Legacy Gardens in Iowa City, IA

Information last verified:

15 Silvercrest Place, Iowa City, IA 52240

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

3.7 from 9 reviews
5 stars
6
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
3

Overall Review of Legacy Gardens

Pros

  • pro The workers were amazing and genuinely cared for the clients.
  • pro The nursing staff was outstanding on arrival and throughout the stay.
  • pro The therapists were very helpful and went over and above.
  • pro The entire staff was supportive.
  • pro The facility was very clean.
  • pro ThriveNow has wonderful staff and a great cook.
  • pro The ThriveNow staff are among the best.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer would advise others to go elsewhere and would not recommend the facility.
  • pro The reviewer states the facility does not take Medicare, effectively excluding elderly patients.
  • pro They claim there are no scholarships or Medicare offerings, calling it discriminatory.
  • pro They assert that Medicare cannot be canceled and that social security won’t allow it, leading to the elder demographic being shut out.
  • pro They say they would give negative stars if possible and express serious disappointment.
  • pro They note that sick individuals (e.g., a sick, alcoholic) are turned away despite beds being available.
  • pro They criticize the system for not accepting Medicare or Humana and call for accountability.

Review

Legacy Gardens in Iowa City is best suited for private‑pay seniors who want robust clinical care and a strong post‑acute rehab focus, backed by a clean, well‑kept setting and a discharge process that aims to smooth transitions out of the facility. The reviews repeatedly highlight nursing staff that are outstanding on arrival and throughout the stay, therapists who go over and above, and a team that feels genuinely supportive. For families prioritizing hands‑on attention, professional competency, and a facility that is consistently described as clean and orderly, Legacy Gardens delivers a reliable baseline of quality care. Those who want a facility that feels prepared to handle acute needs, with discharge planning that helps put a plan in place quickly, will often find the daily experience aligned with expectations. In short, this community shines for residents whose care can be privately funded and who value a tangibly capable clinical team.

That clarity around payer models, however, should guide the choice of many prospective residents. A recurring thread in the feedback is that Legacy Gardens does not take Medicare or Humana, and there is a perception that no equivalent scholarships or Medicare‑specific options exist to offset costs. For families relying on government or insurer coverage, this policy translates into real barriers to admission or ongoing residency, regardless of clinical fit. Several comments frame this as a foundational limitation: the ability to access beds and services is framed around private payment, not patient need. In addition, there are strong charges of discrimination from some reviewers who feel disabled or elderly populations are effectively shut out by the financial policy. That combination makes Legacy Gardens a markedly uneven fit for the broader aging population, and a risky choice for households with uncertain funding streams.

The main positives, the caliber of nursing care, the consistent, attentive therapists, and a clean, well‑maintained environment, have a meaningful role in offsetting concerns when private funds are available. Where these factors truly count, families notice clinicians who arrive with competence and empathy, a discharge team that communicates and coordinates, and a facility that feels well cared for day to day. When rehab needs are central to a transition plan, professionals at Legacy Gardens appear to deliver practical assistance, facilitating quicker, smoother returns to community living or to a level of independence that supports long‑term goals. The clinical environment becomes a tangible asset for residents who arrive with medical or functional challenges and require steady oversight, skilled rehabilitation, and reliable daily routines.

Yet the financial barrier cannot be minimized. The absence of Medicare acceptance means that a substantial segment of the senior population will need to look elsewhere, regardless of the apparent quality of clinical care. The stated and perceived lack of financial assistance tied to Medicare creates a mismatch between need and access. For families exploring options across the continuum of care, this gap often eclipses the positive impressions of staff and facility conditions. If Medicare is nonnegotiable, the decision at Legacy Gardens becomes a categorical “not now” rather than a blended evaluation of strengths and weaknesses. In practical terms, the policy translates into a cautious recommendation: the strongest alignment is with private‑pay residents who can sustain the cost without payer friction; those with Medicare‑dependent needs should shortlist facilities that explicitly accept Medicare or offer robust payer mix.

For families facing this decision, several practical steps help translate the review signals into action. First, confirm current payer policies with admissions, whether there have been any changes or workable exceptions that might accommodate private coverage or companion plans. Second, compare with nearby facilities that do accept Medicare and that provide comparable clinical capabilities, to avoid sacrificing care quality due to financial constraints. Third, probe the discharge planning process in depth: how does the team coordinate with families and with community resources to ensure a sustainable post‑facility plan? Fourth, request transparent cost estimates, including what services are included, what costs might recur, and whether there are private financing options or grants outside Medicare that can bridge the gap. Finally, visit with a few resident-readers or family councils if possible; the lived experience of daily life at Legacy Gardens, staff attitudes, responsiveness, and the consistency of care, will either reinforce or counter the strongest financial considerations.

