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Des Moines, IA Assisted Living

Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, IA offers a wide array of assisted living options that cater to the unique needs of its senior population. Whether your loved one requires basic assistance with daily activities, access to specialized memory care, or a vibrant community atmosphere, Des Moines, IA’s assisted living facilities provide compassionate, professional care in a variety of settings. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the costs, regulations, services, and payment options associated with assisted living in the state of Des Moines, IA.

Overview of Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA

  • Number of licensed facilities: Over 450 licensed assisted living programs across the state 
  • Types of care services offered: 
    • General assisted living 
    • Memory care (Alzheimer’s and other dementias) 
    • Skilled nursing and rehabilitation 
    • Hospice and palliative care 
    • Respite care 
  • Location types: 
    • Urban centers like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids 
    • Suburban communities 
    • Small towns and rural settings 

Understanding the Cost of Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA

The cost of assisted living in Des Moines, IA varies based on location, services provided, and amenities offered. Overall, Des Moines, IA remains more affordable than many states, but prices can still fluctuate widely between rural and metropolitan areas.

Average Monthly Costs in Des Moines, IA

Facility Type Private Room Shared Room
Basic Assisted Living $4,100 $3,200
Memory Care $5,000 $4,000
Skilled Nursing Facility (Private Pay) $7,300 $6,200
Respite Care (Short-Term Stay) $150–$250 per day $120–$200 per day

State Comparison Chart

State Average Monthly Cost Total Licensed Facilities Memory Care Availability
Des Moines, IA $4,100 450+ Yes
Illinois $4,750 1,200+ Yes
Minnesota $4,500 1,000+ Yes
Nebraska $4,000 300+ Yes
National Average $4,300 28,900+ Yes

Cost Factors to Consider

  • Location: Facilities in metro areas like Des Moines tend to cost more than those in smaller towns. 
  • Level of care: Residents needing help with medication management, mobility, or memory care may face higher fees. 
  • Amenities: Transportation services, meal plans, on-site beauty salons, fitness programs, and private apartments may increase monthly rates. 

Fast Facts About Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA

Category Des Moines, IA National Average
Average Monthly Cost $4,100 $4,300
Number of Licensed Facilities 450+ 28,900+
Medicaid Coverage Limited Limited
Memory Care Availability Yes Yes

  • Licensing Authority: Des Moines, IA Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), Health Facilities Division 
  • Staffing Requirements: Vary by facility type but must comply with Des Moines, IA Administrative Code Chapter 69 
  • Resident Demographics: Primarily adults age 65+, with a growing number of residents over age 85 

Regulatory Standards in Des Moines, IA

Assisted living programs in Des Moines, IA are strictly regulated to ensure the safety, dignity, and health of residents. The state’s oversight helps maintain a high standard of care across all licensed facilities.

Key Regulatory Requirements

Requirement Standard
Licensing Entity Des Moines, IA Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing
Minimum Staffing Sufficient staff to meet the needs of all residents 24/7
Health & Safety Inspections Conducted every 24 months or as needed
Training Requirements Staff must complete training in dementia care, medication management, and emergency response
Resident Rights Residents must be treated with respect, have access to medical care, and retain personal autonomy where possible

Navigating Payment Options in Des Moines, IA

Paying for assisted living can be a major concern for families. Fortunately, several financial resources are available to help cover costs in Des Moines, IA.

Common Payment Options

Payment Option Coverage Provided Notes
Private Pay Full or partial Most common method using retirement savings, pensions, or family contributions
Long-Term Care Insurance Varies by policy May cover assisted living if the policy specifically includes this
Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits Partial Eligible veterans and spouses may qualify for Aid & Attendance
Medicaid (Elderly Waiver Program) Partial Des Moines, IA Medicaid’s Elderly Waiver provides limited assistance for those who qualify

Des Moines, IA’s Elderly Waiver Program

  • Administered by: Des Moines, IA Medicaid Enterprise (IME) 
  • Eligibility: 
    • Must be 65 or older 
    • Meet income and resource limits 
    • Require nursing-level care but choose assisted living 
  • Services Covered: 
    • Personal care 
    • Homemaker services 
    • Medication management 
    • Emergency response systems 
    • Transportation 

How AssistedLivingSeniorCare.com Supports Des Moines, IA Families

Finding the right assisted living facility in Des Moines, IA can be overwhelming—but you do not have to do it alone. At AssistedLivingSeniorCare.com, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way.

Our Services

  • Tailored Facility Recommendations: Based on care needs, location preferences, and budget 
  • Verified Facility Listings: Detailed profiles with reviews, licensing info, service offerings, and costs 
  • Live Support: Speak with an expert for one-on-one guidance throughout the selection and transition process 

Medicare and Medicaid: What Is Covered?

Medicare

  • Does not cover long-term assisted living costs 
  • May cover short-term stays in skilled nursing after hospitalization or surgery 

Des Moines, IA Medicaid – Elderly Waiver

  • Partial assistance for assisted living 
  • Eligibility based on: 
    • Income (individual limit around $2,829/month in 2025) 
    • Level of care comparable to nursing home requirements 
Program Coverage Eligibility
Medicare No coverage for assisted living N/A
Des Moines, IA Medicaid (Elderly Waiver) Partial coverage for services in licensed facilities Income- and care-based criteria

Let Us Help You Find the Right Assisted Living Facility in Des Moines, IA

With hundreds of licensed facilities and a broad spectrum of care options, Des Moines, IA offers a welcoming environment for seniors seeking support and community. However, navigating these choices—while considering care needs, costs, and regulations—can be challenging.

That is where AssistedLivingSeniorCare.com comes in. We offer:

  • Compassionate guidance 
  • Facility comparisons 
  • Personalized search tools 
  • Support through every stage of the process 

Take the first step today—let us help you find the ideal assisted living facility in Des Moines, IA for your loved one’s comfort, safety, and well-being.

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