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Memory Care in Iowa
Iowa is home to more than 3.2 million people, with 17.7% of those residents being adults 65 and older, according to Census Bureau data. That segment of Iowa’s population is at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other memory-loss disorders, which are on the rise. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the disease affects about 6.5 million American seniors and is expected to jump to 12.7 million by 2050. Information from the CDC shows an increase of 16.9% in Alzheimer’s-related deaths in Iowa between 2016 and 2020. That’s lower than the overall death rate, which increased by 23.83%.
Iowa seniors can find support from many dementia care communities available in the state. With 24-hour staffing and safe, homelike memory care communities, Iowans affected by Alzheimer’s and other memory-loss disorders can receive compassionate, tailored care that can help slow cognitive decline. Residents have access to medical care, socialization opportunities and assistance with daily tasks. This guide looks at the advantages and disadvantages of living in Iowa as well as memory care costs and resources.
Find Memory Care Options Near You
The Cost of Memory Care in Iowa
When trying to decide how to pay for memory care, 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 over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of memory care in Iowa and its 14 cities.
Note: Due to increased licensing requirements and care services, memory care typically costs 20-30% more than assisted living services despite being provided in the same setting. No nationwide cost data is available, so we estimate memory care costs by increasing assisted living rates in the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey by 25%.
In Iowa, older adults pay $5,459 per month for memory care, which is affordable compared to the national rate of $5,625. In Minnesota, memory care residents pay $5,635 for care, and in Illinois, rates are comparable at $5,610. Seniors in Nebraska pay $5,095, and in South Dakota, memory care costs are estimated at $4,188. Missouri has some of the cheapest memory care rates in the nation with fees coming in at $3,750.
The Cost of Memory Care in Iowa's Top Cities
The cost of memory care in Iowa's top cities fluctuates, with some being pricer and others more affordable. The capital city Des Moines sees higher-than-average costs of $8,550 for memory care. Though still above the state norm, Cedar Rapids is slightly more affordable, averaging $6,708 monthly. In Ankeny, costs are slightly lower than the state norm, averaging $5,586. Davenport offers additional savings compared to the state average, costing around $5,400 monthly.
Iowa
$5,914
Des Moines
$8,550
Cedar Rapids
$6,708
Davenport
$5,400
Ankeny
$5,586
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Iowa
From 2022 to 2023, inflation raised memory care's average cost in Iowa from $5,376 to $5,914, roughly 10%. This aligns with the national average's rate of increase at 10.4%, rising from $4,863 to $5,369. Many surrounding states have similarly priced memory care. In Missouri, care increased 2.4% from $5,372 to $5,502. Similarly in Illinois, costs increased by 8.7%, driving prices from $5,328 to $5,790. Meanwhile in Wisconsin, the sting of inflation was felt with an 8.2% spike in prices, moving from 5,620 to $6,083. Finally, Minnesota saw a 3.3% increase in costs, going from $5,742 to $5,934 in 2023.
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $5,376 | $5,914 | $6,299 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Missouri | $5,372 | $5,502 | $5,859 |
| Illinois | $5,328 | $5,790 | $6,382 |
| Wisconsin | $5,620 | $6,083 | $6,768 |
| Minnesota | $5,742 | $5,934 | $6,749 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
Seniors can expect to see various prices for senior living based on the level of care provided. Other factors may also influence the cost, including the additional services and amenities offered. Independent living provides little-to-no supportive services and averages $2,483 in Iowa. Assisted living offers daily support for $4,879 monthly. Memory care provides more extensive support and access to dementia-friendly therapies for an average of $5,914 monthly.
Assisted Living
$4,879
Memory Care
$5,914
Independent Living
$2,483
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Iowa?
Note: For the purposes of this guide, when we say “Memory Care” we are referring to memory care provided in a “social setting,” such as an Assisted Living Facility. This is the most common way to receive Memory Care and is the best fit for all but the frailest seniors. Sometimes the actual service of memory care can be provided in a Nursing Home (“medical setting”), so the financial assistance options will be very different. To learn more about the financial assistance options available for memory care provided in a nursing home, read our guide to Nursing Home Care in Iowa.
