Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington is the ideal retirement destination for seniors who love horses. But even for those who don’t, Lexington has something to offer all seniors, thanks to its rich history, culture, and variety of attractions.
Senior apartments in Lexington are a great option for retirees who don’t need regular health care services or daily assistance but who still want senior-friendly amenities like wheelchair-accessible showers and ground-floor abodes. There are several senior apartment complexes within a 10-mile radius of Lexington’s downtown that might be the perfect fit.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about senior apartment options in Lexington, including the average costs and ways to pay, health care information, transportation details, and the amazing things to do as an active senior in Lexington.
Senior Living Apartments in Lexington, KY
Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington is the ideal retirement destination for seniors who love horses. But even for those who don’t, Lexington has something to offer all seniors, thanks to its rich history, culture, and variety of attractions.Read more
Senior apartments in Lexington are a great option for retirees who don’t need regular health care services or daily assistance but who still want senior-friendly amenities like wheelchair-accessible showers and ground-floor abodes. There are several senior apartment complexes within a 10-mile radius of Lexington’s downtown that might be the perfect fit.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about senior apartment options in Lexington, including the average costs and ways to pay, health care information, transportation details, and the amazing things to do as an active senior in Lexington.
Senior Apartments Facilities near Lexington, KY
It was the best fit for my mother, the physical layout, the activities available, the friendly and caring people, easy communication access, it is close to my home, within our budget. I would recommend to...
One of the floors has college students on it. The community is kept neat and clean and I would recommend this community to others based on my experience.
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- Compare local facilities
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- What families are saying about senior apartments in Lexington
- Costs of senior apartments in the Lexington area
- How people pay for senior apartments in Lexington
- Understand Kentucky laws and regulations for senior apartments communities
- What to expect from senior apartments in Lexington
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Lexington? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about senior apartments in Lexington
Recent reviews for senior apartments in Lexington
Elk River Senior in Georgetown, KY
Friendship Towers Assisted Living in Lexington, KY
Daisy Hill Senior Living in Versailles, KY
Costs of senior apartments in the Lexington area
The cost of senior apartments in Lexington depends on multiple factors such as size, location, and features. The average cost for a senior apartment in Lexington is $913. You can expect to pay as little as $707 and as much as $1,165.[01]
The following costs in the graphic below show the average baseline costs for senior apartments, but these costs do not include any additional fees.
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Lexington, KY vs. nearby cities
Lexington, KY
How people pay for senior apartments in Lexington
Senior apartments are considered general housing just like any apartment or home. Since there is no special care provided, the cost of a senior apartment is not covered by long-term care insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid.
Many seniors in Lexington will pay for their own senior apartments. However, there are public assistance programs for low-income seniors that can help cover rent. For seniors who do require in-home health care services, Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care insurance may help cover some of the costs.
The following information includes what you need to know about private pay options, housing assistance, VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid resources for seniors.
For seniors paying privately for their senior apartment, most use funds from savings and other sources of income such as Social Security benefits, pensions, and investments. Other possible sources for payment include the following:
Number of veterans who live in Lexington
About 47 percent of Lexington veterans are 65+
Veterans can rest easy thanks to the numerous programs available in Lexington to help offset the costs of a senior apartment. Here we explain various resources available to you, as well as ways to help you navigate the process of applying for benefits.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (also known as the VA) is a crucial resource when it comes to benefits. While the VA does not give funds for senior apartments, veterans can use their VA Pension to help with housing costs and health-related needs. Veterans enrolled in VA health care can apply for the Aid and Attendance benefit for additional funds to put toward housing and other services.
Applying for VA benefits can be complicated. Fortunately, a veterans services officer can help seniors navigate the process to ensure they receive the benefits they’re entitled to. For seniors who think they may not be eligible for certain benefits, it is still worth contacting an expert to make sure.
For more information about VA benefits, the regional VA office in Louisville can provide eligibility advice and explain how to apply for certain benefits. Or, for a resource right in Lexington, representatives of local veterans services organizations (VSOs) can provide help with benefits and claims.
Seniors can also contact the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs Benefits Division, which has representatives to assist Kentucky veterans with the benefits they are owed. Find more helpful information in the resource section below.
Resources for Lexington veterans
VA Regional Office
321 W. Main St., No. 390
Louisville, KY 40202
Phone: 800- 827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs
1111B Louisville Road
Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: 502-564-9203
Veterans of Foreign Wars Bluegrass Post 680
1494 Leestown Road
Lexington, KY 40511
Phone: 859-254-8277
National Association for Black Veterans
3022 Tuscaloosa Lane
Lexington, KY 40515
Phone: 859-421-5851
Medicaid will not cover the cost of a senior apartment, but it will cover in-home health care services if medically required. Seniors in Kentucky can make use of these services through the Home and Community-Based (HCB) waiver. The goal of this program is to help seniors live independently. As such, the HCB waiver provides a number of services, such as adult day health care, home-delivered meals, and respite care.
