At Wesley Retirement Services, we see our story as one of continuing service to Iowa’s seniors — where you are our priority. From its beginnings in the mid-1940s to this very day, Wesley strives to ensure that every senior has the opportunity of living the most active and vital lifestyle possible. We are reinventing senior care options. Thousands of seniors live fuller, richer lives in their retirement years thanks to innovative thinking and planning by Wesley Retirement Services. That’s why Wesley is truly the senior health and lifestyle expert.
In the Beginning
In 1946, the South Iowa Methodist Church Conference approved a plan to provide a retirement home for aging ministers. Six months later, Wesley Acres was founded when the Chamberlain Estate, located in the heart of Des Moines at 3520 Grand Avenue, was purchased. For many years, the mansion also served as headquarters for the Methodist Church.
The grand Chamberlain mansion remains today, nestled in the heart of the sprawling 14-acre landscape of Wesley Acres. Designed by noted architect William George Ratoul, it is the oldest example of Tudor-Jacobean 17th Century English architecture in Des Moines and is noted on the National Historic Register.
Built in 1900 for Davis Sidney Chamberlain, the family lived in the mansion filled with red oak paneling, five fireplaces, brass and silver-plated light fixtures and window panes made from imported French bottle glass. The home was restored in 1986 and housed Wesley Retirement Services corporate offices until 2002, when it relocated to Johnston, Iowa. Since that time, the five bedrooms are used as a guest house at Wesley Acres, where friends and family stay on visits.
Today’s Retirement Communities
From Wesley Acres’ original five residents, we currently serve more than 1,000 resident seniors in five retirement communities throughout Iowa. Each has its own neighborhood identity, sharing the values of the community it serves.
• 1947 — Wesley Acres was established as a faith-based, non-profit ministry. Today, this Des Moines location provides independent and assisted living in a variety of apartment settings. The complex also houses a healthy living center, skilled services and a memory loss unit. It is truly a grand way of living for all seniors.
• 1960 — Wesley Halcyon House, located in Washington, was added to Wesley Retirement Services. It is a location filled with charm and residents who are served through a full continuum of health care options. There are independent living townhomes, both independent and assisted living apartments and a complete health center.
• 1962 — Wesley Heritage House, situated in the heart of Atlantic, was constructed to meet the needs of area residents. Today, it features several buildings housing both independent and assisted living residents in beautiful apartments. There is also a wing dedicated to helpful living and a health center for long-term care. The highlight of Wesley Heritage House is its feeling of warmth and home.
• 1991 — Wesley The Village was constructed in Indianola in a primaryly residential area. It features townhomes nestled in a neighborhood setting, independent and assisted living apartments in two buildings joined by an enclosed walkway, as well as a health center and newly opened memory unit. Its location provides for lush green space and surrounding community activities.
• 1992 — Wesley Park Centre, located just a couple of blocks from the heart of downtown Newton, provides beautiful townhomes as well as both independent and assisted living apartments. There is also helpful living, dementia and memory care and a full health center. Wesley Park Centre is also home to Willowbrook Adult Day Services, Wesley’s second day center for seniors.
Governed by a board of directors comprised of representatives from each community, Wesley serves each location individually. Advisory councils incorporate board members as well as community members in the decision-making process. With deep ties to the founding principals, Wesley Retirement Services today is an independent 501(C)(3) organization, unrelated to the Methodist conference.
Senior Services, Programs
Today’s seniors have more options than ever as they determine the path of their retirement years. Many are choosing to remain at home. Wesley understands that decision and provides options that assist in making that choice a viable one. We serve hundreds of seniors through programs, plans and services. From assistance with daily tasks to respite care for full-time caregivers, Wesley Retirement Services is there to support you.
• Wesley at Home — Serving residents in Polk, Story, Dallas, Boone and Warren counties for more than 60 years, Wesley at Home provides home health aides and home companions as well as nursing and therapy services. This care allows residents to remin in their homes, enjoying an active and rewarding lifestyle.
• Adult Day Services — There are currently two adult day service centers, one located on the campus of Wesley Acres in Des Moines and the other at Wesley Park Centre in Newton. Both provide an outstanding array of activities for participants. Caregivers enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved one is cared for in an active, fullfilling and rewarding setting as they go about their day’s activities.
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