Heartwood House

Pros

• The care and support provided at Northcrest Community exemplify a true sense of community.
• The staff at Northcrest Community is described as loving, kind, and patient, making meaningful connections with residents.
• The rooms are spacious and pleasant, creating a comfortable living environment for residents.
• Visitors were impressed by the immaculate care center, which feels more like a home than a hospital.
• Northcrest offers a variety of activities, including games and reading groups, fostering engagement among residents.
• The dining area is noted to be lovely, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Many visitors appreciate the strong staff presence and the spacious apartments available for residents.
• Residents have access to transportation services for grocery shopping and banking needs, adding convenience to their lives.
• The communal atmosphere and comprehensive service offerings make Northcrest Community highly recommended by visitors.

Cons

• The visitor had a hard time understanding the floor plan and felt it would be difficult for their dad to navigate through the community.
• Concerns about affordability were expressed, indicating that the visitor did not think they could afford to stay at Northcrest Community.
• Although impressed with the cleanliness and ambiance, one review noted that they didn't eat in the dining area, which may imply reservations about the dining experience.
• While visits to friends were frequent, it suggests that there might be some emotional difficulty or sadness in seeing loved ones living in a care facility rather than at home.

Review

Northcrest Community has garnered a reputation as a nurturing and supportive environment, particularly for those transitioning from independent living into assisted care. Many families, including one individual who experienced the move of their parents from an apartment in North Carolina, have highlighted the sense of community that permeates the facility. The name "Northcrest Community" indeed reflects its essence, as residents and family members alike report feeling enveloped in genuine care during what can often be a challenging transition. This warmth is echoed throughout various experiences, showcasing that Northcrest not only fulfills its promises of assistance but also fosters meaningful relationships among staff and residents.

The exceptional care provided at Northcrest Community stands out prominently in several accounts. Visitors consistently describe the staff as loving, kind, and patient—qualities that make a significant difference in the day-to-day lives of residents. Staff members go beyond basic caregiving duties; they take the time to visit with residents in their rooms, creating opportunities for conversation that enriches their emotional well-being. Such personal touches contribute to creating an atmosphere where seniors feel valued and connected, rather than isolated or simply attended to.

Residents enjoy spacious accommodations designed to enhance comfort and privacy. One family recounted how their parents occupied two adjacent rooms—one as a bedroom and the other as a sitting area—creating an environment akin to an apartment lifestyle. This thoughtful arrangement allowed them more freedom of movement while maintaining companionship just across the hall. The overall layout of these units makes it easy for couples or friends living together to enjoy both social interaction and personal space.

Visiting potential residents might find navigating through Northcrest's layout occasionally confusing, though this is likely outweighed by the positive aspects noted during tours. One visitor mentioned attending without an appointment yet receiving a detailed look at what the community had to offer; this shows that staff are accommodating and eager to share their home with prospective new residents. However, some challenges could arise from navigating floor plans that may confuse certain individuals—suggesting that clearer signage or orientation guidance could further improve visitors’ experiences.

The facilities themselves were universally praised for cleanliness and ambiance—it was described as immaculate rather than resembling a traditional hospital setting. With wide hallways fostering easy movement, visitors noted how inviting it felt within Northcrest's walls. Social activities abound: from games and reading groups to coffee gatherings—these elements provide ample opportunities for engagement among residents. While some expressed concerns about affordability, many recognized Northcrest's amenities—including fitness facilities and laundry services—as attractive offerings that enhance quality of life.

Familiarity breeds comfort—the local community frequently visits Northcrest, establishing friendships with many residents over time. Those who have been there often note strong camaraderie amongst both staff and residents alike; shared meals in a well-planned dining area encourage socialization while ensuring good nutrition through appealing menus. Residents can partake in arts or athletic programs supported by transport services facilitating excursions for shopping or banking needs—a testament to Northcrest’s commitment not just to physical well-being but also fostering active lifestyles.

Overall, based on numerous testimonials highlighting its community-oriented spirit alongside high-quality healthcare options, it becomes evident why so many would recommend Northcrest Community warmly. It stands out as not merely a facility but rather a vibrant home where individuals can thrive amidst caring support while enjoying various enriching activities tailored specifically for seniors' needs.

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.

Places of Worship

• Nevada IA Seventh-Day Adventist Church (0.2 miles)
• Bethesda Lutheran Church ELCA (0.5 miles)
• Southern Baptist Convention (0.8 miles)
• St Paul Lutheran Church (0.9 miles)
• Mosque (1.4 miles)
• Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ames (1.4 miles)
• Memorial Lutheran Church (1.5 miles)

Restaurants

• The Cafe (0.6 miles)
• Fazoli's (0.7 miles)
• House Of Chen (0.7 miles)
• El Azteca (0.8 miles)
• Los Altos Mexican Restaurant (1 miles)
• Aunt Maude's (1.4 miles)
• Culver's (1.5 miles)

Parks

• Ada Hayden Heritage Park (0.7 miles)
• Moore Memorial Park (0.9 miles)
• Brookside Park (0.9 miles)
• Lloyd Kurtz Park (1.1 miles)
• Inis Grove Park (1.1 miles)
• O'Neil Park (1.7 miles)
• Bandshell Park (1.7 miles)

Pharmacies

• Somerset Pharmacy (0.7 miles)
• NuCara Pharmacy (0.7 miles)
• Walgreens (0.8 miles)
• Walmart Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
• Nucara Pharmacy (0.9 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
• Medicap Pharmacy (1.8 miles)

Physicians

• McFarland Clinic PC (0.7 miles)
• Whylie Eye Care Centers (1 miles)
• Eye Works (1.1 miles)
• Family Medicine North (1.2 miles)
• McFarland Clinic PC (1.3 miles)
• Strosahl, Kasey Dr - Mary Greeley Medical Center Psychiatry (1.3 miles)
• William R Bliss Cancer Center (1.3 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (0.9 miles)
• The Hub Grill & Café (1.3 miles)
• Design Café (1.4 miles)
• Starbucks (1.5 miles)
• Cafe Diem (1.6 miles)
• Cafe Beaudelaire (1.6 miles)
• Starbucks (1.7 miles)

Hospitals

• Hearing Services of Iowa (0.9 miles)
• Mary Greeley Medical Center (1.3 miles)
• DaVita Ames Mary Greeley Dialysis (2.7 miles)

Transportation

• U-Haul Neighborhood Dealer (1.6 miles)
• U-Haul Moving & Storage (2.3 miles)

Theaters

• Cinemark Movies 12 (2.4 miles)