About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Independent Living Communities in Des Moines, IA

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Who are you searching for?

Des Moines, Iowa, is a pleasant city that captures the heart of the Midwest. Known for its friendly people, beautiful parks, and vibrant downtown, Des Moines has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to catch a baseball game, explore the city’s historical attractions, or enjoy the delicious food scene, Des Moines has it all. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to growth and progress, it’s no wonder that so many people love calling Des Moines their home.

For active seniors seeking a low-maintenance home with plenty of social opportunities and a laid-back lifestyle, independent living communities in Des Moines may be the perfect solution. These communities offer a range of amenities and benefits, including different housing layouts to suit the personal needs and wants of singles and couples.

With 15 A Place for Mom partnered independent living options available within a 10-mile radius of downtown Des Moines, seniors have a great starting point to begin their journey toward relocation to an independent living community in the area. From yoga classes to fine dining, everything you need is available without ever having to leave your neighborhood or building complex. In this guide, we’ll look at the options, their costs, and way to pay; we’ll also explore health care, transportation, and activities Des Moines has to offer.

Des Moines Independent Living Facilities | 586 Reviews
Showing 73 communities
Last Updated: 3/27/24
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Types of care available in Des Moines, IA
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Independent Living in Des Moines, IA
3.8 / 5.0

We chose The Lodge of Ashworth Inc. because during the tour we were impressed with how clean it was and they had availability at the perfect time. They also remodeled her apartment before she moved in so she was able to pick things like her paint colors. The best part about the community is that she...

5 / 5.0

My dad is doing really good after picking this community from the list we got from A Place For Mom. He is enjoying the meals they make. He has tried some activities and he knows some people who live here. The staff has been great. I cant tell he is happy and when he calls he tells me good things.

3.6 / 5.0

I would recommend this community, it was a good choice for my loved one. The people really care for the residents that live here. The communication was good with the staff and families. I don't think I would change anything about the community.

Photo of South View Manor
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Elsie Mason Manor
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Elsie Mason Manor is a senior housing community that is located in the city of Des Moines Iowa. Our community is located in Polk County, which is an urban county. That is a beautiful city that is ideal for a getaway for the family and friends of the residents in our community. There are many...
Photo of Ligutti Tower
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Ligutti TowerLigutti Tower is located in Des Moines, the capital city of the state of Iowa. The most populous city of the state, it is also the county seat of Polk County. You will find Ligutti Tower in the heart of downtown, close to fantastic dining, theaters, shopping, transportation and more....
Photo of Prime Towers Apartments and Nursing Home
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Provides: Independent Living, Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Located in the heart of the East Village, Prime Nursing and Rehabilitation is a 44-bed skilled facility with views of the Des Moines skyline, capital and our private courtyard. We offer private and semi-private rooms with each room averaging 200 square feet. We have nursing staff onsite 24/7...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Virginia Park Apartments is a lovely, contemporary two-story building surrounded by a spacious, open lawn, which boasts mature trees and colorful flower gardens. This community is located just minutes from downtown Des Moines. Within walking distance is a grocery store and convenience store. The...
Photo of University Park and Arbor Heights
Provides: Assisted Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Walden Point
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Walden Point promotes choice, dignity and independence by providing a quality affordable assisted living housing option for persons age 65 and older. Walden Point offers private full sized apartments paired with the support of 24 hour on-site staff. Some of the amenities available at Walden Point...
Photo of Corinthian Gardens
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I think things have turned out very well at Corinthian Gardens, my loved one really seems to have settled in well and is enjoying herself! It's a very friendly community, and she's really enjoying being able...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Corinthian GardensCorinthian Gardens is an affordable, safe senior housing community located in friendly Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa. You’ll never run out of things to do here. You can visit the farmers market, spend an afternoon in Des Moines’ lush botanical gardens, or take a...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
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Photo of City View Residential
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of The Rose of Des Moines
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It's a nice place to live. I like that I have my privacy. The staff is friendly, and I get along with them pretty well. I do think some of their equipment needs updating. For instance, some of the...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
About The Rose of Des Moines The Rose of Des Moines offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom affordable assisted living in spacious private apartments with 24-hour monitoring and assisted living services available on-site and social programming in beautifully appointed community areas, including...
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Photo of Baker Creek Senior Living Apartments
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Wesley on Grand
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
See details
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My mom has been thrilled with the staff and all of the social activities! She's made many new friends and enjoys her time there.
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Designed for persons: 62+ Southridge Village II, located on a quiet cul-de-sac, is convenient to grocery shopping, and within blocks of a regional mall and a local pharmacy. Enjoy your independence in a great apartment home that includes utilities, plus air conditioning, generous closet space and...
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Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Designed for persons: 62+ An affordable apartment community located on a quiet cul-de-sac in Des Moines. Each apartment home features generous closet space, great views, plus all utilities and air conditioning are included. Southridge Village is within blocks of shopping, a regional mall and a...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Cummins Village is nestled away from the hectic mainstream on a quiet cul-de-sac, yet just minutes away from all your needs. We offer spacious one-bedroom apartments designed for comfortably accommodating those who are 55+. Income restrictions do apply.Apartments are approximately 562 sq.ft.,...
Photo of Fort Des Moines Senior Housing
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Plymouth Place
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Luther Park/Rose Glen Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Luther Care Services
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Highland Park Manor
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Stonecrest Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.

Costs of independent living in the Des Moines area

In Des Moines, the average actual cost to live in an independent living community is $3,349 per month, according to proprietary data from A Place for Mom.[01] Typically, these costs include amenities, such as full access to communal grounds and activities, property maintenance, lawn care and outdoor property management, and, if applicable, parking spaces and access to garage or storage units.

Please note that your actual costs may be higher or lower than the average based on the independent living community you choose and any extra services you choose to add.

The following chart represents starting costs of independent living in Des Moines and surrounding areas.

Average cost comparisons near Des Moines, IA

Average monthly costs

Des Moines, IA

$2,872

How people pay for independent living in Des Moines

Being able to reside in one of Des Moines’ independent living communities provides freedom and independence. However, since seniors are not receiving medical care in the community as part of room and board, these costs will likely have to be paid out of pocket each month.

Fortunately, many seniors can offset private pay methods to cover other costs of daily living through helpful resources, including VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare. Seniors who move to independent living communities rely on numerous ways to cover the cost of their medically necessary care, including those that happen in-home at their independent living apartments.

If you’re not familiar with these payment methods, please check out the following tabs to get an idea of whether or not they could work for you.

Private pay methods

Many seniors moving to independent living facilities in Des Moines use a variety of personal savings and income to cover their cost of monthly room and board. For instance, they may rely on the savings they amassed during their working years. Or, if they’re receiving monthly Social Security benefits, pensions, or even investment returns, those monies may be enough to partially or entirely cover the cost of living in an independent living community.

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VA benefits
8580

Number of veterans who live in Des Moines

About 43% of Des Moines veterans are 65+

Thousands of veterans call Des Moines home, which makes it one of the largest concentrations of veterans in the state of Iowa. When paying for independent living, individuals who qualify for VA Pension or disability benefits might be able to use those funds to help.

If a senior is already receiving a Veterans Affairs (VA) Pension, they may be eligible for other types of veteran-specific funding designed to provide financial help. For instance, the Aid and Attendance benefit provides monthly payments in addition to the VA Pension for vets who need help with their activities of daily living, have poor vision, are often confined to bed, or who are in a nursing home.

If it seems overwhelming to sift through these opportunities alone, research out to a veterans service officer for help. These experts in VA benefits and the application process are found through VA offices and Veterans Service Organizations (VSO), such as the American Legion.

Resources for Des Moines veterans

Government offices for veterans

Des Moines VA Regional Benefit Office
210 Walnut St.
Des Moines, IA 5030
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Polk County Commission of Veteran Affairs
2309 Euclid Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-286-3670
Email: Veterans.Affairs@polkcountyiowa.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs
7105 NW 70th Ave.
Camp Dodge – Building 3465
Johnston, IA 50131
Phone: 515-252-4698

VSOs 

Iowa Department of VFW
3601 Beaver Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-255-2139
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

American Legion Department of Iowa
720 Lyon St.
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515-282-5068
Email: info@ialegion.org

Disabled American Veterans
210 Walnut St., Room 566
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515-323-7539

Vietnam Veterans of America Iowa State Council
210 Walnut St., Room 559
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 563-650-3055
Email: ghpaulline@gmail.com

Iowa Paralyzed Veterans of America
7025 Hickman Road, Suite 1
Urbandale, IA 50322
Phone: 515-277-4782
Email: iowapvakim@yahoo.com

Medicaid

Medicaid may be the ideal solution for seniors who have limited means to pay for rent and health care out-of-pocket.

