Mercy Hospital is located at 500 East Market St in Iowa City, Iowa. It is a 16 unit skilled nursing facility. With about 33,000 individuals living in the zip code of 52240, the encompassing area is heavily populated. ...
Nursing Homes in Iowa
- SeniorAdvice's Guide to Nursing Homes in Iowa
- Nursing Care Directory for Iowa
- Nursing Care Costs in Iowa
- Financial Assistance for Nursing Homes in Iowa
- Iowa Nursing Care Rules and Regulations
- Free Nursing Care Resources in Iowa
Noted for its retiree-friendly atmosphere, Iowa holds an appeal for many older adults. Its cost of living is lower than the U.S. average, and certain state income tax exclusions can make Iowa's financial climate even more favorable. Several of Iowa's cities, including Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, are members of the AARP's Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. All told, seniors comprise a hefty portion of Iowa's population: Of the state's 3.15 million residents, 17.5% are 65 years of age or older. Meeting seniors medical needs are top-tier facilities such as those in the University of Iowa Health Care system, which offers neurology, cancer care and other important services. The MercyOne network also serves Iowa, and it has a variety of specialists.
Iowa has over 400 nursing homes with approximately 22,350 residents. Designed for seniors with advanced care needs who don't require hospitalization, these facilities provide around-the-clock supervision and the services of physicians and licensed nurses. Attention from various therapists is available as well, and nursing homes also handle residents' medication and nutritional needs. This guide discusses nursing home care costs in Iowa, the rules governing these facilities and various organizations and programs that can help seniors afford and access care.
SeniorAdvice's Guide to Nursing Home Care in Iowa
Iowa is an above-average state for seniors, according to the SeniorScore rating system. This system gives the average American state a score of 72, but Iowa scores 74. Each state's score is based on over 100 data points that are broken down into category scores for Finances, Recreation & Leisure, Health & Safety and General Quality of Life.
Iowa scored 64 in both General Quality of Life and Recreation & Leisure. Positives in the former category include Iowa's average population density, and a four-season climate. As for Recreation & Leisure, Iowa's selling points include the nearly 400 golf courses, numerous parks and more than 1,300 churches across the state.
In Health & Safety, Iowa earned a 65. Residents here have an average life expectancy of 79.7 years, which is over a year longer than that of the typical American. The number of senior living facilities and hospitals in Iowa is average, but access to Medicare-registered health care providers is high. One negative is the state's high crime rates.
Finances, where Iowa scored 69, is the state's strongest category, thanks in part to its low cost of living. While Iowa's sales and income taxes are slightly higher than the national averages, senior care facilities here charge relatively affordable rates. The state also boasts a low unemployment rate.
Top Nursing Care in Iowa
Located at 6701 Jersey Ridge Rd in Davenport, Iowa, Kahl Home is a 135 room senior care facility. The community is in a largely middle class area, with an average per-household income of $72,246. With about 14,000 ...
Heritage Specialty Care is a 201 bed senior housing facility located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. With a median family income of $45,733, the facility is in a largely middle income area. It is heavily populated, with approximately 39,000 ...
Located at 1221 S Gear St in West Burlington, Iowa, Great River Klein Center is a 165 unit senior care community. With roughly 5,000 individuals residing in the zip code of 52655, the neighboring area is sparsely populated. ...
Located at 3800 Commerce Blvd in Davenport, Iowa, Manorcare Health Services-Utica Ridge is a 120 room nursing facility. The surrounding area has an average population density, with about 14,000 people residing in the 52807 zip code. It is ...
Located at 423 Roosevelt St in Remsen, Iowa, Happy Siesta Health Care Center is a 62 room nursing facility. The facility is in a predominantly middle income area, with a median family income of $56,803. With about 4,000 ...
Cottage Grove Place is located at 2115 1st Avenue SE in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It is a 52 bed senior care community. The community is in a largely middle income area, with an average per-family income of $59,067. ...
Winslow House Care Center is a 50 unit senior community located in Marion, Iowa. The community is in a largely middle income area, with a median per-family income of $63,425. With around 38,000 individuals living in the 52302 ...
West Bridge Care and Rehabilitation is located at 1015 West Summit in Winterset, Iowa. It is a 70 bed nursing care facility. The neighboring area has a medium-density population, with roughly 9,000 people residing in the 50273 zip ...
Northern Mahaska Specialty Care is a 63 bed senior care community situated in Oskaloosa, Iowa. The facility is in a mostly middle class area, with a median per-family income of $41,506. With roughly 16,000 people residing in the ...
