Elm Crest Senior Living Community sits at 2104 12th Street in Harlan, IA, where it's served seniors and families in Harlan and the surrounding area for over 65 years, and folks know it for its warm atmosphere and long history of care, and with American Baptist Homes of the Midwest owning and running it as a not-for-profit, there's a focus on dependable support and real community. You'll find different living options here, whether someone wants an independent apartment, needs assisted living, seeks memory care, or needs nursing or rehab care, and these include Cottage Apartments, Lakeview Landing, Meadow Glen Terrace, and places for seniors who like privacy but also want common dining rooms with round tables, inviting living rooms with comfortable seating and soft lighting, fully equipped kitchens, and sometimes even private balconies to enjoy the outdoors. Elm Crest keeps things lively with a variety of activities that include movie nights, resident-run programs, music, and something-going-on most days, plus there's a resident and family council so any concerns get heard and improvements can be discussed.
You'll see a library, walking paths near Pioneer Walking Park, a game room, a business room, a barber and salon, fitness and wellness areas, a garden, and a chapel or meeting room with plenty of light and simple seating for gatherings or reflection, and each apartment for independent residents keeps things practical with open-concept layouts and modern appliances. When someone needs help, staff provide personalized care with support for activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, and medicines, and there's a 24-hour emergency call system with supervision for safety at all times. Medical care ranks above average for the area, and there's a certified nursing home with beds and rehab services on site for people coming back from surgery or illness, plus a memory care community for folks with memory troubles. Elm Crest works as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), so seniors can move between levels of care as their needs change, and there's help through home health and adult day care services for those who need it.
Dining spaces let everyone share meals, and volunteer opportunities bring folks together, giving family and friends a way to stay involved, while decision guides and resources help people figure out the best living situation. Residents' voices appear in testimonials, and there's always a community calendar, floor plans to review, and a video tour if someone wants to see the place from home. Staff keep the health center, rehab therapy, and supportive services ready, and amenities aim to fit people's routines, whether they're using the spa room, gardening, or just walking outside. The facility is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday and runs all day and night on weekends. Elm Crest wants to make life easier and more comfortable for people who live there, and it keeps close ties with Harlan and neighboring communities.