About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Columbia, SC

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Columbia, South Carolina, is an undoubtedly great place for retirees seeking out a slower, more stress-free way of life. Residents of the Palmetto State are lucky enough to spend roughly two-thirds of their year basking in the sunshine. At the same time, Columbia itself is growing fast — but it still maintains a neighborly, charming feel as well as providing everything a senior needs to take it slow. Cost-conscious seniors will also be glad to know that the cost of living falls below the national average.

Whether you’re a retiree looking to make a move toward a convenient lifestyle or a loved one searching on behalf of a senior, you might be considering one of Columbia’s assisted living facilities. These types of communities provide both long-term housing and care for seniors who need it. Although many residents in assisted living are still relatively active, they may require support with activities of daily living: everyday tasks such as getting dressed or using the restroom.

Seniors in Columbia’s assisted living communities will also have access to a variety of amenities and services. These might include medication management from trained staff, on-site nursing, invigorating day trips and outings, and complimentary transportation. However, specific amenities offered will vary across facilities.

In this A Place for Mom guide, we’ll discuss the average monthly costs of assisted living in the Columbia area, payment options you have available to you, laws and regulations you should be aware of, an overview of the city’s assisted living market, and everything Columbia has to offer its seniors — including health care, transportation, and enjoyable activities. We’ll also explore in more depth the six Columbia assisted living facilities A Place for Mom partners with, all of which are in a 10-mile radius of downtown.

Columbia Assisted Living Facilities | 299 Reviews
Showing 24 communities
Last Updated: 3/14/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

Best Meals and Dining

Nutritious meals are one of the most important and valued benefits of senior living. Chefs and meal planners provide residents the right balance of vitamins and minerals – and so much more. The best make sure every dish is made with quality ingredients, tastes great and leaves diners excited for their next meal.

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Amenities
Providers
Types of care available in Columbia, SC
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Assisted Living in Columbia, SC
3.5 / 5.0

The staff is friendly and the housekeeping is good and responsive. The move in process was excellent. My mother is generally displeased with the food. It is bland, overcooked and cheap. They probably need to invigorate the process by having featured meals. For example, Friday fish day, chicken Sunda...

4.8 / 5.0

My dad has been very happy at Merrill Gardens at Columbia so far. The food served is great! He does say that he would like a church service or transportation to a local church on Sundays if possible. I would recommend this facility to others who are looking.

4 / 5.0

My mother was a resident at The Haven for several years before she passed away recently. We found the staff to be so very patient, kind, and compassionate. The biggest challenge for them was keeping track of Mother's belongings, which is typical of any facility of this type. My mother never complain...