Medicaid is meant as a health care coverage vehicle for low-income adults. Medicaid will not pay for room and board, but it can be useful as a way to pay for medical care — including medical care that happens in an independent living facility.

In-home care can be obtained through a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, which is also called a 1915(c) waiver. There are multiple types HCBS waivers offered in Iowa including:

Fortunately, seniors don’t even need to leave home to apply for an HCBS waiver since the state makes it simple to apply online or via a printable application that can be mailed in.

Medicaid application assistance is available

Medicaid can be overwhelming to navigate. One good starting point to better understand Medicaid as someone about to move to an independent living community in Des Moines is to read the Iowa Department of Human Services booklet about waivers.

If you feel that Medicaid is in your future, consider attending the regularly scheduled Iowa Medicaid Town Hall Meetings. Or, if you prefer one-on-one assistance, Iowa Medicaid Member Services can also help you submit state-sponsored health insurance applications and renewals. You can also contact the Des Moines long-term care ombudsman to gather more information and assistance.

Des Moines resident Medicaid resources

Apply for Medicaid

Iowa Medicaid Member Services
2309 Euclid Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50314
Phone: 515-256-4606
TTY: 800-735-2942
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Social Security Administration
455 SW Fifth St. F
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Additional Medicaid resources

Central Iowa Agency on Aging
5835 Grand Ave., Suite 106
Des Moines, IA 50312
Phone: 515-255-1310
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Long-term care Ombudsman
Beth Burke
510 E. 12th St., Suite 2
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: 515-725-3308

Medicare 

Medicare serves as the nationally-controlled health insurance program for seniors ages 65 and above. Just like private health insurance options, Medicare won’t cover senior independent living housing. Nevertheless, Medicare can pay for short-term medical needs like doctor’s appointments, in-home health care, and surgical care.

Seniors not yet receiving Medicare as their primary insurance may want to get in touch with the Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) in Iowa. That way, they will be able to best understand how to make the most of Medicare.

In addition to the broader Medicare program, the state of Iowa runs Medicare Savings Programs for seniors who are having trouble making ends meet. This is specifically designed to help with coverage for Medicare Part A and Part B premiums and copayments.

You can also check out the Program for All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly (PACE), which offers support for care services and medical equipment costs for seniors in Des Moines who qualify for nursing home type care.

For seniors not quite sure how to navigate Medicare or the other savings programs, contact an ombudsman at the PEER Advocate Program or the Central Iowa Agency on Aging. Seniors can also visit the Des Moines, Iowa Social Security Administration office to apply for Medicare and learn more.

Des Moines resident Medicare resources

Apply for Medicare

Social Security Administration
455 SW Fifth St. F
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Senior guidance and counseling

SHIIP
1963 Bell Ave., Suite 100
Des Moines, Iowa  50315
Phone: 800-351-4664 or 563-421-1096
Email: shiip@iid.iowa.gov

Central Iowa Agency on Aging
5835 Grand Ave., Ste. 106
Des Moines, IA 50312
Phone: 515-255-1310
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Des Moines, Iowa Ombudsman
Bernardo Granwehr, Ombudsman
Bert Dalmer, Senior Deputy Ombudsman
1112 E. Grand
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Phone: 515-281-3592
Email: ombudsman@legis.iowa.gov

Understand Iowa laws and regulations for independent living communities

Because independent living communities in Des Moines are not care facilities, they do not need to be licensed or inspected by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals as assisted living facilities do.

This doesn’t mean that independent living communities aren’t required to stay up-to-date with regulatory requirements like codes and zoning expectations. They are. In fact, many independent living communities also actively acquire accreditation from entities like the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) to differentiate themselves from competing community options. Being accredited by this nonprofit organization means the facilities are committing to upholding certain standards and actively being checked against them.

Like senior apartments in Des Moines, independent living must comply with Fair Housing laws making it illegal to discriminate or deny reasonable accommodations. They must also follow the Americans with Disabilities Act, which (among other things) ensures you have the right to have your service dog with you in your facility.