Iowa Medicaid provides robust health insurance coverage for qualifying individuals in the state, helping them obtain necessary medical services despite financial limitations. While this program covers nursing home and home-based care directly, seniors must enroll in the Elderly Waiver to get coverage for memory care services.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Iowa
Through the Elderly Waiver, Iowa Medicaid covers a broad range of memory care services, bridging the gap between the services an individual needs and what they’re able to afford. Under this program, seniors meet with an interdisciplinary team that assesses their care needs and develops an individualized comprehension plan.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Iowa
Elderly Waiver
The Elderly Waiver is a Home and Community-Based Services Waiver that provides funding for residential care, including memory care, for seniors who would otherwise be at risk of nursing home placement. The services an individual receives are based on their unique needs and may include:
- Adult day care
- Assisted living and memory care services
- Assistive devices
- Case management
- Chore services
- Emergency response systems
- Skilled nursing services
- Nutritional counseling
- Respite
- Companion services
- Transportation for errands and medical appointments
To qualify for services, applicants must need at least one covered service during each calendar quarter, and they must live in a facility able to provide the service. They must be at least 65 years old, legal U.S. citizens or residents and residents of Iowa. Before they can receive services, the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise, Medical Services Unit, must determine that they need nursing home or skilled nursing services.
To get more information on the Elderly Waiver or to apply for coverage, seniors can contact their county’s Iowa Department of Human Services office.
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Iowa
To qualify for Medicaid, seniors in Iowa must meet income guidelines. These guidelines are consistent with the financial eligibility criteria for Supplemental Security Income. Single applicants may have an annual income of up to $32,904, and they may have up to $2,000 in countable assets. Married applicants, whether they’re applying alone or along with their spouse, can have a joint annual income of up to $65,808 and up to $3,000 in countable assets. Iowa provides several avenues to help those whose income and assets exceed these guidelines to qualify for care.
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two People | 1 | $32,904* | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two People | 2 | $65,808** | $3,000*** |
*Income limit is for applicant only.
**Income is limited to $2,742 per month per spouse.
***After six months of Medicaid eligibility, the rules for married couples change. They can then can choose to be considered as single applicants, which would change the asset limit to $2,000 each spouse.
In addition to meeting financial criteria, Medicaid applicants must meet criteria pertaining to their age, citizenship status and where they live. To be eligible, seniors must be:
- At least 65 years old
- Assessed by a medical team and found to need nursing home level of care
- Able to obtain waiver services for less than the cost of nursing home care
- Permanent residents of Iowa
- Citizens or legal residents of the United States
How to Apply for Medicaid in Iowa
Seniors can apply for Medicaid in person by visiting their local Department of Human Services office. Alternately, they can apply for services online through the DHS Services Portal.
Information You Will Need
Seniors need to provide several pieces of information to prove their eligibility for Medicaid and its waivers. These include:
- Birth certificate
- Driver’s license or state-issued ID
- Social Security card
- Copies of mortgage or lease agreements
- Medical records
- Proof of all income and assets
- Information for any other health insurance coverage, including Medicare and TRICARE
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Applying for Medicaid can be a confusing process, but fortunately, seniors and families in Iowa have several resources to turn to for support and guidance. Through the following agencies and helplines, Medicaid applicants can get help with navigating the process, understanding their benefits, obtaining memory care coverage and resolving issues such as denied applications or services.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Medicaid Member Services | (800) 338-8366 | Iowa Medicaid Member Services operates a helpline seniors and families can call for one-on-one assistance with understanding Medicaid’s benefits and the process for applying for the Elderly Waiver. The helpline is available on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For those who are hard-of-hearing, deaf or have difficulty speaking, Relay Iowa is available at (800) 735-2942. |
| Managed Care Ombudsman Program | (866) 236-1430 | Iowa’s Managed Care Ombudsman Program advocates for Medicaid beneficiaries and applicants, ensuring their applications and claims are handled fairly. Seniors and their representatives can contact the ombudsman for information on Medicaid and the Elderly Waiver, as well as assistance with the application process. |
| American Council on Aging | Contact Form | The American Council on Aging outlines eligibility criteria for Iowa Medicaid, including specifics regarding income and asset limits, what qualifies as countable assets and an overview of the Medicaid waivers available. It also provides information on how to find Medicaid planners who help those over income and asset limits qualify for services. |
| Department of Human Services | (515) 281-3094 | Through the Department of Human Services, seniors can appeal denied Medicaid applications. The website has appeal forms available in English and Spanish that individuals can fill out to request that their application be reconsidered. Seniors can call the Appeals Section for help with filling out the application. |
| Iowa Legal Aid | (800) 532-1275 | Iowa Legal Aid has legal professionals who help older adults apply for Medicaid. Through their local office, applicants get one-on-one assistance with navigating the application and appeals process, understanding their benefits and enrolling in the Elderly Waiver. |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Iowa?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Iowa. As was mentioned above, this doesn’t apply to Memory Care received in a Nursing Home. Since it is the most common to receive memory care in a “social setting” (such as an assisted living facility), Medicare won’t be a viable financial assistance option for most seniors who need Memory Care. However, Medicare will still cover things like approved medications, doctor visits, medical equipment, etc., just like it would if you lived at home.
