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When a life counted in decades was penned for the sole purpose of nurturing the next generation and working to build a career, leaving it all behind to retire can feel scary.
But be that as it may, retirement is a journey to explore new opportunities and embrace a vibrant lifestyle. And no better place to start your new chapter than in the charming state of Iowa. This article delves into what seniors can expect from the Hawkeye State, including the top 10 retirement communities where their new journeys will begin.
What makes Hawkeye State so fascinating?
Iowa has always been a captivating destination for movie-set locations or just living out the golden years. With a rich tapestry of attractions and activities, let us see what makes Iowa so darn fascinating!
Cultural activities for seniors to enjoy
Iowa is culturally rich and offers a buffet of activities for seniors to enjoy during their retirement.
1. Festivals and fairs
Seniors can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Iowa by attending festivals like the Iowa State Fair, which highlights agricultural exhibits, live performances, and lip-smacking cuisine.
2. Historic sites
Those looking to retire in Iowa can delve into the state’s rich history by visiting landmarks like the Living History Farms, where they can experience life on an 1870s farm, or the Amana Colonies, a historic German community known for its craftsmanship and friendliness.
3. Arts and theater
Art buffs will enjoy the thriving arts scene with renowned theaters such as the Des Moines Performing Arts Center, which hosts shows like Broadway and other captivating performances. There are also local art galleries and theaters in different cities for seniors to look into.
4. Outdoor adventures
Iowa’s charming landscapes offer ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Seniors can take a scenic hike along the Maquoketa Caves State Park trails or set sail on a relaxing cruise on the Mississippi River.
5. Culinary pleasures
Iowa is prominent for its farm-fresh produce and delicious culinary offerings. Retirees can enjoy local delicacies and visit diverse dine-in options regardless of their city.
5 Major attractions in Iowa
Iowa is home to many enigmatic and charming reflections of the old country that defines the roots of America! Those who live in Iowa already know what to expect, but for those planning to retire here, here are the 5 major attractions you cannot miss!
1. Field of Dreams
Retirees have to visit the iconic Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville and immerse themselves in the nostalgia of this beloved baseball film.
2. Effigy Mounds National Monument
Those who love history can explore the ancient Native American burial mounds that charm the landscape, preserving the region’s cultural heritage.
3. Iowa State Capitol
The capital of Iowa is a grand sight to behold, especially the State Capitol building in Des Moines, with its stunning architecture and informative guided tours.
4. Bridges of Madison County
Which senior has not seen or loved this iconic movie? This location reflects the romantic charm of the covered bridges made famous by the novel and movie “The Bridges of Madison County.”
5. Iowa Great Lakes
Seniors can breathe in the beauty of the Iowa Great Lakes region, known for its glittering lakes, scenic trails, and opportunities for boating, fishing, and other engaging water sports!
Best places to live in Iowa for seniors 2024
Iowa’s cultural wealth, major attractions, and top retirement cities make it an exceptional state to embark on your retirement journey. Here are the top cities for retirement in Iowa!
1. Cedar Rapids
2. Des Moines
3. Davenport
4. Dubuque
5. Iowa City
6. Coralville
About the active retirement communities in Iowa
The retirement homes in Iowa cater to the assorted needs of older adults by offering various care types and facilities. Here are the typical options available:
1. Assisted living
Communities with assisted living facilities provide care and support for seniors who require assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, medication management, transportation, etc.
2. Independent living
Independent living communities are Ideal for active seniors who prefer the maintenance-free lifestyle in private residences. The facilities with independent living provide fitness centers, recreational activities, on-site dining, and social opportunities to nurture independence and an active lifestyle.
3. Memory care
Memory care facilities concentrate on caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. They offer a secure environment, structured routines, specialized activities, and trained staff to ensure the safety of their residents.
4. Nursing homes
These facilities provide 24/7 medical care and support for seniors with challenging medical needs or those recovering from surgery or illness. Nursing homes offer skilled nursing services, rehabilitation therapies, assistance with daily activities, and numerous relevant medical support.
5. Home care
Home care services offer a chance for older adults to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. Caregivers assist with personal care, medication reminders, household tasks, and companionship. Home care allows seniors to maintain independence while receiving essential support.
Irrespective of senior care type, seniors can ensure that the retirement communities coming up will offer unique activities like yoga, meditation, and more!
Top 10 retirement communities in Iowa
The retirement communities Iowa have to offer are nothing short of excellence! Believe it or not, the top 10 we have listed here will give you the compassionate care you need, and the sights of the communities will take your breath away.
So without further ado, let’s take a look at the best 55-plus communities in Iowa.