Photo of Atria Forest Lake
1010 Photos available
99 Floor plans available
9.7
Review score
72 reviews
9.7
Review score
72 reviews
5 star
63%
4 star
21%
3 star
6%
2 star
4%
1 star
6%
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I was very pleased with the level of service, wide variety of activities, upkeep of the overall facility and the respite room, and attention to individual residents.The only drawback is that they do not...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
In a beautiful homestead with an expansive Southern-style front porch, you'll find Atria Forest Lake, a family-style senior community. Enjoy a quiet walk in the courtyard, relax with friends by the fountain, or visit with family in the dayroom. Located in the heart of Forest Acres, Atria Forest...
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Photo of Fairforest Grove Senior LivingCommunity card badge
1010 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
9.7
Review score
49 reviews
9.7
Review score
49 reviews
5 star
55%
4 star
31%
3 star
8%
2 star
0%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
I do not reside in SC yet had seen the facility via a face time app. No complaints from family that live there. From what I am able to tell, here is the following. And thank you very much for assisting...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
At Fairforest Grove, you’ll feel the difference that regional ownership and management make in creating a warm, family-focused environment, especially suited for senior living. Fairforest Grove is owned and managed by Mainstay Senior Living, not by a corporation or senior care conglomerate. Our...
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Photo of Merrill Gardens at Columbia
1616 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
9.4
Review score
30 reviews
9.4
Review score
30 reviews
5 star
66%
4 star
27%
3 star
7%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My friend is reasonably happy there. She picked this place because of ts proximity to friends, and church, and they allowed her to keep her dog with her.
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Merrill Gardens at Columbia is a new senior living community offering independent living and memory care. We are located next to Segra Park, home of the Columbia Fireflies, one mile from the State House and downtown. We offer luxury senior living in the heart of revitalized BullStreet District....
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Photo of Harmony at Columbia
99 Photos available
3232 Floor plans available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
9.1
Review score
48 reviews
9.1
Review score
48 reviews
5 star
54%
4 star
29%
3 star
13%
2 star
0%
1 star
4%
See all reviews
The staff is very kind and helpful. The Memory Care area could definitely use more support. Mom shares a room and it's quite spacious. Away activities are offered for those residents who are able to...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to The Harmony Collection at ColumbiaIndependent Living | Assisted Living | Memory CareIn our continued effort to meet the demand of seniors in Columbia, South Carolina, we are offering Virtual Tours, an enhanced screening procedure for new residents, along with the security, support,...
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Photo of Brookdale Harbison
1010 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
8.0
Review score
29 reviews
8.0
Review score
29 reviews
5 star
48%
4 star
28%
3 star
10%
2 star
0%
1 star
14%
See all reviews
The friendliness of the staff does vary greatly amongst the staff with some receiving's 1s and some others receiving 5s. What we like the most about the Brookdale Harbison community is the size of facility,...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Embrace The Golden YearsIf you want to embrace your golden years with enthusiasm and energy without sacrificing peace of mind that comes from having access to quality care, look no further than our assisted living community in Columbia, South Carolina. Surrounded by a warm and welcoming care team...
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Photo of Brookdale Columbia
88 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
8.7
Review score
33 reviews
8.7
Review score
33 reviews
5 star
33%
4 star
49%
3 star
18%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I chose the community due to close to my home and the staff was welcoming. The cost was reasonable for my Dads needs now and in the future along with the cleanness.
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
The Greatest AdventureTucked away in a beautiful building in Columbia, South Carolina, you can experience a retirement rich in luxury amenities and spacious accommodations. With personalized care plans, an action-packed events calendar and a warm and friendly group of residents, you may think you...
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Photo of Palmettos of Parklane
44 Photos available
8.0
Review score
9 reviews
8.0
Review score
9 reviews
5 star
67%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
33%
See all reviews
After visiting several places in the Columbia area, I made the decision to place my dear friend at The Palmettos. That was in March 2020. Two and a half years later, I am still confident that I made the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Mill Creek Manor
1717 Photos available
7.9
Review score
31 reviews
7.9
Review score
31 reviews
5 star
29%
4 star
29%
3 star
29%
2 star
0%
1 star
13%
See all reviews
A PLACE FOR MOM was extremely friendly and helpful. Could not have found a place for mom without their help. I would recommend to others. We picked this community because of the cost, and it was friendly.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to Mill Creek Manor Independent, Assisted Living, & Memory Care, located in beautiful Columbia, SCMill Creek Manor is conveniently located to dining, shopping, and surrounded by beautiful Sesquicentennial Park.Here at Mill Creek Manor we provide a senior living neighborhood with the...
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Photo of Wildewood Downs Retirement Community
33 Photos available
1.0
Review score
38 reviews
1.0
Review score
38 reviews
5 star
94%
4 star
3%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
3%
See all reviews
This is a great community and you should come and visit. They have activities like art work, work out classes, walking, dinner parties, movies, bridge and more for the residents to do. I even entered a...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Personalized assisted living services are designed for individuals who are no longer safe or comfortable living alone or without medical supervision nearby. These residents may require various levels of assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) from medication management to assistance with...
Photo of Carolina Gardens at Kathwood
1212 Photos available
5 star
31%
4 star
31%
3 star
19%
2 star
13%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
My mother in law is still adjusting to living at this community. The staff have been fabulous and have helped every step of the way. The entire staff watch out for her. She likes the food and they do offer...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Carolina Gardens at Kathwood is an assisted living and memory care community in Columbia, South Carolina. Located in the capital city of Columbia, our residents enjoy unparalleled access to fine shopping, dining and medical facilities. Columbia is a historic city with a thriving downtown area,...
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Photo of The Haven in the Summit
1111 Photos available
5 star
47%
4 star
21%
3 star
21%
2 star
0%
1 star
11%
See all reviews
My Aunt has been at the Haven for around seven months. She came from another place where she had UTI's all the time. We are still paying bills from those. Here she has not had one. The place is set up...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
We are a 60 bed secured Alzheimer's and Dementia Care community. We promote independence and choice. We have 3 unique neighborhoods where residents are placed dependent on their personal level of cognitive function. This way their neighbors are understanding to each other because they are at the...
Photo of Harbison Hall
8.0
Review score
1 review
8.0
Review score
1 review
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My father really enjoyed himself here everyone was very nice and helpful treated us like family would recommend to anyone.
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of The Palmettos of Parklane
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Highlands Senior Living Columbia
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Rice Estate
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Williams Community Care Home
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Mary's Residential Care Facility #2
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Photo of Watercrest Columbia
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Walters' Retirement Home
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Walters Residential Care
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Laurel Crest
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Laurel Crest
5 star
0%
4 star
100%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Laurel Crest is more expensive, but they had better care than where my loved one is now. The staff to resident ratio was better here and we got much more personalized care. They pay attention the the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of SC Episcopal Home at Still Hopes
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Woods Edge
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

