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Assisted Living in Ames

Independence Village of Ames

Assisted Living in Ames

Independence Village of Ames

Overview of Independence Village of Ames

Independence Village of Ames, under the esteemed StoryPoint Group, redefines senior living where residents are empowered to lead life on their terms. With unwavering dedication to assisted living and memory care, they create a warm familial atmosphere. This close-knit community, nestled in Ames, Iowa, boasts 24-hour oversight and specialized programming. Their offerings include assisted living with memory care services, along with personalized respite care.

The community prides itself on fostering new friendships and cherished memories through engaging daily activities. Additionally, residents enjoy delightful chef-prepared meals, ensuring a dining experience that feels just like home. Independence Village is meticulously designed for comfort, with a keen attention to detail and professionalism in their interactions with both families and seniors. Their exceptional assisted living qualifications make them a preferred choice for seniors seeking a vibrant and supportive community tailored to their needs.

(515) 292-2858

Capacity and availability

Smaller home

May offer a more intimate, personalized care environment.

Total beds 30

This home is often near full

That suggests steady demand, but availability may be limited.

Higher demand than most homes in Iowa
Occupancy rate 216.7%
Residents per day 65
Occupancy rate
216.7%
Residents per day
65
Bed community size
30-bed community
A moderately sized community that may balance personal attention with shared amenities and social activities.
Years in operation
24 years in operation
A longer operating history, which may indicate experience navigating regulations and delivering ongoing care.
Walk Score
Walk Score: 51 / 100
Moderately walkable. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, with a mix of nearby amenities.
BBB Rating
BBB Rating: A+ (Not Accredited)
An independent rating from the Better Business Bureau based on factors such as complaint history, transparency, and business practices.
How BBB ratings work

About this community

Occupancy

Occupancy rate
217%
In line with Iowa average
Occupied beds
65 / 30
Average residents 51 per day

License Details

StatusActive
IssuanceApril 23, 2025
ExpirationApril 23, 2027
CountyStory

Additional Licensing Details

License NumberS0041
Year Opened04/23/2001

Ownership & Operating Entity

Independence Village of Ames is administrated by Sydney Petersen.

Staffing

Key information about the people who lead and staff this community.

Leadership

ContactSyndney Petersen, Executive Director

Contact Information

Fax5152962134

What does this home offer?

Room sizes icon
Room sizes icon

Room Sizes: 403 / 522 / 738 sq. ft

Housing options icon
Housing options icon

Housing Options: Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed

Building type icon
Building type icon

Building Type: Two-story

Transportation services icon
Transportation services icon

Transportation Services

Fitness and recreation icon
Fitness and recreation icon

Fitness and Recreation

Types of Care at Independence Village of Ames

Assisted Living Memory Care Independent Living

Contact Independence Village of Ames

Inspection History

In Iowa, the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing conducts unannounced health and safety surveys to monitor compliance and protect residents in long-term care settings.

21 visits/inspections

11 visits/inspections triggered by complaints

Breakdown by inspection type
  • 8 renewal/recertification inspections
  • 11 complaint investigations
  • 2 incident investigations

Iowa average: 17 visits/inspections

Iowa average: 0 inspections

Latest inspection

Date June 6, 2024

Inspection history

06/06/2024 Recertification, Complaint
04/18/2023 Complaint
11/10/2021 Recertification, Complaint, FIC
05/21/2019 Incident
02/12/2019 Recertification, Complaint
09/17/2018 Complaint
02/21/2018 Complaint
04/12/2017 Recertification
09/24/2015 Complaint, Incident
04/15/2015 Recertification
04/21/2014 Complaint
02/13/2013 Recertification, Complaint
12/22/2011 Incident
09/13/2011 Complaint
04/26/2011 Recertification
12/27/2010 Complaint
07/13/2010 Complaint
11/02/2009 Complaint
05/09/2007 Complaint
02/21/2007 Recertification, Complaint
12/08/2006 Complaint

31 deficiencies

Deficiencies indicate regulatory issues. A higher number implies the facility had several areas requiring improvement.

