2902 North West 36th Street, Ankeny, IA 50023
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Rock Creek staff consistently go above and beyond in caring for residents. The staff at Rock Creek are amazing and kind to both residents and families. Hannah, the Memory Care director, is incredible with the residents. The Memory Care unit is cheerful and easy to navigate, with a beautiful garden for outdoor time. Karissa and Kanisha provide patient, creative, and personalized care for residents. Ashley Zinnel offers informative, honest, and compassionate guidance to families seeking placement. Rock Creek is a beautiful, clean facility with a warm, family-like atmosphere. The dining program and activities keep residents engaged and enjoying their time.
Rooms are small and not much to offer. One reviewer described rude staff, noting that an employee saw them and walked away when they arrived at a locked building.Courtyards at Rock Creek in Ankeny is best suited for families seeking a highly engaged, memory-care?forward senior community where residents thrive on structured activities, personal attention, and a clearly defined path from independent living to assisted living and then to dedicated memory care. The campus consistently earns praise for its dementia-focused programming, approachable memory-care leadership, and care teams that treat residents like family. It works best when safety, daily social engagement, and meaningful routines are non-negotiables, and when families want robust staff involvement in both care planning and daily life.
Those who may want to consider alternatives are families prioritizing larger private rooms, more independent living experiences, or a quieter, less activity-driven pace. Several reviews flag smaller rooms as a trade-off, and a few visitors note an occasional "institutional" feel in the building's interior. There are also isolated reports of a staff interaction that felt less attentive. For such priorities, a few other local options with bigger floor plans, lighter daily scheduling, or less emphasis on memory-care contingencies could be a better fit. In short, this community shines when memory-care excellence and vibrant daily life are paramount; it may not be the first choice for someone seeking maximum apartment size or a low-traffic, minimally supervised environment.
The strength of Rock Creek lies in its people and the care culture they cultivate. Reviewers repeatedly describe staff as kind, patient, and genuinely invested in residents' well-being. The memory-care team, headed by engaged leaders, consistently demonstrates patience, creativity, and cultural sensitivity - whether learning basic phrases in a resident's native language or adapting care approaches to a resident's rhythm. Families report that the team goes above and beyond during difficult days, with specific caregivers rearranging schedules to meet a resident's needs and even helping residents reconnect with activities that spark joy. This level of personal connection helps offset the inevitable challenges that come with memory loss and aging.
The facility's programming and environment reinforce that a high-contact, activity-rich model can yield real benefits. The memory-care unit is described as welcoming, navigable, and oriented around a central garden that invites outdoor time. Activities range from live music and arts to intergenerational visits and bus outings, with family-friendly dining options that resemble a restaurant experience. Families often credit these programs with restoring a resident's engagement, mood, and sense of purpose - an effect that compounds when staff communicate consistently with families about daily happenings and progress. The dining, cleanliness, and overall warmth of the setting further support an atmosphere where residents feel valued and connected.
On balance, the pros - compassionate, capable care; a dedicated memory-care leadership team; creative, resident-centered programming; and transparent family communication - tend to offset the small-room concern and the occasional negative interaction. When dementia care is the priority, Rock Creek's strengths in staff training, personalized approaches, and proactive involvement in movement toward greener, happier days for residents stand out. The community's awards, long-tenured staff recognitions, and repeated testimonials from families who describe staff as "like family" underscore a trustworthy, experiential value that matters in decisions about memory-care placement.
For families navigating a move, the practical next steps are clear. Schedule a tour with a focus on the memory-care unit: observe how staff interact with residents who resist care and how the team maintains dignity during routines. Request a live demonstration of a typical day, sample a meal in the dining room, and ask to meet the memory-care director to understand care-planning processes and family updates. Inquire about room options, current occupancy, and whether any upcoming renovations are planned to address space concerns. Verify access to respite or companion care if needed, and confirm how resident committees influence monthly activity calendars.
In the end, Courtyards at Rock Creek is a compelling choice for families whose top priorities are memory-care excellence, a warm, bustling community, and hands-on staff who communicate openly. It is less compelling for those who require larger private spaces or a slower, less structured pace. For many families, the combination of attentive care, meaningful daily activities, and a sense of home will justify the trade-offs, particularly for residents with dementia who benefit most from a lively, supervised environment where staff consistently advocate for dignity, engagement, and joy. If that alignment exists, Rock Creek often proves to be a thoughtful, well-supported next home.
6 resident community capacity
Active Adult Communities (55+)Active Adult Communities provide seniors with opportunities for socialization, activities, and wellness programs tailored to their needs. These communities offer a sense of belonging and security while promoting an active and independent lifestyle for those aged 55 and older.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
Des Moines International (16 miles away)
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.The Courtyards at Rock Creek in Ankeny, IA is an assisted living community that provides a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors. With amenities like telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, residents have the opportunity to stay connected with their loved ones and the outside world.
At Courtyards at Rock Creek, care services are a top priority. The community offers assistance with meal preparation and service to ensure that residents receive delicious and nutritious meals tailored to their specific dietary needs. Additionally, medication management services are provided to help residents stay on track with their medications and maintain their overall health.
Residents of Courtyards at Rock Creek can enjoy the convenience of various nearby establishments. With 5 cafes, 20 restaurants, 2 theaters, and a park located near the community, there are plenty of options for entertainment and socialization. Furthermore, there are eight pharmacies nearby, making it easy for residents to access their medications and any other health-related supplies they may need. Additionally, being close to 12 physicians ensures that residents have easy access to medical care when needed.
Overall, Courtyards at Rock Creek offers a warm and inviting environment with essential amenities and convenient access to various services. It is a place where seniors can feel comfortable while enjoying the benefits of assisted living in Ankeny, IA.
Courtyards at Rock Creek is located at 2902 North West 36th Street, Ankeny, IA 50023 in Polk County, Iowa
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