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Best Senior Communities in Iowa

Reviewed by Dr. Jordan Weiss
Updated Apr 2026
We analyzed 7 homes in Iowa

Sources: CMS Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and Iowa Department of Health, Office of Aging and Long Term Care.

Explore home photos

Video Tour: Top-rated senior communities facilities in Iowa.

Watch this Video to see Iowa's Top-rated Senior Communities

Compare Senior Communities around Iowa The information below is reported by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing.

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Woodland Terrace
NH

Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).

AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Waverly
100No--- 87.0% 2510
Eagle Point Health Care Center
NH

Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).

AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Clinton
75No--30 70.7% 166
Fort Dodge Health and Rehabilitation
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

NH

Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).

Fort Dodge
65No--- 93.3% 00
Navigate MC at Featherstone at Hickory Trail
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Iowa City (Lemme)
32No--1-00
Journey Senior Services
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Carroll
36No--7 75.0% 42
Homesteaders at Holland Farms
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Norwalk
80No--4 42.5% 53
Hansen House
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Council Bluffs (Kane Township)
54No--15 53.7% 125
Grand Haven Retirement Community Moments
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Eldridge
36No--18 41.7% 2318
Gardens at Ridgecrest Village
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Davenport (Downtown Davenport)
30No--24 40.0% 3426
Emery Place
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Robins
106No--11 48.1% 1713
Cottage Grove Place – Connections
NH

Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).

AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Cedar Rapids
36No--6 38.9% 53
Birdee Cottage AL and MC
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Waterloo
33No--4 51.5% 42
Better Living of Walcott
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Walcott
67No--6 34.3% 51
Apple Valley Place
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Osage
78No--17 65.4% 135
Addington Place of Burlington
AL

Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.

Burlington
100No--17 46.0% 2619
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Overview of Thornton Heights Assisted Living

Make every moment count at Thornton Heights Assisted Living, a distinguished community in Lansing, IA, offering assisted living. Featuring beautifully furnished and secure one- and two-bedroom floor plans, the community ensures residents are comfortable and safe. Residents also receive exceptional care tailored to their daily living activities and personal needs around the clock.

A jam-packed calendar of engaging activities and enriching programs is conducted to keep residents active and socially connected. Delicious and well-balanced meals are also served three times daily to meet residents’ dietary needs and preferences. Emergency pendants are also provided for convenience and safety. The community is ideal for those looking to live comfortably in retirement, especially with its nurturing and welcoming environment.

What does this home offer?

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Accept Medicaid: Yes

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Room Sizes: 670 / 960 sq. ft

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Housing Options: 1 Bed / 2 Bed

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Building Type: Single-story

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Dining Services

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Social and Recreational Activities

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Parking Available

Contact Thornton Heights Assisted Living

Overview of Maple Ridge Assisted Living

Beautifully located in the serene setting of Mount Ayr, IA, Maple Ridge is a blissful haven that offers assisted living. With its commitment to improving residents’ welfare, a compassionate and well-trained team provides top-notch care tailored to their daily living activities and personal needs around the clock. Residents are guaranteed the utmost comfort and safety with beautifully furnished and secure accommodations.

A thoughtfully curated calendar of enriching activities and stimulating programs is conducted, encouraging residents to live actively and maintain social connections. Delicious and healthy dining options are served to satisfy residents’ dietary needs and preferences. The community is ideal for those needing assistance to live comfortably in retirement, especially with a nurturing and welcoming environment.

What does this home offer?

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Housing Options: Private / Shared Rooms

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Housekeeping Services

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Contact Maple Ridge Assisted Living

Overview of Keystone Senior Suites

Make the most of your best years at Keystone Senior Suites, a distinguished community in Keystone, IA, offering assisted living. Residents can keep their peace of mind with a compassionate and well-trained team that provides top-notch care tailored to their daily living activities and personal needs around the clock. With housekeeping and laundry services, residents enjoy a hassle-free lifestyle.

Dedicated to enhancing residents’ living experience, a thoughtfully curated calendar of enriching activities and stimulating programs is conducted. Mealtimes are something to look forward to, with delicious and healthy dining options served to meet residents’ dietary needs and preferences. The community is a good option for those needing assistance to live comfortably in retirement, especially with its quality services and well-maintained amenities.

What does this home offer?

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Housing Options: 1 Bed

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Dining Services

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Housekeeping Services

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Contact Keystone Senior Suites

Overview of Riverside Manor

Riverside Manor in Ames, Iowa, is a prime choice for seniors with diverse levels of disabilities, offering dedicated nursing care tailored to their needs. Within the heart of Ames, this facility goes above and beyond, aiming to create an exceptional memory care experience within a warm and home-like atmosphere. With a license for 59 beds, Riverside Manor is recognized as a large care community, ensuring a comprehensive range of services.

The facility boasts a vigilant 24-hour awake staff, ensuring residents have access to engaging activities such as entertainment, exercise, and wellness programs. Riverside Manor offers a plethora of enriching experiences, including outdoor excursions, pet therapy, music therapy, and more. Apart from the vibrant social life, residents benefit from essential services like housekeeping, meal preparation, and health-related services, including medication management and various therapies such as radiation therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy.