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
321 E. 12th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: 515-281-7689
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Des Moines independent living communities

Iowa doesn’t require independent living communities to follow any specific Covid-19 practices. Nevertheless, it is wise to follow some best practices when you’re living in housing that’s shared with many other seniors.

An illustration of a syringe

Vaccinations.

Getting vaccinations and booster shots against both Covid-19 and the seasonal flu can help you reduce your risk of developing either condition or spreading an infection to others.

An illustration of a protective breathing mask

Masking.

Not feeling well? Going to be around people who might be infected or immunocompromised? Be sure to wear a mask as a protective measure.

An illustration of a person in bed within a house

Quarantining.

After being exposed to Covid-19, always isolate and test. You may want to speak with your doctor about quarantining if you test positive for Covid-19.

Get to know independent living in Des Moines

15Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.9/5.0 average in-network rating
86% of partner communities in Des Moines allow cats and dogs
79% of partner communities offer complimentary transportation
86% of partner communities offer resident parking
1873
Number of people we have referred to our partner communities in Des Moines
81
Average age of resident we have referred to partner communities in Des Moines
Gender split: 68% female

Types of independent living in Des Moines

One of the most important benefits to moving to an independent living community in Des Moines is the ability to choose from a variety of facility settings and types. Like all housing communities, each independent living location offers distinctive amenities, activities, and nuances.

Independent living with an eye toward the future

For seniors looking to the future, consider choosing a community attached to other kinds of senior-specific communities. For instance, though there are standalone independent living facilities, there are also those that are connected to assisted living, senior apartments, and memory care complexes. By moving to a community that has a combination type of living arrangement, seniors can easily change living arrangements as their health necessitates. Here’s how our partner communities break down:

  • 7 standalone independent living facilities
  • 7 independent living/assisted living/memory care facilities
  • 1 senior apartments/independent living/memory care facility

The onsite resources you need for active living

One of the hallmarks of independent living communities is the resources they offer to seniors who are active. More than half of the independent living options you’ll find through A Place for Mom offers onsite arts centers, barber shops, beauty salons, fitness centers, outside garden space, and complimentary transportation. Doing what you love is even easier. You can tickle the ivories on the facility piano or make a new project in the woodworking shop available at some of our partner independent living facilities. Interested in bringing along a dog or cat? Nearly all independent living communities we partner with are pet-friendly.

Options in the greater Des Moines area

The greater Des Moines region offers a few more choices for seniors who may not be able to find an independent living community that meets their needs within a 10-mile radius. Within a 25-miles radius, A Place for Mom partners with an additional five facilities. Three are standalone independent living complexes, while one is a senior apartments/independent living combo. The last one is a combo of independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

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Unfamiliar with Des Moines? Highlights for seniors

25,805

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Des Moines[04]

12%
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Des Moines population[04]
$45,238

Median annual income for Des Moines seniors 65 and older[05]

Health care for seniors in Des Moines

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MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center 

At one point or another, you may need an orthopedic evaluation and surgery or cardiovascular disease treatment. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center has earned high points for many treatments and also operates as a general hospital. It’s continuously been ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report, and is not far from the independent living facilities partnered with A Place for Mom.

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Broadlawns Medical Center 

Need a medical facility for an orthopedic condition? Broadlawns Medical Center may be a good fit. The Center constantly gets the nod from U.S. News & World Reports for its reputation as a top care center in the city.

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Veterans Affairs Central Iowa Health Care System-Des Moines

If you or your spouse is a veteran, you may want to seek out care at the Veterans Affairs Central Iowa Health Care System general medical and surgical site in Des Moines. U.S. News & World Reports points out that this site is especially strong in its emergency and surgical services.

Transportation for seniors in Des Moines

Though Des Moines, like most large capital cities, offers some public transportation, it’s best traveled by car. This doesn’t mean seniors can’t walk or bike around the city, of course. Walk Score rates cities on the ability for pedestrians or cyclists to get around; with a walk score of 45 out of 100 and a bike score of 30 out of 100, seniors may be able to travel in a way that nets some good exercise, too.

Feel more comfortable using public or alternative transportation methods? Don’t have a car? A Place for Mom’s partnered independent living facilities make it easy with 79% providing free transportation and 36% offering it at-cost.