Iowa average: 27 deficiencies

Inspection Report Summary for Independence Village of Ames

The most recent inspection on June 6, 2024, identified deficiencies related to staffing, dementia-specific training, nurse delegation assessments, and a nonworking alarm on an exit door in the memory care wing. Earlier inspections showed a pattern of issues with tenant evaluations, service plan updates, and emergency safety measures, particularly in the dementia-specific program. Complaint investigations were generally unsubstantiated, except for one in 2018 where tenant rights were cited due to medication removal without permission. No fines, immediate jeopardy findings, or license actions were listed in the available reports. The facility’s deficiencies have remained fairly consistent over time, with ongoing challenges in staff training and documentation, and no clear trend of significant improvement or worsening.

Compare Assisted Living around Ames The information below is reported by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing.

Filter by care type
Green Hills Retirement Community
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.

IL

Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.

MC

Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.

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).

Ames
56
Yes
18
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
40
78.6%
-
11
2
3
Bickford of Ames
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.

Ames (Somerset)
49
Yes
45
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
27
51.0%
-
28
14
4
Northridge 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.

IL

Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.

MC

Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.

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).

Ames (Somerset)
38
Yes
44
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
10
94.7%
A
15
3
2
Independence Village of Ames
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.

MC

Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.

RC

Respite Care Short-term temporary care — days to weeks — to give family caregivers a break. Full care provided during the stay. Often used after hospitalization or to trial a facility before a permanent placement decision.

Ames
30
No
51
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
24
100.0%
A+
21
11
2
Heartwood 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.

MC

Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.

Ames
-
No
36
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
-
-
-
0
0
0

Living Spaces & Floor Plans

Independence Village Of Ames Studio
Independence Village Of Ames 1 Bed
Independence Village Of Ames 2 Bed

Places of interest near Independence Village of Ames

Address 4.5 miles from city center — 3.67 miles to nearest hospital (Mary Greeley Medical Center)

Calculate Travel Distance to Independence Village of Ames

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Guides for Better Senior Living

Care Cost Calculator: See Prices in Your Area

Nursing Home Data Explorer

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Understanding Senior Living Costs: Pricing Models, Discounts & Financial Assistance

Financial Aid for Iowa Seniors

Get financial aid guidance

Elderly Waiver

Iowa Medicaid Elderly Waiver

Age 65+, Iowa resident, Medicaid-eligible, nursing home-level care need.

~$2,829/month (300% FBR, individual).

$2,000 (individual), $3,000 (couple).

Rural focus; waitlists possible.

Iowa Family Caregiver Support

IA NFCSP

Caregiver of someone 60+, Iowa resident.

No strict limit; prioritizes low-income.

Not applicable.

Limited slots; rural emphasis.

Medicare Savings Program (MSP)

Iowa Medicare Savings Program

Age 65+ or disabled, Iowa resident, Medicare Part A/B.

~$2,510/month (QMB), ~$3,380/month (SLMB), ~$3,598/month (QI)—individual.

$9,430 (individual), $14,130 (couple).

Three tiers; no waitlist.

Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)

Iowa PACE

Age 55+, Iowa resident, nursing home-level care need, safe with PACE support.

~$2,829/month (300% FBR, Medicaid-eligible).

$2,000 (individual), $3,000 (couple).

Limited to western Iowa (e.g., Council Bluffs); expanding slowly.

Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP)

Iowa SCSEP

Age 55+, unemployed, low-income, Iowa resident.

~$1,983/month (125% FPL).

Not specified; income-focused.

Priority for veterans, rural residents.

VA Aid and Attendance (A&A) and Housebound Benefits

Iowa VA Aid and Attendance/Housebound

Age 65+ or disabled veteran/spouse, Iowa resident, wartime service, need for ADL help (A&A) or homebound.

Net income < ~$1,984/month (veteran with dependent, A&A); pension offsets income.

~$155,356 (net worth limit).

High veteran demand in rural areas.

Able Up Iowa

Able Up Iowa

Age 65+ or disabled, Iowa resident, ability to repay loan, need for assistive tech or mods.

No strict limit; must demonstrate repayment capacity.

Not specified; credit-based.

Loans up to $25,000; statewide via Easterseals partnership.

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