Heartwood House in Ames, IA
Save1801 20th Street, Ames, IA 50010
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Heartwood House offers its studio accommodations at a monthly rate of $8,190, which positions it as a premium option compared to the general costs observed in both Story County and the broader state of Iowa. In comparison, the average monthly cost for similar studio living arrangements in Story County is approximately $5,271, while across Iowa, it averages around $3,613. This indicates that Heartwood House provides a higher-end experience that likely includes additional services or amenities not typically available in more standard facilities. Prospective residents should weigh these costs against the potential benefits and unique offerings that Heartwood House may provide to determine if it aligns with their needs and expectations.
| Floor plans | Heartwood House | Story County | Iowa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $8,190 | $5,271 | $3,609 |
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The staff are loving, kind, and patient, delivering exceptional care. They take time to visit residents in their rooms, adding a personal touch. The rooms are spacious and pleasant, with apartment-like layouts that feel like home. The center feels like a true community, offering supportive care. The facility is immaculate, with wide hallways and a friendly, non-hospital atmosphere. The dining area is lovely, and the common dining room is large and well planned. A wide range of activities and free services in arts and athletics, plus transportation and banking, enhance residents' quality of life.
They found the floor plan confusing and couldn't tell which door to use to reach different areas, making navigation difficult for their dad. They thought it would be lovely, but they couldn't afford it.Heartwood House in Ames is best suited for seniors who want apartment-like living paired with a genuinely engaged caregiving staff and a robust, social-minded calendar. The reviews describe a setting where care is personal and frequent: staff who pop into rooms to chat, a sense of real community during transitions, and rooms that feel more like homes than hospitals. For couples or residents who prefer two-room configurations that sit across the hall from one another, the layout can mirror an at-home, apartment-style experience rather than a clinical corridor. In short, Heartwood House trades a sense of independence for warmth, companionship, and practical conveniences that keep everyday living easy and connected.
Those who may want to consider alternatives are typically budget-conscious or someone who prioritizes a strictly navigable, straightforward floor plan over a bustling social program. Several reviewers flagged cost as a significant factor, noting that affordability can be a barrier even when the living spaces and amenities are appealing. Additionally, one practical concern that emerged is the initial confusion some residents feel with the floor plan and doorways - an issue that can be a hurdle for new move-ins or individuals who value intuitive navigation. For seniors who need more clinical oversight, specialized memory care, or a simpler, less bustling environment, other communities may deliver a better fit.
The strongest positives - exceptional staff, spacious, apartment-like suites, and a lively array of activities - do meaningful work in offsetting the main drawbacks. The evidence points to a staff culture that emphasizes accessibility and warmth, with care extended beyond routine tasks to meaningful visits and social engagement. The living spaces are described as roomy and homey, with the option to configure two rooms for living and sleeping in a way that mirrors a real apartment. The dining environment is attractive, and the common areas support a wide slate of activities, from arts to athletics, with transportation and banking services positioned as practical conveniences that reduce daily friction. In effect, the pros directly counterbalance the navigation and cost concerns by delivering a strong sense of community, ease of access to services, and a livable, once-you-settle-in rhythm.
To get the most out of a tour or trial stay, focus on a few concrete checks. First, map out the floor plan with a staff member and test flow from room to essential destinations - dining, activity spaces, laundry options, and transportation pickup points. Second, sample a meal and ask to see a week of activity options to confirm the calendar aligns with personal interests, whether that's arts, fitness, or social clubs. Third, verify the cost structure, what it covers, and whether there are flexible housing configurations that might ease budgeting for couples or longer-term stays. Finally, assess the responsiveness and pace of the caregiving staff - whether there is ample time for individual conversations, routine check-ins, and how staff reactions feel during a typical day.
Compared with other options in the area, Heartwood House's standout strengths lie in its people and its livable, apartment-style environment, paired with tangible conveniences like transportation, banking services, and on-site dining. Those benefits often translate into a higher perceived value for residents who prize companionship, predictable routines, and a home-away-from-home feel. The major caveat remains cost, which can place it outside reach for some families, and the occasional floor-plan learning curve that can make initial weeks feel less intuitive. For families weighing "best fit," this combination of strong staff engagement and high-quality amenities can justify the investment - provided the budget allows and the layout is embraced rather than resisted.
The bottom line is candid: Heartwood House excels for seniors who want a warm, community-forward environment and can afford a price point that reflects comprehensive services and conveniences. Its pros - personalized staff attention, spacious apartment-like spaces, and a full slate of activities and services - thew into daily life with clarity, making the cons more manageable for the right resident. Those who need tighter budgets, simpler, more clinic-like settings, or a layout that is instantly intuitive may want to explore alternatives. For decision-makers evaluating this community, prioritize a tour with live navigation checks, a trial of dining, a candid budget discussion, and an honest read of how well the staff tempo aligns with the resident's preferred pace and social engagement.
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.
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 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.
Respite or short term stays offeredRespite or short term stays provide seniors with a temporary solution when their regular caregiver is unavailable, offering them the opportunity to receive additional care and support during times of need, while also giving caregivers a chance to rest and recharge.
Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.
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.
Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.
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.
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 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.Heartwood House is an assisted living community located in Ames, IA that offers a range of amenities and services to provide a comfortable and supportive environment for its residents. The community features indoor and outdoor common areas where residents can socialize and engage in activities with fellow residents.
Devotional services are available on-site for those who wish to practice their faith within the community. Additionally, respite or short term stays are offered for individuals who require temporary care or assistance.
Heartwood House is equipped with wheelchair accessible showers to ensure the safety and convenience of all residents. The staff at Heartwood House also provides incontinence care and medication management services to meet the specific needs of each resident.
Residents can partake in devotional activities on-site, offering a sense of spiritual fulfillment within the community.
In terms of location, Heartwood House benefits from being surrounded by various amenities nearby. There are 13 cafes, 9 parks, 10 pharmacies, 20 physicians, 34 restaurants, 2 transportation options, 8 places of worship, 1 theater, and 3 hospitals in close proximity to the community. This allows residents easy access to a variety of services and entertainment options.
Overall, Heartwood House strives to offer a warm and caring environment where seniors can receive the assistance they need while maintaining their independence and enjoying an engaging lifestyle.
This area of Ames, Iowa offers a variety of amenities and services that may be attractive to seniors. There are several places of worship within close proximity, providing opportunities for spiritual enrichment. In terms of dining options, there are a number of restaurants offering various cuisines to suit different preferences. The parks nearby allow for outdoor recreation and relaxation, while the presence of pharmacies and physicians indicates convenient access to healthcare services. Additionally, the cafes provide spaces for socializing and enjoying a cup of coffee. For medical needs, there are hospitals in the vicinity as well as transportation services for convenience. Overall, this area provides a mix of resources that cater to the needs and interests of seniors looking to settle in Ames.
Heartwood House offers its studio accommodations at a monthly rate of $8,190, which positions it as a premium option compared to the general costs observed in both Story County and the broader state of Iowa. In comparison, the average monthly cost for similar studio living arrangements in Story County is approximately $5,271, while across Iowa, it averages around $3,613. This indicates that Heartwood House provides a higher-end experience that likely includes additional services or amenities not typically available in more standard facilities. Prospective residents should weigh these costs against the potential benefits and unique offerings that Heartwood House may provide to determine if it aligns with their needs and expectations.
Heartwood House is located at 1801 20th Street, Ames, IA 50010 in Story County, Iowa
Heartwood House's medication management ensures that residents receive their prescribed medications at the correct times and dosages, which is crucial for maintaining their cognitive function and overall health. This structured approach not only reduces the risk of medication errors but also alleviates stress and confusion often experienced by individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's, enabling them to focus on their daily activities. Incontinence care further enhances the quality of life for residents by providing dignity and comfort through personalized support, minimizing anxiety related to incontinence issues. This holistic attention to both medical and personal needs fosters a secure environment where residents can thrive emotionally and mentally.
Heartwood House on seniors.fyi includes 5 photos including images showing waiting area, fireplace, decor, garden, gazebo, pathway, outdoor, landscaping, and more.
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