This is a question we hear a lot at Maple Crest. The answer is: It depends on what “that” is… Is it an Assisted Living, Home Care, Nursing Home Care or Hospice?

Your loved may be ready for assisted living if they are ready to downsize and would like to have fewer chores.  The loss of their spouse may determine the need for change with options to have life enrichment and social activities available.  They also may find their friends have moved to a really nice community and they would like to be close to them.  Your loved one may need assistance with daily activities and personal cares which could help determine the need for Assisted Living or Nursing Home care.  In Assisted Living, assistance is...

 Many myths, or misconceptions, persist about nursing facility life. In the past decade, nursing facilities, like all areas of health care, have changed dramatically in terms of staffing, policies, procedures, and general approach to the needs of their patients. It is our goal to provide both quality care and quality of life in a safe and secure environment.  A primary goal of Maple Crest Manor’s staff is to rehabilitate residents so that they can return home or to an assisted living setting. Those who cannot return home permanently may be able to make short visits, health permitting. In no way is anyone "stuck" in the nursing home.  Our life enrichment programs also focus on outings during all seasons!&...

 Tenants living at The Maples Assisted Living are living – and living well!  Each of them are enjoying full, rich lives that includes, but not limited to parties, card clubs, movie nights, and volunteering. We know active older adults choose to live in assisted livings, but they are not choosing to leave their lives behind.  Tenants will find a brand new social life!  The Maples also hosts picnics, social mixers, wine tasting, trips to casinos, attending college sporting events, and we always encourage our tenants to get out and move. To find out exactly what is offered at the Maples Assisted Living for you or your loved one, scheduled a tour today and talk to the tenants and ask about social activities.&...

 According to MetLife, the national cost for assisted living is about $3100 a month.  What is included in this price is what is key and can be very overwhelming.  Many assisted livings offer bundle packets where services may be included however, make sure you know exactly what you are getting as some assisted livings only include 2 meals and may charge extra for emergency pendant usage, etc.  As you review all your options, please keep in mind, every Assisted Living in the State of Iowa can provide the same services as we function under the same regulations.  However, the best Assisted Livings stand out based on the extra amenities, choices offered, life enrichment activities, and wonderful personnel to provide ...

 When it comes to paying for assisted living, not all seniors are able to afford private insurance. But when an individual cannot safely stay in their home and does not need all of the full care services offered by a skilled nursing facility, their choices can seem very limited.   Low income individuals may qualify for Medicaid, which can in theory pay for some services offered by an Assisted Living Community.  Medicaid will not cover non-medical or personal care costs of assisted living. This means that a personal care aide’s services would be covered, while utility bills would not. Dispensing of medication would be covered, but the rent for the room or apartment would not be covered. Both Medicare and Medicaid...

Many people find the term "Skilled Care" confusing in relation to nursing home care. I will try to explain it in layman terms.
 

Medicare Certified Skilled Care, often referred to as skilled nursing care, is a level of care that requires the direction of a physician and 24-hour management by a nurse and other skilled personnel. It is designed to be a short-term stay option that aids in your rehabilitation after surgery and/or illness.One must meet guidelines established by Medicare/Medicaid to qualify for Skilled Care. If you meet the guidelines, the cost of your care and rehabilitation can be covered under Medicare.Our medical team of physicians, nurses and rehabilitation specialists are pleased to provide you the ...

Many people ask me "What should I be looking for when we are shopping for nursing home placement for our parents?" The following Best Questions have been adapted from AARP’s warning signs for bad nursing homes.
 

1.  Are there strong odors, particularly of urine or heavy disinfectant as a cover- up? 

2. How clean is the facility? (Ask to see an occupied resident’s room to judge janitorial care.) 

3.  Do you see the use of restraints, such as chair, bed, or wheelchair straps or vests, or bruises, welts, or cuts on the residents? 

4. Are residents’ needs for privacy treated with respect, such as undressing them in private? 

5.  Does the...

I often get asked what the benefits are having an Assisted Living connected to a Nursing Home verses being a stand alone Assisted Living. I hope I can answer some questions with the following: