UnityPoint Health and Western Home Services to build new memory care community

UnityPoint Health-Cedar Rapids and Western Home Services in Cedar Falls, are partnering to build a new, memory care community in northeast Cedar Rapids that deploys a specialized care model called the “household model of care.”

According to a release, this new facility will offer those with memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, a secure, home-like setting with personalized care plans to improve quality of life through clinical care, cognitive engagement and daily living activities.

In addition, the new “household model of care” creates a real community within a space so individuals recognize their surroundings as home. This includes personal choice, and natural rhythms of the day to ensure a state of well-being. The project includes three memory/dementia care cottages with 16/20 units each and all individuals will have their own personal bedroom and bathroom providing safeguards for infection control.

Western Home Communities owns and operates senior living communities around Iowa, has a flagship campus in Cedar Falls where the Cottage model originated. The Cottage design won “Design Innovation of the Year” at the International Dementia Conference in Birmingham, UK in 2015.

The proposed site, located at 8405 Council Street, NE, Cedar Rapids is adjacent to St. Luke’s Transitional Care Center, a short stay, a skilled nursing facility for those recovering from an injury, surgery or serious illness. The new facility will be named, The Cottages at UnityPoint Way.

“We are pleased to bring a specialized memory care alternative to our community,” said Michelle Niermann, president and CEO, UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids. “With an anticipated growth of 18.3 percent in the 65 plus age demographic in the Cedar Rapids area, this community will provide much-needed memory/dementia care housing and by partnering with Western Home Services, who is a leader in senior living communities, we are excited to bring a new level of memory/dementia care into our community.”

The estimated cost is $25 million. The proposed timeline includes breaking ground in fall 2021 with an anticipated opening of the community in late 2022.