Costs of assisted living in the Columbia area

According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, those staying in assisted living facilities we partner with in Columbia paid $3,864 per month.[02] This monthly cost includes all service and add-on fees, meaning it includes a variety of floor plans, amenities, and additional variables.

A senior’s base monthly cost will include room and board as well as care services. However, services and amenities offered will vary depending on which assisted living facility a senior stays in, and a senior’s individual assisted living costs can fluctuate depending on additional services.

The following chart illustrates baseline costs for the area’s assisted living communities. Please note that unlike the price point above, these figures are initial costs that don’t include service or add-on fees.

Average cost comparisons near Columbia, SC

Average monthly costs

Columbia, SC

$3,849

How people pay for assisted living in Columbia

Seniors looking to move into an assisted living facility in Columbia have a variety of ways to cover their monthly fees. Some might choose to pay out of their own pocket while others seek out additional assistance — but many seniors opt for a combination of both.

In this section, A Place for Mom will detail all of the options you have when it comes to payment, including private payment, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare. We’ll also share resources relevant to each payment option.

Private pay methods

Seniors wanting to fund an assisted living stay are welcome to do so out of pocket. Depending on your individual circumstances, private payment sources might include personal savings, Social Security benefits, returns from investment portfolios, pensions, or any of the following:

VA benefits
7335

Approximately 7,335 veterans live in Columbia, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

About 12% of Columbia veterans are 75 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Veterans looking to move into assisted living in Columbia might qualify for certain VA-provided benefits that could help defray their monthly costs. One of these is the VA’s Aid and Attendance benefit. This is a very generous offering for qualifying veterans that increases funding to their Pensions to cover in-home care services that improve quality of life.

Outreach to veteran service officers is critical

Although these kinds of benefits are available, navigating the world of veterans’ resources can be complicated — which is why it’s so critical for every vet to reach out to a local veteran service officer. These are vetted and recognized individuals who can offer expert guidance to veterans trying to understand the benefits available to them.

Luckily, several resource centers in the Columbia area are available to connect you to these experts and help you understand and obtain the benefits you’re qualified for. The first of these is the Columbia Regional Office, which is the region’s official Veterans Benefits Administration chapter. Other options include South Carolina’s Department of Veterans Affairs, which provides additional resources for vets and their loved ones, and Veterans Services Organizations (VSOs).

Resources for Columbia veterans

Government offices

South Carolina Department of Veterans Affairs
1205 Pendleton St., Edgar A. Brown Building No. 477
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-734-0200
Email: va@scdva.sc.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Columbia Regional Office
6437 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Veterans Services Organizations (VSOs)

VFW Department of South Carolina
210 Glassmaster Road
Lexington, SC 29072
Phone: 803-808-0317
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

National Association for Black Veterans Chapter 0123
1572 Leesburg Road
Columbia, SC 29209
Phone:844-458-1041, ext. 700
Email: nabvetsscscc@gmail.com

Richland County American Legion Post 6
200 Pickens St.
Columbia, SC 20209
Phone: 803-799-2736

Disabled American Veterans
6437 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
Phone: 803-647-2422

Medicaid

Medicaid is another potential payment option for seniors looking to stay at an assisted living facility in Columbia.

Medicaid is a health insurance program for qualifying individuals, including low-income seniors who meet certain income restrictions. Although this is a federal program, it’s implemented at the state level — and residents of the Palmetto State have what’s known as Healthy Connections.

Interested seniors can see more information on South Carolina Medicaid’s eligibility requirements here, including the specific conditions and annual household income limits needed to qualify. Additionally, South Carolinians can browse the state’s Medicaid handbook, which explores how Medicaid works in more detail, gives advice on choosing a doctor, lists covered benefits and services, and more.

Will Medicaid cover assisted living costs in South Carolina?

Those looking to move into an assisted living facility in Columbia should know that Healthy Connections will not cover custodial costs (room and board) in these communities.

However, the program does cover health care services considered medically necessary for seniors who reside in assisted living. These care services are provided via Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs, which permit states to use federal Medicaid funding to provide senior care in an individual’s residence. You can apply for a waiver here.

How to apply for South Carolina Medicaid

Seniors looking to apply for South Carolina Medicaid can do so online via this page on the Healthy Connections website. Those trying to understand whether they’re eligible or seniors seeking assistance with the application process itself can contact Richland County’s Healthy Connections eligibility office, the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), or the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). Each of these offices will either have in-house experts who can answer Medicaid questions or point a senior in the right direction. Additionally, the area’s Local Agency on Aging, the South Carolina Department on Aging (DOA), helps with Medicaid-specific questions for seniors and can connect them with other long-term care services offered by both Columbia and South Carolina.

Seniors in Columbia can also reach out to the designated Healthy Connections Prime ombudsman for the area. The ombudsman guides seniors who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. South Carolina is one of just 15 states to offer coordinated care through this dual program.

Columbia resident Medicaid resources

Columbia Medicaid offices

South Carolina DHHS
1801 Main St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-898-2500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

South Carolina DSS
1535 Confederate Ave.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-898-7601
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Healthy Connections local eligibility office of Richland County
3220 Two Notch Road
Columbia, SC 29204
Hours:  Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Columbia Medicaid resources

South Carolina DOA
1301 Gervais St., Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-734-9900
Fax: 803-734-9886

Healthy Connections Prime Advocate (Medicaid ombudsman)
1301 Gervais St., Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 844-477-4632
Fax: 803-734-4534
TTY: 771
Email: primeadvocate@aging.sc.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Medicare

In contrast with South Carolina Medicaid, a program run jointly by the federal and state governments, Medicare is a completely federally run health insurance program for those 65 or older (as well as certain younger individuals with qualifying disabilities).

Like South Carolina’s Medicaid program, Medicare doesn’t cover custodial costs in assisted living facilities (such as room and board). However, the program can cover short-term care services deemed medically necessary for seniors residing in assisted living communities.

Medicare has two primary components: Part A and Part B. Part A, the plan’s hospital insurance, covers services such as inpatient hospital care, lab work, or care services provided at home. Part B is Medicare’s general medical insurance, which covers things like outpatient care, necessary medical equipment, some in-home care, and specific preventive care.[04]

Applying for Medicare in South Carolina

Eligible individuals can apply for Medicare by visiting Columbia’s Social Security Administration office or can complete their application on this page.

Seniors who would like to understand whether they’re eligible for Medicare — or to learn more about the offering itself — can head to the federal government’s Medicare basics portal. This portal provides seniors with both helpful information about Medicare as well as information about when and how to apply.

Local Medicare programs in Columbia

South Carolinians who need help understanding or applying for Medicare are free to reach out to the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP). South Carolina’s SHIP program exists to guide seniors and their families toward helpful resources covering all things Medicare, from application tips to useful referrals. On the other hand, South Carolina’s Medicare Savings Program can help when it comes to seniors’ health care premiums, fees, and deductibles.

The Richland County Ombudsman is another great resource when it comes to understanding Medicare. The ombudsman’s role is to help educate Columbia residents on Medicare, long-term care, and other age-related concerns as well as providing advocacy whenever it’s needed.

