Sept. 3, 2024 (WAUKEE) – Optimae LifeServices has opened its second Intensive Residential Service Home (IRSH) in Waukee. The program’s expansion comes two months after the program’s launch, with Optimae’s first IRSH opening in Ames in June 2024.
The IRSH opening in Dallas County is a collaboration between Optimae and the Heart of Iowa Community Services (HICS) Mental Health and Disability Services Region.
“Heart of Iowa is pleased to support the development of the Intensive Residential Service Home in our region, managed by our esteemed partner, Optimae Life Services,” said Darci Alt, chief executive officer of HICS. “We look forward to continued partnership in the future.”
Per the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, “Intensive Residential Services are intended to serve adults with the most severe and persistent mental health conditions who have functional impairments and may also have multi-occurring conditions. This service provides intensive 24-hour supervision, behavioral health services, and other supportive services in a community-based residential setting.”
As with all IRSH sites, Optimae’s home in Waukee is located in a neighborhood within the community to maximize community integration and natural supports. Community Services staff members will work in close partnership with Optimae’s Behavioral Health, Home Health and Rehabilitation Services (Occupational Therapy) teams to deliver comprehensive services and a holistic approach to customers’ health care.
“It is with great pleasure we announce the opening of our second IRSH home in Waukee, Iowa, in partnership with the Heart of Iowa MHDS Region,” said Meghan Foster, Optimae’s chief operating officer for central Iowa. “Optimae continues to work to fulfill our initiative to expand the Intensive Residential Service Home program, and the opening of the second home is a strong indicator that we are heading in the right direction.”
Optimae anticipates its third IRSH opening in November 2024, serving Polk County residents in Ankeny.
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