The verdict, then, is practical and decisive. Legacy Gardens delivers strong, medically capable care, with standout nursing and therapy teams and a clean, orderly setting that makes daily life comfortable and predictable. For families who can fund care privately, the combination of clinical competence and discharge support makes Legacy Gardens a credible, often commendable option for short‑term rehab or longer stays where independence is a reachable goal. However, the policy of not accepting Medicare or Humana is a fundamental constraint that narrows the candidate pool dramatically and raises questions about accessibility and fairness for a broad segment of the senior population. In that sense, Legacy Gardens is a compelling choice within a private‑pay niche, but it is not a universal recommendation for all seniors or all families.

In sum, Legacy Gardens is a solid fit for those who can pay privately and who prioritize strong clinical staffing, rehabilitation intensity, and reliable discharge planning in a clean, reassuring environment. It is less suitable for anyone relying on Medicare or seeking broad payer flexibility, and for those households needing visible financial assistance or coverage options tied to federal programs. For the right payer profile, it stands out as a capable, reassuring option with real strengths in daily care and rehabilitation. For payer‑sensitive families, the question is not about the quality of care but about whether the financial terms align with long‑term plans and budget realities.

Features

Housing

  • 40 resident community capacity 40 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.
  • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.

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

  • Eastern Iowa (20 miles away) Eastern Iowa (20 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.
  • Mild cognitive impairment Mild cognitive impairment"Mild cognitive impairment" is important for seniors because it is an early stage of cognitive decline that can potentially progress to more severe conditions such as dementia. Recognizing and addressing mild cognitive impairment can help seniors receive appropriate care and support to maintain their quality of life and independence for as long as possible.
  • 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.
  • Specialized memory care programming Specialized memory care programmingSpecialized memory care programming is crucial for seniors with cognitive impairments such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment tailored to the unique needs of individuals with memory loss, helping them maintain their independence, dignity, and quality of life.

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

Legacy Gardens is an assisted living community located in Iowa City, IA, offering specialized memory care for seniors. Our residents enjoy a range of amenities and services designed to promote their comfort and well-being.

Our spacious and fully furnished apartments provide a home-like atmosphere, with the added convenience of cable or satellite TV, telephone, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet. Residents can also take advantage of our move-in coordination service to ensure a smooth transition into our community.

We understand the importance of maintaining independence while providing necessary support. Our highly trained staff is available 24/7 to offer assistance with activities of daily living, bathing, dressing, transfers, and medication management. We also offer specialized memory care programming and a mental wellness program to cater to the unique needs of individuals with memory impairment.

At Legacy Gardens, we prioritize the dining experience of our residents. Our restaurant-style dining room serves delicious meals prepared by our expert culinary team. We accommodate special dietary restrictions to ensure that all residents can enjoy nutritious and satisfying meals.

Engaging activities are an integral part of life at Legacy Gardens. Residents can participate in resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities that cater to their interests and hobbies. Additionally, our community benefits from being surrounded by various amenities such as cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, hospitals, and convenient transportation options.

With its comprehensive care services, excellent amenities, and prime location near various facilities, Legacy Gardens provides a nurturing environment where seniors with memory care needs can thrive.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • University of Iowa Family Care Southeast (0 miles)
  • Southeast UIHC (0 miles)
  • U of I Family Care (0.1 miles)
  • Peak Performance Chiropractic (0.8 miles)
  • Towncrest Dental and Associates (0.8 miles)
  • Eberly Scott M. M.D. (0.9 miles)
  • Towncrest Internal Medicine (0.9 miles)

Parks

  • Scott Park (0.5 miles)
  • Creekside Park (1.4 miles)
  • Weatherby Park (2.1 miles)
  • Riverfront Crossings Park (2.7 miles)
  • Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (3 miles)
  • Lower City Park (3.6 miles)
  • Thornberry Off Leash Dog Park (4.2 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Pharmacy Matters (0.7 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
  • Hy-Vee Pharmacy (1 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.1 miles)
  • Quality Associates (1.2 miles)
  • Drug Town (1.6 miles)
  • Towncrest Pharmacy (2.1 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (1 miles)
  • Java House (1.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.1 miles)
  • Sidekick Coffee And Books (4.1 miles)
  • Panera Bread (4.6 miles)

Restaurants

  • 2 Dogs Pub (1.3 miles)
  • BlackStone (1.4 miles)
  • Short's Burgers Eastside (1.4 miles)
  • Deluxe Cakes & Pastries (2 miles)
  • Taco Bell (2.1 miles)
  • Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon (2.2 miles)
  • Hy-Vee Market Grille Express (2.5 miles)

Theaters

  • Sycamore Cinema Iowa City, Ia (1.6 miles)
  • FilmScene at The Chauncey (2.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Iowa City Family Practice Clinic (1.6 miles)
  • Mercy Services Iowa City (2.6 miles)
  • Mercy Hospital (2.7 miles)
  • PICU University Of Iowa Childrens Hospital (3.5 miles)
  • 4JPEast (3.5 miles)
  • Uihc-Department of Otolaryngology (3.5 miles)
  • Uihc-Ambulatory Surgical Center (3.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • First United Methodist Church (2.8 miles)

Transportation

  • Iowa City Municipal Airport (3.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Legacy Gardens?
Does Legacy Gardens provide care for residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease?

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