Lastly, Prisma Health SeniorCare offers a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). This is a Medicare-adjacent offering in Columbia that offers a wide variety of health care services to seniors who qualify for a nursing home level of care but want to remain more independent.

Columbia resident Medicare resources

Medicare programs

SHIP
1301 Gervais St., Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 800-868-9095

Medicare Savings Program
Phone: 888-549-0820
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Prisma Health SeniorCare PACE program

Two locations:

1308 Laurel St.
Columbia, SC 29201

1100 Shirley St.
Columbia, SC 29205

Phone: 803-434-3770
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Apply for Medicare

Social Security Administration office
1835 Assembly St., Floor 11 of Strom Thurmond Federal Building
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 866-964-7594

Richland County Ombudsman
Phone: 803-929-6000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Understand South Carolina laws and regulations for assisted living facilities

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is responsible for regulating the state’s assisted living communities, which are referred to as Community Residential Care Facilities (CRCF), according to the South Carolina Code of Regulations’ chapter 61-84. This outlines the licensing requirements and guidelines all of South Carolina’s assisted living facilities must adhere to:

  • Licensing: South Carolina’s assisted living facilities are required to secure licenses from the DHEC. Licenses are valid for one year, meaning they’re renewed annually.
  • Staffing: In South Carolina, assisted living facilities are required to have a staff-to-patient ratio that ensures adequate care for residents. This includes licensed nurses and staffers who are available 24/7.
  • Care: Residents in assisted living facilities must receive personal care. This includes assistance with activities of daily living, such as using the restroom or eating. Medication management and nursing care should be provided as needed.
  • Physical spaces: Assisted living facilities should have appropriate physical spaces for residents. This involves providing adequate space and furnishings, enough lighting and ventilation, and a secure environment.
  • Admissions and discharges: Facilities must have clear guidelines related to admissions and discharges that are employed consistently across residents. Discharge must only be provided in specific cases (such as nonpayment).
  • Resident rights: Residents in assisted living facilities have rights, including the right to privacy and the right to be present during care discussions and planning. They can also file complaints if these rights are infringed upon. These rights are outlined in the South Carolina Bill of Rights for Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities.
  • Reporting: Assisted living facilities must report specific types of incidents — resident deaths, severe injuries, and infectious outbreaks among them — to the DHEC.

Additionally, Columbia’s assisted living facilities must be inspected by the DHEC at least once every two years. However, these inspections may be more frequent if there are concerns about the conditions inside a facility. Inspections ensure facilities are up to code with the state regulations outlined above and will include interviews with facility staff, residents, and family members. If an assisted living facility is deemed not compliant following an inspection, the facility itself could be subject to enforcement actions. These might include fines, suspended or revoked licenses, or corrective action.

You can search here to see if a facility is licensed, but inspection reports aren’t online. You’ll have to contact the DHEC using the information below to request records.

South Carolina Department of Health contact information

2600 Bull St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 855-472-3432
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Columbia assisted living facilities

Columbia’s Department of Health and Environmental Control’s does provide guidance specific to COVID-19 for community residential care facilities, which includes assisted living communities.

Some of DHEC’s guidelines as of September 2021 are listed below, but all guidelines are available on this page.

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Facility cleanliness. Frequently touched surfaces should be regularly disinfected. Hand hygiene with alcohol-based sanitizer is also encouraged.

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Staff safety. Staff should wear the appropriate personal protective equipment in the facility.

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Social distancing. Social distancing of at least six feet between individuals is suggested.

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CDC guidelines. The state relies on U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance concerning protocol for COVID-19 exposure or illness.

Get to know assisted living in Columbia

6Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
4.3/5.0 average in-network rating
100% of our partner communities offer full medication management
100% of our partner communities offer on-site nursing
100% of our partner communities offer memory care
50% of our partner communities offer an on-call doctor
2274
Number of people we’ve referred to assisted living facilities in Columbia
79
Average age of the residents we’ve referred to partner assisted living facilities in Columbia
Gender split: 67% female

What to expect from assisted living in Columbia

Columbia is a fast-growing city, and it’s easy to see why. With a relatively low cost of living when it comes to housing, a wonderful climate, and a friendly and charming atmosphere, Columbia is a stellar place for seniors to spend their golden years.

