For anyone who has driven near (or on) the Pleasantview campus in the past year, changes have obviously taken place, with more yet to come.

Built in 1957 with the first resident moving in the following year, the goal was to provide quality care to the elderly men and women of the Kalona community. That goal has not changed in the ensuing 65 years!

Major additions occurred in 1964, 1972, the early 1990’s, and the early 2000’s…not merely adding bricks and mortar, but also programming. While many of the changes were growth-driven, state and federal regulations also played a role.

Today Pleasantview is responding yet again to the needs and trends of senior care.

What began as general day-to-day care as residents aged has progressed to include independent living, assisted living, long-term care, skilled care, and memory care – or the full continuum of care, all on the same campus.

Pleasantview has excelled in several of the listed above: namely independent living, long-term care, and skilled care. And despite lacking in assisted living and memory care, the organization has maintained 5-star status on a consistent basis. It has thrived in its efforts to establish a culture that includes quality, integrity, community, and kindness. Yet challenges remain.

There are visible signs of growth and addressing needs: the new Friendship/Community Center, ultimately, albeit indirectly, built as a result of strengthening skilled care. (The renovation of existing space into a therapy center necessitates the relocation of the current Friendship Center.) 

New construction is also a visible sign of growth, including a 16-bed Memory Care Unit to cater to the needs of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. A maintenance garage – also newly constructed – has popped up as well. Both structures are on the north side of campus.

Not fully visible, yet equally important, is the renovation of the 1957 structure into 28 assisted living apartments. Spanning two levels, this living option provides a link between independent living and full nursing care, enabling the full continuum of care on the same campus. The apartments range in size from 410-680 square feet…some studios, some 1-bedroom.

Back to skilled care: 6 Medicare suites will be constructed adjacent to the therapy space. This will allow those at Pleasantview for post-acute care to take full advantage of the therapy services.

More changes inside will be made over the next 12-15 months, including a bistro, revamped lobby area, relocated commercial kitchen and dining space, and more.

All said and done, come late 2024, Pleasantview’s Vision Statement will become evident: “Pleasantview will be the place of choice to live and work.”

It is exciting to be a part of the growth, and community members are invited to contact Pleasantview for more information. Openings in each area of care exist, and there will be a grand opening to celebrate the improvements at the appropriate time.

Remember that Pleasantview is “a welcoming faith-based community the supports healthy living and quality of life.” Come see ‘community’ in action!