Karen Acres Care Center in Urbandale, IA
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Information last verified:
3605 Elm Drive, Urbandale, IA 50322
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The staff at Karen Acres are amazing, caring, and very helpful. Ethan is great with the residents, taking time to talk with them and their families, and accommodating food requests. The therapists do a fantastic job and truly get to know their patients. The staff are caring people who create a warm, family-like environment. Pam the administrator cares and takes care of residents' needs, allowing families to focus on their loved ones. Karen Acres feels like family, with staff who go above and beyond. The facility provides excellent care that exceeds expectations. The small, home-like setting allows for individualized, person-centered care. The building is clean, well maintained, and easy to navigate for residents, including those in chairs.
They described the facility as the worst place on planet Earth and would never put anyone there. They stated the nurses were rude and condescending. They claimed the facility needs to be remodeled and updated. They said the DON was rude on the phone, refused to let them speak, and hung up. They described their mother as miserable and said staff did not make her stay comfortable. They noted the building wasn’t as fancy as the last place, implying lower quality.Karen Acres Care Center in Urbandale is best suited for families seeking a small, home‑like nursing environment where residents are known as individuals and care is delivered with noticeable warmth. The facility shines for short‑term rehab and for long‑term stays where personalized attention and a family atmosphere matter most. Reviewers repeatedly describe a setting that feels less like an institution and more like a close-knit community, with therapists who take time to understand each patient and a staff culture that volunteers extra effort to keep residents engaged, comfortable, and well nourished. Cleanliness, easy navigation, and a pace that supports meaningful interaction reinforce this fit.
Those who may want to consider alternatives are families prioritizing a larger campus, broader clinical depth, or a more corporate, highly standardized experience may find Karen Acres lacking in certain assets. While the smaller scale supports individualized care, it can also translate into limited capacity for specialized services, fewer on‑site amenities, and less overall polish than bigger facilities. A handful of reviews flag experiences with staff or administration that feel abrupt or discourteous, and concerns about modernization or equipment suggest that the landmark desire for a sleek, up‑to‑date environment isn’t fully met here. In short, this is not the right fit for families needing a highly broad, hospital‑grade operation.
The strongest positives circle around the people who work here. Caregivers are described as consistently kind, attentive, and willing to accommodate individual needs, whether it’s a resident’s daily routines, dietary preferences, or meaningful conversations that help families feel reassured. The therapy team earns particular praise for getting to know patients, tailoring rehab plans, and moving recovery forward, which matters deeply for post‑hospital rehabilitation. Administrators and frontline staff are cited as accessible and supportive, with anecdotes about staff treating families with respect and “like a part of the family.” The home‑like environment, combined with clean, orderly common areas and deliberately small size, underpins strong resident satisfaction.
Yet, the reviews do not erase the existence of friction points. A minority report encounters with nurses who come across as rude or dismissive, and at least one account describes a negative interaction with a department head that left a family member feeling unheard. A thread of concern about communication gaps or uneven experiences across shifts appears in several observations, and there is mention of remodeling needs and older infrastructure in comparison with more modern facilities. Staffing turnover is also cited by some reviewers, which can translate into variability in daily routines and consistency. These voices are real and important for families weighing stability against a consistently polished environment.
Against the cautionary notes, the balance remains favorable for many families seeking value in a small, dedicated setting. The core advantages, personalized attention, strong rehab outcomes, and a culture of care, often offset the less glamorous aspects of being a smaller operation. When the administrator (noted by multiple reviewers as attentive and responsive) actively addresses concerns and keeps families informed, the experience can feel almost seamless, turning a visit into confidence that a loved one will be treated with dignity and respect. The “home away from home” quality is not a marketing phrase here; it is a lived perception for residents and families who prioritize human connection over slick surfaces.
For families making a decision, Karen Acres should be viewed as a practical choice for those who want a low‑noise, high‑touch environment where staff know residents well and rehab is handled with genuine attention. It is less appropriate for those who require expansive medical amenities, a highly standardized clinical workflow, or frequent interactions with a broad array of specialists. Prospective residents should visit with specific questions about room configurations (including shared arrangements during rehab), daily activity schedules, and how dietary requests are handled. Meet with the administrator and several frontline staff to gauge consistency of communication, then compare to alternatives that offer larger campuses or more contemporary facilities. In the right circumstances, Karen Acres is a sound, compassionate option worth choosing for the right family.
38 resident community capacity
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.
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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 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 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 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 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.
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 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.
Des Moines International (7 miles away)
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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. 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 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. 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 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 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.Karen Acres Care Center in Urbandale, IA is a welcoming assisted living community that offers a comfortable and convenient lifestyle for its residents. With a range of amenities and care services provided, it ensures that seniors can enjoy their golden years with ease and peace of mind.
The community offers fully furnished accommodations, complete with cable or satellite TV and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access. Residents can relax in the beautiful outdoor spaces or enjoy the small library for some quiet reading time. The dining room provides restaurant-style dining where delicious meals are prepared and served to meet special dietary restrictions.
At Karen Acres Care Center, seniors receive 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The dedicated staff also provides medication management to ensure the well-being of each resident. Additionally, there is a mental wellness program in place to support residents' emotional health.
Residents can engage in resident-run activities and participate in scheduled daily activities to stay active and socialize with their peers. The community is conveniently located near various amenities including cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals.
Karen Acres Care Center strives to create an inclusive environment where seniors can thrive while receiving personalized care tailored to their needs. With its comprehensive amenities and services combined with the convenience of nearby facilities, it is an excellent choice for assisted living in Urbandale, IA.
Karen Acres Care Center is located at 3605 Elm Drive, Urbandale, IA 50322 in Polk County, Iowa
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