFTS service, a county-wide initiative offering eligible older adults door-to-door transportation services to medical appointments, shopping trips and other errands. This program makes it easier for seniors who are unable to drive or use public transportation to move around the city.
- The city receives an average of 27 inches of snow and 37 inches of rain each year. Winters in Marion are long and frigid. However, summers are particularly pleasant with July highs reaching 84 degrees. The area’s comfort index for the warmer months is 8.5 out of 10.
- Seniors in Marion benefit from living in a very safe city with below-average crime rates for both property and violent incidents. On top of that, assisted living communities are secure units where residents can feel at ease.
- In terms of healthcare, Marion has a below-average number of medical professionals per 100,000 residents. The national median is 210 while the average in the city is 175. Healthcare costs are also slightly higher than in the rest of the country. However, Marion is within close range of several quality hospitals including St. Luke’s Hospital and the Mercy Medical Center Cedar Rapids.
- The city’s cost of living is below the national average, meaning that seniors can make their retirement funds stretch a bit further than the average American.
- Older adults in the city enjoy breathing remarkably clean air. Marion’s air quality index rate of 70 is well above the national median of 58. The city also scored above average for its water quality.
Paying for Assisted Living in Marion
According to data from Genworth’s Cost of Care 2020 Survey, the cost for assisted living in Marion of $4,450 is above both the state and the U.S. respective medians of $4,073 and $4,300.
The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities
When compared with some of its surrounding cities, the rates for assisted living in Marion are mid-range. While the average cost in Davenport is nearly $1,000 lower, Iowa City is only a few hundred dollars below the cost in Marion. The cost in northeastern Dubuque of $4,568 is slightly above that of Marion, while in the northwestern area of Waterloo the median monthly price for assisted living soars to $5,060.
The Cost of Other Types of Senior Care
Moving into an assisted living community in Marion is more cost-effective than opting for in-home care, which costs $5,148 on average, each month for both homemaker and home health aide services. Nursing homes provide the highest level of senior care available and in Marion, the median price is $6,540 for a semiprivate room and $7,467 for a private room. Adult day health care rates are the lowest available in Marion at a monthly cost of $1,353.
Nursing Home Facility (semiprivate room)
Nursing Home Facility (private room)
Note: Care cost data for Marion was not available, so data for the closest city, Cedar Rapids, was used instead.
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Marion
Seniors in the Marion 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.
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 Assisted Living Resources in Marion
There are many nonprofits and agencies offering a wide range of services to seniors in Marion. We’ve put together some of the most relevant ones for older residents of assisted living communities and seniors who are considering moving into one.
Heritage is the local Area Agency on Aging serving seniors in seven counties, including Linn. The nonprofit can help seniors through options counseling for long-term care, case management services and referral to other relevant agencies.
The city’s Parks & Recreation Department organizes many free events and activities for older adults aged 55 and over at The Lowe Park Arts and Environment Center. Seniors who wish to take part in any of the events need to book their spot a day in advance. Activities include line dancing, bingo and card games.
Iowa Legal Aid manages this senior-oriented hotline. Adults aged 60 and older can get in touch with the service for legal advice and, in some cases, full representation on civil matters. Additionally, the service also provides self-help literature and an in-person legal clinic.
The statewide Ombudsman program runs as an independent advocacy service as part of the Iowa Department of Aging. Residents of long-term care units can contact the program for advice and to report concerns they have about their assisted living facility. The ombudsman can also council seniors and help them know their rights as residents.
The Retired Senior and Volunteer Program is part of a national initiative by AmeriCorps. Seniors aged 55 and older who wish to participate get matched with local volunteering opportunities based on their abilities and interests. Iowa has an estimated 5,000 retirees dedicating their time to the program each year.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Marion
Marion-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.