Hillcrest Home is located at 915 West 1st St in Sumner, Iowa. It is a 71 unit senior housing community. The facility is in a predominantly middle class area, with a median household income of $47,913. It ...
Elmwood Care Centre is a 54 unit senior housing facility situated in Onawa, Iowa. The facility is in a largely middle income area, with a median per-family income of $37,691. With around 5,000 poeple living in the 51040 ...
Genesis Senior Living Center is an 80 bed senior care facility. It is situated in the Watrous South neighborhood of Des Moines, Iowa. With a median family income of $41,995, the facility is in a largely middle class ...
Good Neighbor Home is a 133 room senior care community situated in Manchester, Iowa. The community is in a generally middle income area, with an average family income of $46,013. It has a medium-density population, with about 9,000 ...
Manorcare Health Services is a 99 room nursing home facility situated in Dubuque, Iowa. With around 44,000 residents in the 52001 zip code, the encompassing area is heavily populated. It is a largely middle class area, with a ...
Riverview Manor is a 50 unit senior community located in Pleasant Valley, Iowa. With a median per-family income of $87,933, the community is in a primarily upscale area. It has a sparse population, with approximately 1,000 residents in ...
Norwalk Nursing and Rehab is a 51 bed nursing care facility located in Norwalk, Iowa. The surrounding area has an average population density, with about 12,000 residents in the 50211 zip code. With an average household income of ...
Avoca Specialty Care is located at 610 East York St in Avoca, Iowa. It is a 46 bed senior care community. The encompassing area has a sparse population, with about 3,000 people residing in the 51521 zip code. ...
Located at 1600 Summit St in Red Oak, Iowa, Red Oak Healthcare Community is a 58 room nursing care facility. With a median household income of $37,059, the facility is in a primarily middle income area. It has ...
Green Hills Retirement Community is a 49 room senior housing community. It is located at 2200 Hamilton Dr in Ames, Iowa. The surrounding area has a dense population, with roughly 29,000 poeple living in the 50014 zip code. ...
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Iowa
Iowa's nursing homes charge highly competitive rates. The Genworth 2020 Cost of Care Survey reports that the average American nursing home charges $7,756 per month, while Iowa's corresponding rate is $6,570, which is nearly $1,200 lower.
Iowa also compares well to nearby states. Although the average rate in Illinois is somewhat cheaper at $6,235, nursing home care in Nebraska is noticeably pricier than in Iowa. Nebraska's average rate is $7,194, meaning Iowans pay several hundred dollars less. The cost gap is larger between Iowa and Wisconsin, where the median rate is $8,684. Minnesota's average is even pricier, at $11,026, which is over $4,400 higher than Iowa's average rate.
- Iowa: $6,570
- United States: $7,756
- Minnesota: $11,026
- Wisconsin: $8,684
- Illinois: $6,235
- Nebraska: $7,194
The Cost of Nursing Home Care in Iowa's Top Cities
Among Iowa's larger cities, Des Moines has a relatively high average cost of $7,148. Iowa City's average price is $6,859, and Sioux City's is $6,509. Cedar Rapids comes in at $6,540. Davenport is particularly affordable, as its median cost is $6,235.
- Des Moines: $7,148
- Cedar Rapids: $6,540
- Davenport: $6,235
- Sioux City: $6,509
- Iowa City: $6,859
Senior Care Cost Comparison in Iowa
In Iowa, nursing home care is almost $2,500 more expensive than assisted living, which costs $4,073 per month, on average. In-home care and home health care cost $4,767 and $4,957, respectively, placing those services between nursing homes and assisted living. Adult day health care offers the lowest median rate at $1,353.
- Memory Care: $5,091
- Assisted Living: $4,073
- In-Home Care: $4,767
- Home Health Care: $4,957
- Adult Day Care: $1,353
- Nursing Home Care: $6,570
Financial Assistance for Nursing Home Care in Iowa
As you can see above, Nursing Home Care is often the most expensive senior care option – sometimes even 2-3 times the cost of other types of senior living. The primary reason for this is the 24/7 skilled nursing and other medical services that are provided. Thankfully, most people aren't forced to pay for skilled nursing care entirely out-of-pocket. Rather, many qualify for financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of nursing care.
Medicaid is the most comprehensive financial assistance program – but, not all seniors are eligible for Medicaid. And because each state operates its own Medicaid program within federal guidelines, eligibility and benefits vary from state to state. Below, we provide more information on Medicaid in Iowa.