Better yet, Columbia’s assisted living communities offer their senior residents a chance to live independently while still receiving assistance whenever necessary. They also provide an array of attractive amenities and services so residents can relax and truly enjoy themselves.

A chance for independence with highly personalized care

Seniors who are somewhat active, but still might require assistance with certain tasks enjoy assisted living for the level of independence it provides. Unlike more in-depth types of care, residents in assisted living aren’t under 24-hour supervision — but they do have access to a variety of care-related services that help them live their lives with ease. These include help with personal care or activities of daily living (think getting dressed, bathing, or using the restroom). Certain facilities may also offer convenient services such as laundry, dry cleaning, housekeeping, and beauticians.[02]

Besides the basic care assisted living facilities provide, Columbia’s communities also offer a well-rounded array of health services to ensure residents are healthy and taken care of. The services provided will depend on the individual facility, but Columbia’s assisted living facilities generally offer:[02]

  • Full medication management
  • Incontinence care
  • On-site nursing
  • On-site hospice care
  • At least some degree of memory care
  • On-call doctors
  • Specialized memory care training for staffers
  • Visiting occupational, physical, or speech therapists
  • Visiting podiatrist

In short, seniors at Columbia’s assisted living facilities will be well taken care of, no matter their health needs.

Opportunities to increase care

Many of Columbia’s assisted living facilities also provide other types of care, meaning seniors who want a facility that can adapt to them no matter their care needs are in luck. One A Place for Mom partner assisted living facility offers this care type alone, but five other facilities offer more varied care:[02]

  • Two facilities combine assisted living with memory care.
  • One facility merges assisted living with independent living.
  • One facility offers assisted living, senior apartments, independent living, and memory care.
  • One facility offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care: a highly progressive offering when it comes to senior care.

With this in mind, seniors who aren’t quite sure of their care needs — or are simply concerned about the degree of care they could need in the future — might consider residing in an assisted living facility in Columbia that also provides other types of senior care.

Something to do — no matter your interests

When it comes to playful amenities and services, assisted living facilities in Columbia certainly go the extra mile. Opportunities for social butterflies will include things like religious study groups, wine tastings, book clubs, intergenerational programs, barbecues, picnics, holiday parties, and more, depending on the individual facilities.[02]

Looking for opportunities to learn something new or get out and about? Don’t fret: Some assisted living communities in the area offer up art classes, live dance or theater performances, Tai Chi, yoga (or chair yoga), day trips and outings, and complimentary transportation.[02]

Homebodies or seniors who just want to kick back and relax are also accounted for. At Columbia’s assisted living communities, seniors can simply choose to enjoy the array of amenities available on-site. Depending on the facility, these might include (but aren’t limited to) libraries, TV lounges, arts and crafts centers, movie or theater rooms, raised gardens, butterfly or hummingbird gardens, barber shops and beauty salons, patios, and more.[02]

Explore senior care with confidence

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Find top facilities for you.

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Unfamiliar with Columbia? Highlights for seniors

14,110

Number of seniors 65 and older currently living in Columbia, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

10%
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Columbia population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
$46,630

Median annual income for Columbia seniors 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Health care for seniors in Columbia

Seniors in Columbia have access to two great hospitals that will cover all medical needs.

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Lexington Medical Center

Lexington Medical Center is the city’s top-ranked medical center. It performs especially well in 11 different adult procedures and conditions, including colon cancer surgery and diabetes care.

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Columbia VA Health Care System

Columbia’s veterans are able to access health care services through the city’s dedicated VA Health Care System. This facility offers everything from primary care to mental health care to social programs.

Transportation for seniors in Columbia

The five independent living facilities we partner with all offer free transportation to residents. But if you’re looking for broader options or want to go out with a friend, a car is the best way to get around. Even though walking in Columbia isn’t impossible, it’s not the easiest method of transportation — Walk Score gave Columbia a 35 out of 100 for its walkability.[06]

Columbia’s public transportation options are more limited, with Walk Score giving the city a 0 out of 100 score for this transportation method.[06] Nevertheless, the city does offer bus lines to its residents. Residents without cars can still ride the Comet bus system. The Comet runs 34 routes around the Columbia area each day. Lucky for seniors, it also offers special discounts to individuals 65 and above, people with disabilities, and veterans.