Contact Riverside Manor

Overview of Mercy Hospital

Nestled in Iowa City, Mercy Hospital exudes a sense of grace as it navigates the intricate landscape of the aging process. With a keen understanding of seniors’ needs, the hospital provides an array of services that go beyond the ordinary. From offering specialized nursing home care to addressing a diverse range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and more, Mercy Hospital is a trusted haven for seniors seeking comprehensive and attentive medical support.

As an institution attuned to the highest nursing home requirements, Mercy Hospital offers a holistic approach to seniors’ well-being. From osteoporosis to osteoarthritis, their comprehensive services encompass a spectrum of conditions that come with aging. The hospital’s commitment to monitoring and addressing potential complications showcases its dedication to delivering care that goes above and beyond. Backed by a team of compassionate and skilled professionals, Mercy Hospital ensures seniors receive the tailored support they deserve during their golden years.

Contact Mercy Hospital

Overview of Iowa Veterans Home

Experience the charm and warmth of Iowa Veterans Home in Johnston, IA, a high-quality community where vibrant living is paired with exceptional care. Providing assisted living and skilled nursing options, this community ensures that each resident receives personalized support tailored to their individual needs. Residents can enjoy comfortable, well-designed apartments that blend style with coziness. Conveniently located near shopping and dining, the community offers a perfect balance of peace and accessibility.

Iowa Veterans Home features a variety of enriching amenities, including indoor common areas for social gatherings. Residents can take part in numerous activities that align with their interests and promote a strong sense of community. Here, each day crafted with joy, comfort, and a dedication to exceptional living.

What does this home offer?

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Accept Medicaid: Yes, Accept

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Total Residents: 702 Residents

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Housing Options: Private / Semi-Private Rooms

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Building Type: Single-story

Contact Iowa Veterans Home

Overview of Lifechoices at Bethany

Lifechoices at Bethany’s innovative membership model encompasses nursing home and assisted living care, wellness education, coaching, environmental services, and in-home assistance, shaping an unparalleled approach to senior care. As a nonprofit organization, they take pride in elevating seniors’ lives, offering an arrangement where members pay an entrance fee and a monthly membership fee, securing a lifetime of care. Their transparency and compassion shine through in discussions about each member’s unique care needs, creating an environment where older adults can thrive.

From medical services like medication management, home health aides, registered nurses, dietitians, and therapists to non-medical offerings such as engaging social activities, chaplain services, massage therapy, and more, every aspect of seniors’ well-being is meticulously addressed. The inclusion of medical transportation and personal emergency response systems further exemplifies their commitment to holistic care. In this nurturing environment, seniors find not just a community but a dedicated support system.

Contact LifeChoices at Bethany

Overview of Mary Greeley Medical Center

Mary Greeley Medical Center provides unparalleled 24/7 nursing care. This remarkable 220-bed hospital excels in delivering top-notch and cost-effective medical services. Their commitment to senior health is unwavering, offering rigorous screening options and a range of programs that truly elevate lives.

For individuals aged 60 and above, Mary Greeley Medical Center provides a safe haven with its reliable services. From orthopedics and cancer care to cardiac care and beyond, they cover a comprehensive spectrum of medical needs. Additionally, they extend their expertise to services like foot care, blood pressure screenings, and invaluable health education. In essence, they stand as a testament to the best care nursing homes, ensuring seniors receive exceptional and compassionate care in a state-of-the-art facility.

Contact Mary Greeley Medical Center

Overview of Heartwood House

Heartwood House is a cherished haven for seniors in Ames, Iowa. This beloved community provides round-the-clock support to seniors, ensuring their well-being 24 hours a day. Specializing in memory care, Heartwood House offers a range of services including diabetic care, medication management, wheelchair-accessible showers, and respite care. The facility boasts both indoor and outdoor common areas, all meticulously secured for residents’ safety. Convenient resident parking is available, enhancing accessibility.

Beyond its comprehensive care services, Heartwood House is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere. Seniors here enjoy a plethora of engaging activities, ensuring their days are filled with joy and companionship. It’s a tastefully designed community where residents find comfort, camaraderie, and a fulfilling lifestyle. Heartwood House is especially well-regarded for its Alzheimer’s care, providing residents with a warm, inviting, and secure environment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking top-tier memory care living.

Contact Heartwood House

Care Initiatives

1611 W Lakes Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Overview of Care Initiatives

Care Initiatives, located in West Des Moines, Iowa, is a care facility offering a spectrum of services that offer skilled nursing, long-term care, rehabilitation, and hospice care. Their unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of those they serve is evident in their approach. Every interaction with residents is valued, and they prioritize personal growth for each individual. Care Initiatives boasts a team of dedicated professionals, including registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants, who provide various services, spanning dietary support, social services, and engaging activities.
In terms of skilled nursing services, Care Initiatives excels in providing specialized care such as tube feedings, wound care management, and access to beauty and barbershop services. They also offer bariatric accommodations and cater to the unique needs of veterans. Additionally, their rehabilitation services are top-notch, featuring accelerated care, state-of-the-art therapy equipment, and expert care in occupational, physical, and speech therapy. Care Initiatives is renowned for its expertise, making it a trusted community where seniors can be assured of safe and high-quality care.

Contact Care Initiatives

Assisted Living Magazine Ranking Methodology

View Full Ranking Methodology

How Assisted Living Magazine Evaluates & Scores Nursing Homes

Assisted Living Magazine ranks nursing homes using a rigorous, data-driven scoring model built specifically for skilled nursing.
Because this care level is regulated, clinical outcomes and compliance carry significantly more weight than transparency or digital presence.
Each community receives a ranking based on the factors below, weighted according to their importance in predicting resident safety, care quality, and long-term stability.

Update cadence: Reviewed quarterly, with prompt updates when new reviews, reports, or complaints are filed.

What We Prioritize Most

The largest share of every nursing home’s score — 45% of the total weighting — comes from clinical and regulatory indicators, including:

  • Overall, staffing, and inspection ratings
  • Long-stay and short-stay quality measures
  • Nurse-to-resident and staff-to-resident ratios
  • Health deficiencies and regulatory history
  • Accreditations and positive local news reporting

These factors directly reflect resident safety, care quality, and compliance.

Operational Stability & Resident Support

Another 35% of the score comes from operational and stability signals, such as:

  • Nurse hours per patient per day
  • Occupancy levels and cleanliness citations
  • Administrative stability and ownership quality
  • Readmission rates and registered-nurse turnover
Balancing Additional Factors

The remaining 20% of the score includes contextual elements such as:

  • Year built or renovated
  • Penalties, fines, and preventable readmissions
  • Revenue per bed
  • Administrator tenure

These factors help round out the overall picture but carry less weight because our methodology prioritizes clinical outcomes and regulatory consistency above all else.
The result is a clear, data-driven ranking system that elevates nursing homes delivering exceptional care and long-term resident safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What government services provide money for senior housing?

Several government programs offer financial assistance for senior housing in various countries, focusing on the United States for a broad overview:

  • Medicaid: Medicaid is a state and federally funded program that can cover the costs of nursing home care for those who meet eligibility criteria, including income and asset limits. Some states also offer Medicaid waivers that help pay for home and community-based services to prevent or delay nursing home placement.
  • Medicare: Medicare, primarily a health insurance program for people aged 65 and over, does not cover long-term housing costs. However, it can cover short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility under specific conditions following a hospital stay.
  • Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program: This program provides housing for low-income seniors. It offers rental assistance and access to supportive services, such as cleaning, cooking, and transportation.
  • Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties: While not a direct subsidy, LIHTC encourages developers to create affordable housing. Seniors with low incomes can find reduced-rent apartments through this program.
  • State and Local Programs: Many states, counties, and cities offer their own programs to assist seniors with housing costs. These can include property tax relief programs, rental assistance programs, and programs that offer affordable senior housing options.
  • Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA offers several programs for veterans, including the Aid and Attendance benefit, which provides monthly payments to veterans who require the aid of another person, or are housebound, to help cover the cost of care in homes, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.
  • Social Security: While Social Security primarily provides retirement income, for many seniors, these benefits are a crucial part of their budget, including housing costs.
How do you pick the homes you recommend?

Before recommending homes, we conduct a thorough evaluation on crucial factors that define a senior home such as the quality of care they provide, the reputation of the organization, and a comprehensive review of community testimonials as well. Every detail is assessed to assure that seniors are offered not just senior care options, but trustworthy homes where they can experience the care that they deserve.

Do you help families that need Medicaid?

Yes. Assisting families who need Medicaid is important to us as it plays a crucial role in offering financial support to seniors confronting economic challenges. We would like to keep essential healthcare services accessible to all community members, irrespective of one’s financial circumstances.

How much does this service cost?

We extend our services at no cost, ensuring that families and seniors can benefit from tailored assistance in their search for care and home options. Our ability to offer personalized guidance without charge to families and seniors is made possible through the support and funding from the communities with which we team up. 

What services do you offer?
  • Finding and ranking the best assisted living facilities
  • Finding and ranking the best nursing homes
  • Finding and ranking the best memory care facilities
  • Our concierge service helps seniors move into the perfect home for them
  • Helping seniors use medicare, medicaid, and other government programs to pay for their homes
  • Helping seniors avoid senior homes that have bad service or fraud
  • Helping seniors avoid senior homes that have bad service or fraud
  • Autobiography & Family History Writing + Research
  • Senior-focused concierge medicine
  • Senior-focused nutritionist
  • Senior-focused personal training
  • Memory care specialists
  • Custom wheelchairs at all price points.
  • Custom hearing aids
  • Cosmetic skincare + dermatology
  • Companionship: We offer in-person and virtual companionship services. Someone engaging to hang out with or talk to on video chat.
  • Senior housing concierge. Our service finds the best senior living options based on your needs, income, and personality.
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Your Senior Care Partner, Every Step of the Way

We help families find affordable senior communities and unlock same day discounts, Medicaid, and Medicare options tailored to your needs.

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