1. Garnett Place – Cedar Rapids
If you are looking for one of the top retirement communities in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, then you can go right with Garnett Place. This community offers a warm and inviting community for its residents. With a focus on assisted living, the community also provides other forms of senior care, such as independent living, memory care, and nursing home support.
2. Cottage Grove Place – Cedar Rapids
Cottage Grove Place can feel like you are spending your retirement in a vacation resort. The retirement community combines elegance and comfort in the heart of Cedar Rapids. This beautifully structured community provides various levels of care, including assisted living. Residents can also take part in various engaging programs to stay active and healthy!
3. Home Instead Senior Care – Cedar Rapids
Home Instead Senior Care is one of the top names for home care; Home Instead Senior Care is situated in Cedar Rapids and offers tailored in-home care services for older adults. Highly trained caregivers assist with daily activities, ensuring seniors can age in the comfort of their homes.
4. Rock Creek Senior Living – Ankeny
This place is one of the most beautifully structured retirement communities in Iowa. Rock Creek Senior Living in Ankeny offers a resort-like atmosphere with well-designed apartments and gorgeously landscaped grounds. The community features amenities such as a fitness center, a salon, and spacious common areas for socializing.
5. Prairie Hills At Des Moines – Des Moines
In Des Moines, Prairie Hills offers a peaceful setting focusing on assisted living, memory care, and nursing home care. The community features spacious accommodations, restaurant-style dining, and a variety of recreational programs all year around. Interestingly, you will be in complete awe when you see this retirement facility!
6. Rose Of Des Moines – Des Moines
No matter where you look, this place will always come as one of the top retirement communities in Des Moines, Iowa. Rose of Des Moines is a sight to see because this community opens its arms to seniors needing dedicated and specialized assisted living services. The premise’s well-structured layouts will give seniors a sense of familiarity and comfort.
7. Grand Living At Bridgewater – Coralville
Grand Living At Bridgewater in Coralville is a luxurious retirement community with a stunning architectural design. The community provides various services and amenities, including assisted living in an upscale and elegant setting. Grand Living at Bridgewater really puts the gold in golden years!
8. Oaknoll Al – Iowa City
Senior residents of Oaknoll Al can enjoy spacious apartments, wellness programs, and a great selection of amenities, all within a vibrant and engaging community. The community offers spacious apartments with various floor plans to suit their personal preferences.
9. Melrose Meadows Retirement Community – Iowa City
Melrose Meadows Retirement Community is a specialized assisted living facility care. Nestled in Iowa City, this community emphasizes wellness, social engagement, and compassionate care services for its residents.
10. Keystone Place At Forevergreen – North Liberty
This retirement community is as gorgeous as they come. Modern yet humble architecture with spacious apartments with upscale appearances, Keystone Place at Forevergreen provides its residents with a welcoming and compassionate environment. For those looking at assisted living, independent living, memory care, and nursing home services, Keystone Place at Forevergreen is ideal!
Is Iowa costly when it comes to retirement?
Iowa is astonishingly affordable when it comes to the golden years. As of present, the average cost of retirement in Iowa is close to the national average of retirement. Just see below!
Assisted living – $4,633
Nursing home (private room) – $7,906
Nursing home (semi-private room) – $7,293
In-home care (homemaker services) – $5,866
As for the top cities that seniors would lean toward when it comes to retirement, here is what to expect:
And if you are planning for retirement, why not read the following:
Final thoughts
With its heartwarming senior communities, stunning landscapes, and affordable cost of living, Iowa provides an idyllic backdrop for a vibrant retirement lifestyle. Whether you seek an active and engaging lifestyle or a serene retreat, you will find that Iowa has a retirement community that suits everyone!
So now all that is left to do is write the unwritten pages of your golden years and embrace the new chapter in your life, with the prospect of a remarkable journey to come!
And if you still need some convincing, read the following articles for comparison!
FAQs
Is Iowa a good state for retirees?
Iowa has a very homely vibe that retirees will no doubt fall in love with. What makes Iowa an ideal state for retirement is that the cost of livelihood (especially for retirees) is relatively lower than in surrounding states. There is always plenty to do and major attractions and activities to keep seniors busy and happy!
What is the best city in Iowa to retire in?
If you are searching for the best retirement communities in Iowa, depending on the city and affordability, then Davenport is the place to be. Whether nursing homes or assisted living, the cost of retirement is low, and seniors can take advantage of what the city and surroundings offer.
Is Iowa a cheap place to retire?
It is incredibly affordable to retire in Iowa. Iowa’s 55 and older communities offer everything from a homely atmosphere to compassionate care, irrespective of the type. Some of the biggest names in home care are also available in the Hawkeye State.