Medicaid in Iowa
Many low-income children and adults can access health insurance through Medicaid, administered by the Department of Human Services. As of November 2020, Iowa had nearly 740,000 Medicaid enrollees. Most are enrolled in IA Health Link managed care, but some adults receive coverage through Medicaid Fee-for-Service programs. Many Medicaid enrollees can use their benefits to help pay for long-term care in one of the state's 432 nursing facilities. Iowa Medicaid also offers a waiver program that covers care services outside of facility-based settings. Admission to a nursing facility with Medicaid coverage requires a determination by the state's Medical Services Unit.
Medicaid Eligibility in Iowa
To qualify for Medicaid in Iowa, a participant must be a United States citizen and a resident of Iowa. Recipients must also belong to an eligible group; for instance, seniors 65 years of age and older.
Aside from those preliminary requirements, Medicaid eligibility is largely based on income and assets. Specific guidelines govern access to Medicaid-funded nursing home care. In Iowa, some of those guidelines are as follows.
- Single individuals can make no more than $2,382 per month in income and own no more than $2,000 in assets.
- If both spouses of a married couple apply, their joint income can't exceed $4,764 per month. Each spouse can make up to half that amount, or $2,382. Additionally, the couple's joint assets can't exceed $3,000 in value.
- If only one spouse is applying, that spouse's income limit is $2,382 per month, and their asset limit is $2,000. However, the spouse who's not applying can have up to $130,380 in assets.
Wages, veteran's benefits, Social Security income, withdrawals from IRAs and various other sources of income all count toward the monthly eligibility limits. Additionally, to qualify for nursing facility Medicaid coverage, an applicant must demonstrate a medical need for this level of care. To apply for Medicaid, interested parties can use the DHS benefits portal. A paper application is also available.
Additional Financial Assistance Options
- Medicare: For the first 20 days in a skilled nursing facility, Medicare will cover the entire cost of care, and a portion of the costs up until day 100. After 100 days, Medicare won't cover any of the costs. Importantly, seniors must also have a "qualifying hospital stay" that lasts 3 days prior to their admission to a nursing home in order to qualify for Medicare coverage.
- Aid and Attendance: Aid and Attendance may be available to veterans who receive a VA pension. This benefit is a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. It is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used to pay for skilled nursing care.
- Reverse Mortgages: For those who own a home, 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. It's often a good fit for married couples when only one partner needs nursing care, as the other residents of the home may continue living there. Keep in mind that reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid (with interest), typically within 12 months of receiving the loan.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: For seniors who already have long-term care insurance, the cost of skilled nursing care may be covered. Most policies cover at least a portion of the costs, but it depends on the specific policy terms. It's important to note that older adults who are already in need of skilled nursing care will not be eligible to sign up for a long-term care insurance policy.
Iowa Nursing Home Care Rules and Regulations
In Iowa, the Department of Inspections & Appeals works to ensure that nursing homes provide high-quality care to residents. The department handles licensing and certifications. Additionally, its surveyors visit facilities to conduct inspections. The DIA issues disciplinary action when necessary, and it helps facilities maintain compliance with laws. Also relevant is the Board of Nursing Home Administrators, which licenses administrative personnel in nursing homes. Below are some of the important standards that Iowan nursing homes are expected to uphold.
Scope of Care | Nursing homes are required to provide care 24 hours a day, with services matching the needs of each resident. Example services include assistance with bathing, shaving and mobility. A licensed nurse must direct these services. Additionally, an in-house or individually selected doctor must oversee medical care. Some services are prohibited; for instance, surgery and obstetrical care can't take place in nursing homes. For admission, residents require a physician's written order. |
Care Planning | Each resident's care plan needs to take into account treatments, the person's health condition, including disabilities, and prescribed care. Plans need to be in writing and have goals, with input from each discipline involved in overseeing a resident. Additionally, plans must be revised whenever necessary and kept current. The facility's healthcare service supervisor oversees each resident's care plan. This supervisor needs to also direct resources so that each resident's needs are met, to the greatest extent possible, and to ensure that care plans are updated in an appropriate and timely manner. |
Pharmacy Services | The staff must administer all medications as ordered by a physician. These include topical, oral and injectable medications. Only qualified personnel may administer drugs, and injectables need to be handled by a physician's assistant, pharmacist, registered nurse, licensed practical nurse or physician. Nursing facilities must keep appropriate emergency medications on hand. |
Staff Screening | Background checks to detect criminal activity and adult and dependent abuse are required for nursing facility employees and certified nurse aid trainees. On employment applications, facilities must inquire about records of certain crimes and abuse. |
Staff Training | The Iowa Board of Nursing requires licensure before someone can practice as a nurse, and nurses must renew their licenses every three years. In nursing homes, nurse's aides are required to complete a state-approved 75-hour training program. There are also specific licensure and ongoing education plan requirements for Iowa nursing home administrators. |
Medicaid Coverage | Nursing home services are available for Medicaid-eligible Iowa residents. An application is required. Components of the application include a level of care assessment and income and resource verification. |
Reporting Abuse | To report suspected abuse in a nursing home, seniors and their loved ones can call the DIA's complaint hotline at (877) 686-0027 or send an email to [email protected]. Concerned parties can also contact the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman by calling (515) 725-3308, or they may find and reach out to their local Area Agency on Aging. Additionally, the Board of Nursing Home Administrators hears complaints against administrators. |
Free Nursing Home Resources in Iowa
Iowa Association of Area Agencies on Aging
A nonprofit organization, the i4a trains and educates the personnel of its member organizations. It also operates advocacy and public awareness initiatives. Additionally, the i4a oversees Iowa’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, the LifeLong Links program, which can help seniors and their families find resources through in-person and telephone consultations.
The IHCA is a trade association that advocates on behalf of its member organizations, which include nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It's active in the areas of regulatory outcomes, policy and workforce solutions, and it facilitates grassroots outreach efforts. The IHCA also offers a variety of educational resources and a directory of its member organizations online, which may be of use to consumers seeking information on available facility options.
Iowa Agencies
Iowa Department of Human Services
Address: 1305 East Walnut St., Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone Number: (800) 972-2017
Website: https://dhs.iowa.gov/
The Iowa DHS administers many important programs for older residents of the state, including Medicaid. The department also runs the State Supplementary Assistance Program, which provides funding to cover the needs of eligible aged, blind and disabled individuals. SSA funding is available for residential care in some situations. Other areas of focus for the DHS include disability services and the protection of dependent adults.
Senior Health Insurance Information Program
Address: 1963 Bell Ave., Suite 100, Des Moines, Iowa 50315
Phone Number: (800) 351-4664
Website: https://shiip.iowa.gov/
SHIIP is a free, confidential and unbiased service available to Iowa Medicare beneficiaries. The program's counselors are trained and can answer questions on topics such as benefits, prescription coverage and supplemental insurance. Additionally, SHIIP's affiliated Senior Medicare Patrol services may be of aid when issues like billing disputes and errors occur. When called for, the program makes referrals. Locally based SHIIP counselors are available throughout the state.
Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Address: 510 East 12th St., Suite 2, Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone Number: (866) 236-1430
Website: https://iowaaging.gov/state-long-term-care-ombudsman
The Iowa Department on Aging administers multiple senior-focused initiatives, including the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, which advocates for long-term care facility residents and their loved ones. This office's personnel aim to resolve complaints and educate consumers. They also provide information on various long-term care topics, including the rights of residents.
Office of the Public Guardian
Address: 510 East 12th St., Ste. 2, Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone Number: (800) 532-3213
Website: https://iowaaging.gov/elder-justice-adult-protective-services/office-public-guardian
The Office of the Public Guardian serves older Iowa residents by helping ensure their long-term wishes, including financial, legal and medical decisions, are respected. It also steps in on behalf of seniors for whom independent decision-making is no longer possible. When appropriate, the office can take on the role of guardian, representative or agent, among other functions.
Area Agencies on Aging in Iowa
To facilitate the delivery of aging-related services, the DOA oversees six Area Agencies on Aging. Each AAA assists seniors 60 years of age and older within its assigned service area. Certain services for caregivers are also available. Examples of core services AAAs oversee include home-delivered meals, the provision of referrals and information, benefits assistance and case management. Counseling on long-term care planning may be offered as well. Seniors can find their AAA online or reach a DOA professional for help by calling (866) 468-7887.
Veteran Affairs Office in Iowa
The Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs helps senior military veterans access VA benefits such as disability compensation, pensions and health care services. The department's personnel also assist with administrative matters, such as obtaining military records. In certain counties, funding for transportation and other needs is available. Additionally, the IDVA has a partnership with the Iowa Veterans Home. Older veterans and their families can find the office serving their county on the department's website. They can also call (515) 252-4698 and ask for a benefits specialist to learn more.
Social Security Offices in Iowa
The Social Security Administration is in charge of administering several benefits focused on older Iowans and individuals with disabilities. It's responsible for Medicare enrollment, standard Social Security benefits, survivors' benefits and Supplemental Security Income payments. SSI recipients who meet certain eligibility requirements may be able to access additional long-term care funding from the state. To learn more about qualifying and applying for benefits, seniors can find and contact a Social Security office in their area.
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