For more information about when Medicare can be used to pay for Memory Care in a nursing home, and for Medicare-related resources, see our guide to Nursing Homes in Iowa.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Iowa
Seniors who are not eligible (due to location, financial situation, or other factors) for other types of financial assistance, do still have some options. See the table below for an overview of some of the most common ways to make Memory Care affordable.
| Name | How To Apply | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Aid and Attendance | Learn more and apply online at va.gov. | Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used towards paying for Memory Care. |
| Reverse Mortgages | Learn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.gov | If you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for Memory Care. Reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. Reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid with interest, typically within 12 months of receiving the loan. |
| Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance | Learn more about Long-Term Care Insurance and how to apply for a policy at acl.gov. | Seniors who already have long-term care insurance may be able to use it to pay for Memory Care. Most policies cover at least a portion of the cost, but it depends on the specific policy terms. Note that older adults who are already in need of Memory Care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Iowa
There are many resources in Iowa that assist seniors in their retirement. Caringn.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.
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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Department on Aging | 866-468-7887 | Across 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. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Iowa provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Whether living in their own home or in a senior living community, Iowa seniors can find financial assistance from numerous local resources. These organizations help residents cover some of the costs associated with in-home or long-term care and connect them with other helpful community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Elderly Waiver | 800-338-8366 | Seniors requiring nursing home care and can safely remain in their own homes, or in an assisted living community, can apply for the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Elderly Waiver. The level of financial assistance provided is decided on an individual basis. Beneficiaries take an annual assessment that determines the required coverage and level of services. Coverage may include assistance with paying the costs associated with assisted living, adult day care, home health aides, emergency response systems and home-delivered meals. |
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 Iowa seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Department on Aging Meal Services | 866-468-7887 | The Iowa Department on Aging provides comprehensive meal services and nutrition resources for senior citizens in Iowa — focusing on health, well-being and socialization. Services include meal programs for those aged 60 or older, nutrition counseling with registered dietitians and nutritional education resources. It partners with local food establishments through The Iowa Cafe program to offer services more efficiently. |
| Iowa Meals on Wheels | Iowa Meals on Wheels offers hot, home-delivered meals to seniors aged 60 and older and military veterans of all ages. Eligible seniors must have difficulty shopping or preparing food on their own. Volunteers deliver nutritious, ready-to-eat meals Monday through Friday, with three menu options available. Seniors who meet income eligibility guidelines qualify for free meals. Otherwise, meals are available for purchase. | |
| Iowa Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) | 800-972-2017 | The Iowa Supplemental Nutrition Program offers food benefits for individuals who need additional funds to purchase food. Many seniors in the state qualify for SNAP, and they can apply online through the Health and Human Services website. Through SNAP, seniors can supplement their food budgets to add more healthy foods to their diets. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Iowa collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities | 563-349-7339 | Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities sells donated medical equipment at affordable prices. All equipment is new or lightly used and inspected for safety. |
| Iowa Easterseals | 866-866-8782 | DME 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. |
| Iowa Exceptional Persons, Inc. | 319-232-6671 | EPI offers free loans on a variety of used medical equipment to seniors. Equipment, such as crutches, walkers, bath chairs and commodes, can be borrowed for any length of time. |
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 Iowa have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Rural Development State Office | 515-284-4663 | The 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. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Iowa 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program protects seniors against abuse and neglect in assisted living and other care facilities. Seniors can reach out to request intervention if they suspect abuse. The ombudsman works with the senior and the facility to resolve the concern and ensure adequate care. | |
| Iowa Office of the Public Guardian | 515-725-3333 | Iowa seniors who can't make their own legal, financial or health care decisions may be assisted by a guardian through the Office of the Public Guardian. To qualify for these services, a senior must be unable to pay for a substitute decision-maker, and/or have no suitable relative or other responsible individual who can act on their behalf. |
