Living Center West in Cedar Rapids, IA

1050 4Th Avenue Se, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403

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

3.5 from 2 reviews
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    Overall Review of Living Center West

    Pros

    • pro The staff are often very helpful.
    • pro The family member is glad her stay is short term.
    • pro The service at St Luke's Living Center is awesome.
    • pro The facility is very clean.
    • pro The staff are very professional, and the resident is well cared for.
    • pro They would recommend it to others.

    Cons

    • pro They spent their visit dealing with administrative issues, which they found very frustrating.
    • pro They were told there would be phones in the room upon admittance, but there was no phone.
    • pro They were told they needed to set it up with the phone company at an additional expense.
    • pro They experienced constant issues with the laundry, including lost clothing items.
    • pro The resident is ignored when they state concerns about meds, laundry issues, PT, and other matters.
    • pro While staff are often helpful, there are ongoing issues with follow-through to actually tackle problems.

    Review

    Living Center West in Cedar Rapids is best suited for families navigating a short-term or transitional placement where the primary need is a clean, orderly environment with generally helpful staff and a predictable daily routine. It serves well for seniors whose medical needs are not overly complex and who can tolerate occasional administrative friction. The key caveat is that the operational side - phone setup, laundry logistics, and timely follow-through on concerns - has shown gaps. In this setting, the resident's satisfaction tends to hinge on the family's willingness to stay engaged with the back office and to advocate for timely issue resolution rather than on flawless day-to-day management.

    Those who rely on consistent, proactive coordination around medications, communications, and routine services should consider alternatives. The lingering gaps in getting a room phone functional, ongoing laundry losses, and variable problem resolution suggest a facility that may struggle with reliable back-office execution. In a market where St Luke's Living Center demonstrates a cleaner, more professional standard of care in the surrounding area, Living Center West's operational inconsistency becomes more noticeable for families seeking reliability as a non-negotiable criterion.

    From the flip side, there are threads of positivity amid the concerns. Staff can be very helpful, and residents periodically benefit from attentive aides and nursing when issues are raised. The rating signals mid-range overall, reflecting both the willingness of staff to assist and the reality that follow-through can falter. The resident who described the stay as short-term expressed relief about having options, which signals the facility works if a plan is short and expectations are clearly managed. Yet the absence of consistent resolution undermines the value of those helpful moments.

    Key deficiencies - phone access that is promised but not delivered, clothing lost in laundry, and med/LTC coordination gaps - present material risk for meaningful daily peace of mind. For families dealing with medications, PT, and other clinical touchpoints, the inconsistency can translate into real stress and potential safety concerns. While some staff may step in, the lack of a reliable escalation path means concerns can linger, diminishing trust during a vulnerable period. In practical terms, the facility may work best when there is a dedicated family liaison who can keep the care team honest and a quick trigger for corrective action.

    Practical steps for families evaluating Living Center West begin before move-in and continue after. Request a dedicated point person for care coordination, insist on a functioning in-room phone or a clear alternative, and verify that laundry rules and lost-item procedures are documented. Schedule a formal care conference within the first week to align on med schedules, PT appointments, and daily routines. If the facility cannot guarantee consistent follow-up, strongly weigh options that have demonstrated reliability in paperwork and service delivery to avoid a disrupted transition.

    Bottom line: Living Center West can work for a resident who prioritizes environment and social routine over flawless administration, especially for a short stay where expectations are clearly managed and the family is ready to monitor operations closely. For anyone whose decision hinges on dependable medical coordination, dependable communications, and guaranteed back-office performance, alternatives should be pursued. The right move is to tour with a checklist in hand, press for clarity on the two most critical gaps - phones/laundry/med coordination - and choose based on whether the staff can become consistently reliable rather than occasionally helpful.

    Features

    Housing

    • 100 resident community capacity 100 resident community capacity

    Types of Care

    • 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

    • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
    • 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.
    • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
    • 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.
    • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
    • 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.
    • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
    • 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.
    • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
    • 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.
    • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
    • 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 (7 miles away) Eastern Iowa (7 miles away)
    • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
    • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
    • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.
    • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.

    Care Services

    • 12-16 hour nursing 12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
    • 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.
    • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
    • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
    • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
    • 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

    Living Center West in Cedar Rapids, IA is a vibrant assisted living community that offers a variety of amenities to enhance the residents' quality of life. The community features a beauty salon where residents can pamper themselves and a fully furnished gaming room for entertainment. Residents can also enjoy the outdoors in the beautiful garden or outdoor space.

    For convenience, Living Center West offers community-operated transportation and transportation arrangement services for non-medical needs, such as shopping or social outings. Additionally, the community provides move-in coordination services to make the transition into assisted living seamless.

    Living Center West prioritizes the comfort and well-being of its residents by offering private bathrooms in each unit and housekeeping services. The dining experience at this community is exceptional, with restaurant-style dining and special dietary restrictions accommodated.

    The care services provided by Living Center West ensure that residents receive the assistance they need while maintaining their independence. With 24-hour call systems and supervision, help is always available. Trained staff members are on hand to assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management and assistance with diabetes diet are also provided.

    The mental wellness program at Living Center West promotes emotional well-being among residents. Various activities are organized throughout the day to engage residents socially and physically. Fitness programs are offered to support residents' overall health, while planned day trips provide opportunities for exploration beyond the community.

    Living Center West benefits from its convenient location near various amenities. Residents have access to two cafes, three parks, 12 pharmacies, 47 physicians, 27 restaurants, three places of worship, and six hospitals nearby.

    Overall, Living Center West provides a warm and inviting environment where residents can enjoy an active lifestyle supported by comprehensive care services and an array of amenities.

    Videos

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Physicians

    • Robert John Barry (0.1 miles)
    • Family Practice Associates (0.1 miles)
    • St Luke's Physicians & Clinics (0.1 miles)
    • Affiliates Of Family Practice Of Cedar Rapids PC (0.1 miles)
    • Andreas Kyvernitakis, MD (0.1 miles)
    • Uicom Cr Peds Clinic (0.1 miles)
    • Envisions Medical Spa (0.1 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • Medical Pharmacy (0.1 miles)
    • CarePro Home Medical (0.1 miles)
    • Aim Healthcare (0.5 miles)
    • Jrs Pharma (1 miles)
    • Hy-Vee Drugstore (1.3 miles)
    • CVS Pharmacy (1.5 miles)
    • Walgreens (2 miles)

    Hospitals

    • Mercy Medical Center (0.3 miles)
    • Mercy Birthplace (0.3 miles)
    • UnityPoint | St Lukes Cedar Rapids (0.3 miles)
    • St Luke's Hospital 5C (0.3 miles)
    • Mercy Medical Center (1.7 miles)
    • Southwest Regional Medical Center (1.8 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Midtown Station (0.3 miles)
    • Wendy's (0.3 miles)
    • Taco Bell (0.4 miles)
    • Pub 217 (0.6 miles)
    • Iowa Brewing Company L (0.6 miles)
    • Black Sheep Social Club (0.7 miles)
    • Chrome Horse Saloon (0.9 miles)

    Cafes

    • Starbucks (0.3 miles)
    • Craft’d (0.7 miles)

    Parks

    • Greene Square Park (0.5 miles)
    • Van Vechten Park (1.5 miles)
    • Sac and Fox Trail City Park (3.3 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Temple Judah (1.8 miles)
    • Central Church of Christ (2 miles)
    • Good Shepherd Lutheran Parsonage (3.1 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Living Center West?

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