Walden Point in Des Moines, IA
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1200 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50314
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Walden Point offers competitive pricing for its accommodations, especially when compared to the broader market in Polk County and the state of Iowa. For a one-bedroom apartment, residents at Walden Point pay $686 per month, significantly lower than the county average of $2,528 and the state average of $2,862. This trend continues with two-bedroom units as well; at Walden Point, the cost is $807 per month, while Polk County residents face an average rent of $3,047 and statewide averages reach $3,329. These figures highlight Walden Point's affordability within a context where many other housing options could stretch budgets considerably higher.
| Floor plans | Walden Point | Polk County | Iowa |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $686 | $2,528 | $2,863 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $807 | $3,047 | $3,329 |
He likes the people there, and he likes the people that run the place. They have activities. They have people come in and play music. They have a craft room where they can do all sort of stuffs. They have an exercise room. The staff was good. Their price was very attractive. The backyard featured many places for seniors to enjoy around the grounds safely. It looked like a very nice community with a home-style atmosphere. The residents there are content and well cared for. The main dining room was comfortable and spacious. The residents were offered healthy, home-style cooked meals in a casual restaurant setting.
The facility no longer provides assisted living services to residents. There were many inconsistencies and the service declined after the first year. There was constant staff turnover, and items went missing with no one knowing where they were. Money went missing on two occasions. The Bright Star staff are untrained and unprofessional. The owner won't return phone calls and does not listen to issues about Bright Star staff. The food was replaced (from on-site Hy-Vee preparation to meals-on-wheels providers) and described as disgusting.Walden Point in Des Moines is best suited for budget-conscious seniors who want a home-like independent living environment with convenient access to basic health care and on-site social amenities. The appeal rests in affordable rents, generously sized private units, and bright, open common spaces that encourage activity without demanding constant supervision. The campus-like setting includes a small shop, easy access to outdoor areas, and a schedule of activities that can help residents stay engaged. For residents who can manage daily living with minimal on-site medical oversight, this community offers a practical, low-friction option that keeps costs predictable and living spaces comfortable.
However, this is not the place for anyone who needs reliable assisted living services on a day-to-day basis. Crucially, Walden Point has discontinued assisted living operations for residents, a change that fundamentally shifts the level of on-site support available. The reviews highlight a pattern of inconsistency in service, persistent staff turnover, and situations where basic needs or expectations aren't consistently met. Families should recognize that the absence of formal AL support means ongoing supervision, medication management, and coordinated caregiving may have to be sourced externally, with no guaranteed continuity at the community itself.
The strongest positives lie in the tangible, budget-friendly benefits: spacious private rooms, attractive common areas, and a setting that feels welcoming and safer for social interaction. Residents can benefit from a real sense of community through shared spaces, accessible dining-like environments, and opportunities to participate in crafts, music, and gentle exercise. The on-site atmosphere can be comfortable and personable, and several reviews note amiable administrators and caring staff on the nursing side - though there are caveats about overall staff training and consistency. For families prioritizing cost control and a sociable environment, these factors can meaningfully offset some moodier realities.
Yet the major drawbacks demand careful weighing. The most significant concerns - staff turnover, items going missing, money discrepancies, and a management track record of slow or limited responsiveness - signal red flags about reliability and accountability. Food service has swung between on-site preparation and external providers, with notable dissatisfaction after changes, which underscores how even routine daily routines can become points of stress. The combination of discontinued AL services, reported administrative distance, and mixed quality in front-line caregiving creates a risk profile that rises above what many families want in a long-term living arrangement.
In practical terms, Walden Point can work for a specific slice of need: independence-seeking seniors who want affordable housing and a pleasant, walkable environment with access to health care nearby, provided there is a robust plan for outside caregiver support if needed. For those requiring steady, on-site assisted living, complex medical oversight, predictable meals, and consistent staff accountability, alternatives are likely to offer greater peace of mind. The decision hinges on whether the resident can tolerate a flexible, externally coordinated care model while taking full advantage of the social and physical amenities on-site.
The prudent course is rigorous due diligence before any commitment. Prospective residents should verify the current level of on-site services, insist on a transparent staffing schedule, and request direct documentation about any changes since the AL shift. Speak with current residents and families about meal quality, daily assistance expectations, and how issues are escalated and resolved. Compare Walden Point to nearby communities that maintain full assisted living services with documented stability in staffing and governance. If choosing Walden Point, lock in a clear operational plan, confirm access to home health or external aides, and set concrete expectations for maintenance, security, and financial handling to ensure the decision aligns with long-term care goals.
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.
Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults. Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.
Des Moines International (5 miles away)
Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities. Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life. Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness. Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.Walden Point is an assisted living community located in the vibrant city of Des Moines, IA. Our community offers a range of amenities to enhance the quality of life for our residents. With a beautician on-site, our residents can enjoy convenient salon services without leaving the comfort of their home. We also provide devotional services both on-site and off-site, giving our residents the opportunity to engage in spiritual activities that are meaningful to them.
Our indoor common areas are designed to foster social interaction and provide comfortable spaces for relaxation and recreation. Residents can gather with friends and neighbors or participate in various activities organized by our dedicated staff. For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, our community features outdoor common areas where residents can enjoy fresh air, beautiful scenery, and engage in outdoor activities.
At Walden Point, we understand the importance of specialized care for individuals with diabetes. That's why we offer diabetic care services to ensure our residents receive the support they need to manage their condition effectively.
Our community is conveniently located near various amenities that cater to different interests and needs. Residents have easy access to three cafes, three parks, eleven pharmacies, thirty physicians, forty-one restaurants, and twelve hospitals nearby. This proximity provides a plethora of dining options, recreational opportunities, medical facilities, and convenience for both residents and their families.
Walden Point strives to create a warm and welcoming environment where seniors can enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle while receiving the care they require.
This part of Des Moines, Iowa offers convenient access to several hospitals and physicians, including Mercy Medical Center, Select Specialty Hospital, and various specialty clinics. The area also boasts a variety of dining options ranging from traditional American cuisine at Court Avenue Restaurant & Brewing Company to unique offerings like Zombie Burger + Drink Lab. Additionally, there are several cafes and pharmacies within a short driving distance for your convenience. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, Stone Park and Gray's Lake Park are nearby for leisurely walks or picnics. Overall, this area provides a blend of healthcare services, dining choices, and recreational opportunities that may appeal to seniors looking for a vibrant community in which to live.
Walden Point offers competitive pricing for its accommodations, especially when compared to the broader market in Polk County and the state of Iowa. For a one-bedroom apartment, residents at Walden Point pay $686 per month, significantly lower than the county average of $2,528 and the state average of $2,862. This trend continues with two-bedroom units as well; at Walden Point, the cost is $807 per month, while Polk County residents face an average rent of $3,047 and statewide averages reach $3,329. These figures highlight Walden Point's affordability within a context where many other housing options could stretch budgets considerably higher.
Walden Point is located at 1200 4th St, Des Moines, IA 50314 in Polk County, Iowa
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