Those who aren’t able to board a Comet bus due to disability can opt to use the city’s Dial-A-Ride Transit (DART) Service in its place. DART’s buses are highly accessible, as each one has wheelchair lifts and includes a personal attendant. Better yet, it doesn’t place restrictions on where passengers can travel to or how much they use the service. DART fares are $4, and the service runs Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Another public transportation option could be more useful to those checking out downtown Columbia: The Soda Cap Connector runs to interesting destinations in this area, and it costs $1 to ride. Although it’s not the most wide-ranging transportation option, it might prove helpful when visitors come to town.

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35

Walk Score

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Transit Score

Transportation card image
35

Bike Score

Senior activities in Columbia

As a decently sized city with a laid-back feel, Columbia offers plenty to enjoy for people of all interests and abilities.

Retirement is a great time to start fine-tuning your golf game, for instance. Luckily, you’ll have plenty of gorgeous courses in the Columbia area, including Cobblestone Park Golf Club and Oak Hills Golf Club. These are both highly rated golf courses that offer discounts to seniors as well as senior-friendly tee times.

If playing golf isn’t relaxing enough, maybe a day out fishing would do the trick! Sesquicentennial State Park — or “Sesqui,” as it’s known by locals — is a great park to go and spend a day by yourself or to bring family and friends. It features trails, fishing and boating opportunities, and a large lake for swimming and picnicking. Those looking for a world-class nature experience, however, should check out Congaree National Park. Located about a 25-minute drive from Columbia’s city center, Congaree is home to intact old-growth hardwood forest and features a variety of activities visitors can enjoy. The park itself is also accessibility-minded and has accessible trails and all-terrain wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Looking for a nature experience that’s a little more buttoned-up, though? Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to more than 3,000 animals living in lush exhibits. This is another great place for family fun or to spend the day by yourself.

Although Columbia doesn’t have any professional sports teams, sports fans can still have their fun. Why not check out budding baseball stars at a Columbia Fireflies game while enjoying a hot dog and a beer? The Fireflies offer senior-friendly games and promotions, and the stadium they plan in has accessibility accommodations for those with mobility limitations.

Art lovers will find that this is another area in which Columbia’s attractions do not disappoint! The Columbia Museum of Art boasts over 7,000 works, but if you are looking for a performance — whether it be a concert, a play, or a musical — check out the Trustus Theatre and the Koger Center for the Arts. Film buffs can even enjoy movies of all types, ranging from classic to foreign or independent, at the Nickelodeon Theater.

The art museum isn’t the only museum you’ll find in Columbia, though. If the grandkids are in town, why not treat them to a day at the EdVenture Children’s Museum? The South Carolina State Museum can also quench your thirst for knowledge when it comes to science and history. For a more regional flavor, check out the South Carolina Military Museum.

And of course, we can’t forget about the food and the shopping! If you want to be surrounded by awesome architecture while you’re enjoying a meal, Congaree Vista is the district for you. Devine Street is arguably the most popular shopping district in the Columbia area, however, with more great options for shopping and dining. And if you pop down to Five Points, you just might run into a festival.

Speaking of festivals, Columbia has a few fan favorites. The big winner is the South Carolina State Fair, but equally fun is the jubilant Greek Festival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Atria Forest Lake, Harbison Shores and Fairforest Grove Senior Living are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Columbia, SC. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Assisted Living in Columbia is 3849.18 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. Payscale. (n.d.). Cost of Living in Columbia, South Carolina.

  2. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population Estimates 2021: Columbia, South Carolina [Data set].

  4. Medicare.gov. (n.d.). What Medicare covers.

  5. U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). Lexington Medical Center.

  6. Walk Score. (2023). Living in Columbia.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.
2.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population Estimates 2021: Columbia, South Carolina [Data set].

4.

Medicare.gov. (n.d.). What Medicare covers.

5.

U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). Lexington Medical Center.

6.

Walk Score. (2023). Living in Columbia.