Arbor Heights At University

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  • Interior

    Cozy bedroom with a wooden bed, patterned chair, and a nightstand with a lamp.

  • Outdoors

    Two people engaging in outdoor activities next to a small pool filled with toys.

  • Windows

    Cozy waiting area with two leather chairs and a potted plant by the window.

  • Dining

    A cozy cafe interior with tables and chairs by large windows letting in daylight.

  • Wheelchair

    A person in a wheelchair is smiling next to someone dressed as the Easter Bunny indoors.

  • Nursing Home

    Residents in wheelchairs enjoy a group activity in a nursing home, with colorful balloons displayed on the wall.

Arbor Heights At University

233 University Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50314

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3 from 4 reviews
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Assisted Living Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review

Pros

  • pro The staff at University Park demonstrated a strong commitment to providing care and support for residents, showing kindness and understanding during initial interactions.
  • pro The facility fosters a friendly atmosphere where residents build positive relationships with one another and the staff.
  • pro University Park offers a range of engaging activities for residents, including movies, crafts, games, and beauty services.
  • pro The food provided at University Park is praised for being well-balanced, nutritious, and enjoyable.
  • pro Residents appreciate the dedication of the experienced staff who take the time to address individual needs and concerns effectively.

Cons

  • pro The food is not good and poorly prepared, making it unsuitable for those with dietary restrictions.
  • pro The staff has been unhelpful and rude, failing to communicate effectively with family members.
  • pro There have been multiple instances of miscommunication regarding medical care and treatment plans.
  • pro Management has not responded to health concerns raised by family members, leading to serious health issues for residents.
  • pro The nursing staff demonstrated a lack of knowledge about the resident's medical history and needs.
  • pro Residents' personal health information was shared inappropriately among other residents and families.
  • pro Timely communication regarding hospitalizations and care plans has been lacking from the facility.
  • pro There have been critical lapses in medication management that have resulted in adverse reactions for residents.

Review

Concerns and Contrasts: A Review of University Park

University Park has a reputation for being a supportive environment for its residents, especially those with special needs or health concerns. However, personal experiences shared by families have illuminated significant flaws within the facility that raise questions about care quality, staff competency, and communication practices. The conflicting reviews highlight both commendable aspects of the facility as well as alarming incidents that have left families feeling frustrated and worried about their loved ones.

The initial praise for University Park centers around the kindness exhibited by staff and their commitment to personalized care. Families noted how welcoming the staff were at the outset of their loved ones' residency. In a family meeting shortly after admission, the management demonstrated a willingness to understand each resident's individual needs—ranging from financial discussions to medical requirements—which set an optimistic tone. Regular visits revealed pleasant interactions between staff members and residents, underscoring a community feel among those living there.

However, this promising start began to sour as administrative hiccups became apparent. One family experienced severe miscommunication regarding important financial matters related to their grandfather’s care. Instead of support during what should have been a straightforward transaction concerning his home sale—essential for maintaining his residency—the facility’s staff appeared dismissive and unhelpful. Despite repeated attempts to resolve these matters with multiple individuals in charge, crucial calls went unreturned, ultimately leading to threats of discharge due to non-payment. This lack of responsiveness contributed significantly to familial distress at an already challenging time.

Compounding concerns were medical mishaps tied directly to inadequate oversight by nursing staff. A troubling incident highlighted how prescribed medications could drastically affect residents’ health outcomes; specifically, Lorazepam was administered despite clear medical advice against it following adverse reactions observed during a hospital stay. It became evident that precautions recommended by external healthcare providers were not adequately communicated or respected within University Park's system—a glaring oversight considering these decisions can profoundly impact resident well-being.

The handling—or mishandling—of potential health issues further exacerbated difficulties faced by families dealing with University Park's management. Instances where residents showed signs of concerning symptoms often led to insufficient responses from nursing personnel who either dismissed family inquiries or failed to provide appropriate follow-ups on critical health updates. The lack of continuity in care contributed not only to confusion but also created an environment where timely intervention seemed compromised.

Despite these challenges presented by some families’ experiences, positive testimonials still emerged regarding the community atmosphere at University Park itself. Many appreciated daily activities that encouraged socialization among residents—from films and crafts to exercise programs like Wii gaming sessions—that contributed positively toward keeping spirits high amidst trying circumstances. The general sentiment amongst some residents pointed towards satisfaction with food offerings described as nutritious and filling compared with other facilities.

In conclusion, University Park embodies the complexities often found in assisted living environments: it provides warmth through its friendly engagement yet struggles under layers of administrative turbulence coupled with serious medical oversights that cannot be overlooked. As families continue navigating caregiving decisions for their loved ones within these types of facilities, clarity in communication alongside strict adherence to health protocols will remain paramount moving forward into an era demanding much more accountability in eldercare settings.

Features

Housing

  • 25 resident community capacity 25 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services 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.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • Telephone 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 available 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.

Transportation

  • Des Moines International (5 miles away) Des Moines International (5 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing 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.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Diabetes diet 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.
  • Meal preparation and service 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 management 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.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Special dietary restrictions 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.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet 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 restrictions 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.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Arbor Heights At University in Des Moines, IA is a skilled nursing facility that provides comprehensive care for older adults. Our community is fully furnished and offers a range of amenities to ensure the comfort and convenience of our residents.

Residents can enjoy their favorite shows and movies with cable or satellite TV in their private rooms. Our dining room offers restaurant-style dining with delicious meals prepared by our talented culinary team. Special dietary restrictions are taken into consideration and accommodated.

The community features beautiful outdoor spaces and a garden where residents can relax and enjoy nature. Our small library provides a peaceful setting for reading and quiet activities. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access is available throughout the premises, allowing residents to stay connected with loved ones and engage in online activities.

At Arbor Heights At University, we provide 24-hour supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. Our dedicated staff assists with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also offer diabetes diet management, medication management, and special dietary restrictions to cater to individual needs.

Residents can participate in a variety of resident-run activities as well as scheduled daily activities that promote socialization and engagement. Nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, and hospitals provide easy accessibility for our residents' needs.

At Arbor Heights At University, we strive to create a warm and supportive environment where seniors can thrive.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Ruan Neurology Clinic (0.1 miles)
  • Mercy Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (0.2 miles)
  • Mercy Family Medicine Center/Family Medicine Residency Program (0.2 miles)
  • Diabetes Center (0.3 miles)
  • Surgical Affiliates (0.3 miles)
  • Samuel M Maurice, MD (0.3 miles)
  • Women's Health Specialists (0.3 miles)

Hospitals

  • Mercy Medical Center 7 South (0.2 miles)
  • Mercy Hospital Pediatric Unit (0.2 miles)
  • Select Specialty Hospital-Des Moines (0.2 miles)
  • Mercy River Hills Surgery Center (0.3 miles)
  • Unity Point Health (0.6 miles)
  • North 3 - IMMC (1 miles)
  • UnityPoint Health - Iowa Methodist Medical Center - Emergency Department (1 miles)

Restaurants

  • Heather’s Kitchen (0.7 miles)
  • Zombie Burger + Drink Lab (0.8 miles)
  • Iowa Taproom (1 miles)
  • Fongs Pizza (1 miles)
  • Royal Mile (1.1 miles)
  • Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company (1.1 miles)
  • Fresko (1.1 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (1.1 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.4 miles)
  • Caribou Coffee (2.3 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (1.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.9 miles)
  • Dahl's Pharmacy (2.4 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.4 miles)
  • Medicap Pharmacy (3 miles)
  • Kayser Hearing Aid & Audiology (3.2 miles)

Parks

  • Stone Park (2.3 miles)
  • Gray's Lake Park (2.6 miles)
  • Sayers Park (3.8 miles)

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