Glen Oaks Alzheimer’s Special Care Center in Urbandale, IA is dedicated exclusively to memory care. Residents with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias receive 24-hour support within a secured community, and families can choose short-term respite stays when needed. Diabetes management is available, along with regular physician oversight and on-site speech therapy. All care is delivered by staff trained to address the challenges of cognitive decline while promoting safety and consistency.

The community provides a broad range of clinical services on site, reducing the need for outside appointments. Nurses handle medication management, incontinence care, and routine health monitoring, while occupational and physical therapists help residents maintain functional abilities. A podiatrist and dentist visit regularly, a massage therapist offers comfort measures, and hospice services can be arranged when appropriate. The environment itself is designed for way-finding and calm engagement, reinforcing the center’s focus as a memory-care-only setting.

Apartments and companion suites vary in size and layout, and not every unit includes every feature. Options may include wheelchair-accessible showers, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and individual climate control. Common areas feature a central fireplace, piano or organ, and multiple outdoor spaces, all of which are handicap accessible. Parking is available for visitors, and pets are welcome in designated residences if the resident is able to care for them.

Dining is overseen by a professional chef who prepares three daily meals with all-day dining flexibility. Menus accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, low-sodium, and no-sugar preferences, and guest meals can be arranged. Staff monitor nutritional intake and provide assistance when needed to ensure residents receive balanced meals suited to their medical requirements.

Residents have access to an activity center, library and computer lounge, indoor and outdoor walking paths, raised garden beds, and a swimming pool. Daily programming includes yoga or chair yoga, fitness classes, Montessori-based and sensory-focused sessions, reminiscence groups, intergenerational visits, karaoke, live music, dances, birthday celebrations, happy hours, and scheduled social outings. A jacuzzi offers therapeutic relaxation, and clubs and specialized communities encourage ongoing engagement and social connection.

Residents and their families say:

This community, dedicated to caring for individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia, receives high praise from many for its attentive and compassionate staff who go above and beyond in delivering care. Numerous reviewers note the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the range of activities designed to keep residents engaged and stimulated. The community features a user-friendly layout that allows residents the freedom to walk safely, adding to the home-like environment appreciated by many families. Individualized care is emphasized, with staff taking the time to understand each resident's personal preferences, contributing to a higher quality of life and peace of mind for families. Many reviews highlight the dedicated nursing and activity departments that enrich residents' daily experiences.

However, some reviewers mention areas in need of improvement, including the pricing of the services, which some families find to be on the higher side. There are also concerns about staff turnover and staffing levels, a common thread across similar facilities. Despite these issues, this community is often considered a good or even superior option compared to other local care facilities. The general sentiment reflects a strong appreciation for the personalized and community-oriented approach to care, which has significantly benefited many families' experiences.

This community also gains positive recognition for its integration of specific programs such as the Montessori-based SPARK program, which involves residents in daily life tasks, fostering a sense of purpose and community. Members of the therapy and nursing teams comment on the effective dementia training provided to staff, which benefits residents and families alike. While some families reported not being fully satisfied with the attention their loved ones received, many others shared praise for the facility's maintenance, social activities, and friendly, professional staff. The community’s commitment to creating a nurturing environment helps families feel secure that their loved ones are in good hands.

AI generated summary of real reviews