There’s also the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority and its bus lines. The buses run around Des Moines and to popular sites. If seniors need a bus with accommodations, try the door-to-door Paratransit Bus Plus service. The Paratransit Bus Plus service may even be free to use for those who are disabled as well as low-income. Seniors can find out more about getting complimentary or low-cost service by calling (515) 286-3484.

Of course, seniors can always rely on Ubers, Lyfts, and other rideshare methods to go to the grocery store, head out to the shopping mall, visit restaurants with friends, attend events, and get to scheduled, non-emergency medical appointments. For senior-specific private transportation, reach out to Compassionate Care Transportation. Compassionate Care Transportation has a reputation for setting up reliable and affordable transportation for both individuals and groups.

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Walk Score

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Transit Score

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Bike Score

Senior activities in Des Moines

Making the move to Des Moines isn’t just about finding an independent living community. It’s about exploring a city that has plenty to offer. From cultural activities and live entertainment to outdoor activities and lots of cuisine types to choose from, Des Moines can serve up constant things to do alone or with friends and family.

For outdoor enthusiasts

You can enjoy all of Des Moines’ four distinct seasons. For seniors who like to bike, jog, walk, fish, and participate in water sports, Gray’s Lake Park is a must-see location. It offers easy trails and paths, as well as accessibility to other landmarks like the 14-acre Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden (seniors get special discounted admission rates) and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

Another fun place to go is the Blank Park Zoo. With animals from far-flung regions of the world, the Zoo offers tours but can easily be navigated on your own. If you’re looking for something different to do with visiting friends and family, the Zoo is a perfect landing spot.

For museum lovers

Perhaps one of the most important museums to visit in Des Moines is the State Historical Museum. The Museum is designed to give a broader picture of what life in this original prairie town was like — and how it developed over the centuries. The Museum is completely accommodating and accessible for those who use a wheelchair or need wheelchair assistance.

For seniors who love art, the free Des Moines Arts Center features works from artists including Georgia O’Keefe and Henri Matisse. The Polk County Heritage Gallery is another place to see art within a multi-use exhibition space. The Heritage Gallery focuses on highlighting work from both known and emerging artists.

For live performance buffs

Seniors who want to go to a live orchestral performance or an athletics game can easily do it in Des Moines. Take Principal Park, for instance. It’s home to the minor league Iowa Cubs. But season after season, seniors can find much more at this Park than just baseball. For instance, be sure to stop by for their annual Independence Day celebration.

Live music and theater are always on the menu at the Des Moines Symphony as well as the Des Moines Civic Center. Both organizations are fully committed to bringing the performing arts to residents and visitors. Plus, seniors may be able to get discounted tickets, especially if they fall into a low-income category.

For foodies

Seniors can find every type of food in Des Moines. From down-home southern BBQ to fine cuisine, Des Moines spans the gamut when it comes to taste options. To explore fresh and organic food finds, plan an excursion to the Downtown Farmers Market. It’s where local farmers and creative cooks gather to support each other and the community they serve.

Like adult beverages? Head with friends from the independent living community on a city brew tour.

For peer community seekers

Some of the best-kept-secrets of the Des Moines region are its Des Moines Senior Activity Centers. Each Senior Center is devoted to presenting activities and experiences focused on senior adults. However, don’t expect that Senior Centers to only cater to those age 55 and older. The senior centers in Des Moines often set up events that are family-friendly and appealing to all age groups.

To visit any of the Des Moines senior activity centers, plug the following addresses into your smartphone:

  • North Side Senior Services: 3010 Sixth Ave., Des Moines, IA, 50313
  • South Side Senior Services: 100 Payton Ave., Des Moines, IA, 50315
  • East Side Senior Services: 1213 E. 26th St., Des Moines, IA, 50317

For more senior activity fun, be sure to bookmark the Polk County West Side Senior Center and Polk County Central Senior Center websites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Woodlands Creek Senior Living, Independence Village of Waukee and Independence Village of Ankeny are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Des Moines, IA. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Independent Living in Des Moines is 2871.73 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

  4. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

  5. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median Income in the Past 12 Months (in 2021 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) (S1903) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

  6. U.S. News & World Report L.P. (2023). Best Hospitals in Des Moines, IA Rankings

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

4.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

5.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median Income in the Past 12 Months (in 2021 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) (S1903) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

6.

U.S. News & World Report L.P. (2023). Best Hospitals in Des Moines, IA Rankings