| Iowa Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman | 641-420-9850 | The 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. |
Senior Centers
Senior centers in Iowa 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa 211 | An 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. | |
| Iowa Care Planning Council | 800-989-8137 | The Iowa Care Planning Council is organized by the National Care Planning Council, a nationwide nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive information on issues that affect older adults. Through this resource, seniors can find information on paying for memory care services, including taking out reverse mortgage loans, applying for veterans' benefits and purchasing long-term care insurance. The council also has an updated list of memory care facilities in Iowa. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Iowa 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Association Greater Iowa Chapter | 515-440-2722 | The Greater Iowa Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association provides localized support for seniors dealing with cognitive decline and families caring for those with dementia. Help comes in several forms, such as support groups facilitated by trained association members that enable seniors with Alzheimer's to converse with others with the condition and for caregivers to build collective strength with other Waterloo residents caring for their loved ones. There are also care consultations, where counselors help seniors and their families develop road maps for care that prepare for a life with Alzheimer's. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Iowa 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Social Security | Social 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 Iowa 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Homestead Tax Credit and Exemption | 800-367-3388 | Homeowners 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. Iowa retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | 515-242-5655 | The 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
Iowa 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 Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa VA Benefits and Health Care | Iowa VA Benefits and Health Care helps ensure Iowa's senior veterans receive the care and benefits they've earned. With services ranging from health care and pension programs to disability benefits and housing assistance, veterans' needs are catered to accordingly. For veterans to be eligible for these programs, they need appropriate service records and Iowa residency requirements. To further show its commitment to Iowa's senior veterans, the organization offers dignified burials. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Iowa
The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, Health Facilities Division, oversees and regulates assisted living facilities (known as “assisted living programs” or “ALPs”) in the state. In Iowa, certain ALPs can become certified to provide memory care services if the Department approves its policies, staff training plan, safety procedures, service plan, and more.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | Dementia-specific residential care facilities and assisted living programs provide 24-hour personal assistance in a homelike environment that allows for self-directed care while promoting individual choice, dignity, privacy and independence. Certified units may accept residents with Stages 4 through 7 dementia as rated on the Global Deterioration Scale. |
| Facilities | To become a certified memory care unit, RCFs and ALPs must provide written policies and procedures regarding service plans and staffing. They must also establish admission and discharge criteria specific to dementia or Alzheimer’s. Additionally, all exits must have door alarms and specialized locking systems that can be disabled during an emergency. |
| Care Plans | Individuals must be assessed before admission into a dementia-specific assisted living program. Programs for residents with cognitive impairments must include scheduled and unscheduled activities based on the individual’s interests and abilities. Care plans are typically established by a multidisciplinary team and must be reassessed as needed or following significant changes in the residents’ health or cognitive status. |
| Medication Management | Dementia-specific units permit medication administration by the resident or by qualified staff members. Employees can assist residents with medication reminders, prompting and other setup procedures. In most cases, such activities must be overseen by a registered nurse. |
| Staffing | Nursing aides who care for cognitively impaired individuals must complete 75 hours of hands-on training, including 16 hours of precontact instruction. All personnel involved in dementia-specific programs must complete eight hours of relevant training at the beginning of their employment and during each consecutive year. Training focuses on 12 areas relevant to cognitively impaired residents. Similar rules apply to residential care homes. Background checks are required. |
| Medicaid Coverage | The Iowa HCBS Elderly Waiver covers the cost of self-directed attendant services and personal supports provided by residential care facilities and dementia-specific assisted living programs. |
| Reporting Abuse | Elder abuse occurring within a licensed health care facility must be reported to the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals at 877-686-0027 or by email at hfd_complaint@dia.iowa.gov. Iowa law requires allegations of misconduct to be investigated by an expert with special training related to abuse and dementia. |
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