Independent Living Communities in Tennesee

Independent living communities in Tennessee are great places for older adults that are still able to carry out their normal routine but who enjoy the added benefit of receiving care as needed. This senior care type supports unique lifestyles in communities devoted to social enrichment, support, and overall well-being. Although each location varies, seniors are sure to find a range of amenities and opportunities for recreation. Whether it's a studio apartment, a small cottage and anything in between, it's easy to see why Tennessee independent living is quickly becoming one of the most popular long-term care options for seniors.

Find INDEPENDENT LIVING Facilities In TENNESSEE

Find Senior Caring Options by County

Cost Comparison of Tennessee Independent Living

City Monthly Minimum Monthly Maximum Monthly Median
Chattanooga $1,924 $2,800 $2,362
Clarksville $1,299 $1,606 $1,453
Franklin $2,324 $2,550 $2,437
Jackson $999 $1,155 $1,077
Knoxville $1,699 $3,017 $2,529

Tennessee has 69 independent living communities with the average cost of $1,972 per month.

Costs will vary based on location, size, and the housing options available. In most every Tennessee independent living community, you’ll find housekeeping and linen services, transportation, meal plans, and fitness centers, all included in your monthly payments. It is likely that your community will provide medical services, however, they often come at an additional cost. Here are a few prices found throughout Tennessee.

Recreation & Attractions in Tennessee

Tennessee has many amazing attractions that would interest many residents such as Dollywood, Ruby Falls, Schermerhorn Symphony Center, the Smoky Mountains Opry Theater, Parthenon, and Cling Man’s Dome. Dollywood is an amusement park owned by Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment. The park contains attractions like musical events, thrill rides, crafts, and much more. Ruby Falls is a 145-feet underground waterfall. It is a breathtaking view located over 1,120 feet below the surface of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga.

Schermerhorn Symphony Center and the Smoky Mountains Opry Theater both provide entertainment such as music shows, comedy acts, plays, dances, and more. The Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the one in Athens, Greece and is an art museum. Its focus is on the re-creation of the statue of Athena Parthenos, which was made according to the historical references to the previous statue. Cling Man’s Dome is a mountain in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. A paved road leads to the observation tower offering a panoramic view of the mountain range. 

Tennessee's Climate, Geography & Culture

In general, Tennessee has a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, however, this is not necessarily true for all parts of the state. In the eastern mountainous regions of the state, temperatures may be significantly cooler.

The hot and humid summers have average temperatures in the 80s and 90s, while the winter months bring colder temperatures of about 30 degrees. The state receives more rain and less snowfall than the country's average, recording 52 inches and 6 inches, respectively.

Tennessee's culture is a unique mix of a pioneering mountain spirit and the ways of the American South. As one of the original frontiers to the west, Tennessee has seen a fair share of historical conflict during the Civil War and with the forced eviction of thousands of Cherokee natives. Today, the state embodies a laid back and friendly mentality consumed by classic southern cooking and country music. Whether in Memphis or Nashville, you'll be sure to find a warm welcome and plenty of opportunities for an interesting time.  

Tennessee Independent Living Regulations and Laws

All rules and regulations of Tennessee independent living communities are overseen by the Commission on Aging & Disability. These regulations ensure that all communities meet the appropriate health, safety, and medical conditions. Annual reports are made public upon request, detailing any past violations and the steps taken to correct them. Your safety and satisfaction are of utmost importance to your community and fellow residents, so never feel discouraged from airing your grievance if you think a violation has been made. 

Crime & Safety in Tennessee

Based on recent reports, Tennessee’s crime rates, in terms of both violent and property crime, is higher than the national average. However, crimes per square mile are lower than many other states. While seeking a long-term care option for you or your senior, it can be best to look for the safer locations available. Below are listed some of the safest cities in Tennessee based on population and crime score. 

LocationViolent Crimes Per 1,000 ResidentsProperty Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Loudon1.0512.60
Signal Mountain0.166.93
Brentwood1.9718.77
 

Payment Options for Tennessee Independent Living

Since Medicare and Medicaid don't cover the costs associated with independent living in Tennessee, most seniors pay with their own private funds or through long-term care insurance. If these are unavailable to you, it may be necessary to consider other options. 

To start, U.S. veterans can receive up to $1,644 a month, $1,949 as a married couple, or $1,056 as a surviving spouse of a veteran. Citizens over 65 may also be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) at a rate of $733 a month. To qualify for SSI you must have a disability (including blindness), support a dependent, or lack a sustainable income otherwise. 

Another popular way seniors pay for independent living is through opening a senior living line of credit. This can allow up to $50,000 of unsecured credit paid to your community as needed with flexible repayment options and no collateral needed in most cases. 

Senior & Elderly Rights for Independent Living in Tennessee

As a senior in an independent living community, you reserve the right to manage your own medical care and oversee your personal finances. The rights afforded to you by the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights must also be respected at all times. If you have reason to suspect that your rights have been violated, don't hesitate to contact a lawyer familiar with elder law. You can start by reviewing the Tennessee Ombudsman for further details. 

TS Independent Living Medical Record Rules & Regulations

State and federal HIPAA laws require all resident records and medical reports of services provided on community grounds are recorded, maintained and available to residents in a timely manner. Don't feel pressured to release or share these documents without proper authorization. Depending on the nature of your inquiry, you may request to obtain copies or the original version of your medical records. In Tennessee, your records will be held at their respective facilities for up to 7 years after you've been discharged.  

Finding the perfect senior care community is only part of making your loved one’s senior living transition smooth. At SeniorCaring, we know that it is also equally important to be aware of what other community services and resources are available to your family’s senior. Choose your location and find local resources for your senior.