To apply for an HCB waiver, seniors must first meet financial eligibility for Medicaid. Kentucky seniors can apply for Medicaid online via Kynect, the state’s one-stop shop for benefits, or by calling the Department for Community Based Services.
Seniors can also speak directly with a Kynector — a local representative who helps residents apply for benefits such as Medicaid — or an insurance agent. Both can advise and help seniors apply for benefits. Alternatively, seniors can give permission to a third party, such as a family member, friend, or attorney, to serve as an authorized representative and apply for Medicaid benefits on their behalf.
For additional help finding out which benefits you are eligible for, both the Bluegrass Area Agency on Aging & Independent Living and the Bluegrass District Ombudsman can help. Find contact details in the Medicaid resources listed below.
Lexington resident Medicaid resources
The Department for Community Based Services (DCBS)
455 Park Place
Lexington, KY 40511
Phone: 855-306-8959
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Bluegrass Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living
699 Perimeter Drive
Lexington, KY 40517
Phone: 866-665-7921
Email: ADRC@bgadd.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Bluegrass District Ombudsman (Alice Salyers)
Nursing Home Ombudsman Agency of the Bluegrass, Inc.
3138 Custer Drive, Suite 110
Lexington, KY 40517
Phone: 859-277-9215 or 877-787-0077
Email: alice@ombuddy.org
Those at least 65 can apply for Medicare, a federal health insurance program. Medicare does not offer compensation for senior apartments, but you can use it to offset costs for in-home, short-term medical care.
Kentucky has the following programs through Medicare to help cover medical expenses:
- The Medicare Savings Program is a federal program that can cover expenses for different parts of Medicare, including Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). While the Medicare Savings Program is a Medicare initiative, it is offered through state-run Medicaid offices.
- Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program (KPAP) – This program directly connects with savings programs offered by pharmaceutical companies.
- The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a program to help seniors remain independent in their homes. PACE offers a wide variety of services, such as preventative care, dentistry, and medication management. All services are covered by Medicaid and Medicare for those who qualify.
It can be difficult to find out which benefits you are eligible for, but there are plenty of local resources to help. The Kentucky State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a free service that offers counseling and guidance to seniors and those with disabilities to ensure they understand their rights and the benefits available to them.
Another good resource is the Lexington Social Security Administration office, where you can learn how to apply for Medicare. Your local ombudsman and The Bluegrass Area Agency on Aging & Independent Living can also offer guidance on what benefits you’re eligible for. For more information and contact details, explore the resources below.
Lexington resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration Office
2241 Buena Vista Road, Suite 110
Lexington, KY 40505
Phone: 866-530-7754
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Office of the Ombudsman and Administrative Review
275 E. Main St., 2E-O
Frankfort, KY 40621
Phone: 502-564-5497
The Bluegrass Area Agency on Aging & Independent Living
699 Perimeter Drive
Lexington, KY 40517
Phone: 866-665-7921
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Kentucky State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
275 E. Main St., 3E-E
Frankfort, KY 40621
Phone: 502-564-6930
Bluegrass PACE Care
2409 Members Way
Lexington, KY 40504
Phone: 855-492-0812
Low-income seniors may feel overwhelmed by paying for a senior apartment, but fortunately, there are housing assistance programs and Social Security benefits that can help.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Housing Choice Voucher program is a federal rental assistance program specifically designed to help low-income citizens find safe and quality housing. In Lexington, this program is run by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Housing Authority, and seniors can apply for assistance through the online application. Please be aware a landlord must accept vouchers, so always ask property owners about voucher acceptance before looking at a senior apartment complex.
For seniors not using vouchers but still interested in affordable senior apartments, the Lexington Housing Authority offers an affordable housing list of options not associated with HUD or the Housing Authority.
Seniors can also use Social Security benefits to offset housing costs or any costs of living. It is important to understand the different types of benefits. The first option is the Social Security Retirement benefit which is based on work credits or what you paid through taxes while working. Similar to a paycheck, the Social Security Retirement benefit means you receive money monthly to make up for income lost when you stop working or work fewer hours.
Another option is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) which provides benefits to those who have work credits but are also disabled. A similar benefit is the Supplemental Security Income (or SSI) which is a benefit for people who are disabled but do not have work credits. Finally, the Social Security survivors pension is designed for widows or widowers of eligible workers with work credits. This benefit does not require disability.
For additional local guidance on applying for public assistance and navigating Social Security benefits, the City of Lexington offers Aging and Disability Services through the Lexington Senior Center and other locations. The Lexington Office of Housing Advocacy & Community Development can also offer guidance on affordable housing or let you speak to an advocate if you have a housing issue.
Lexington resident public assistance resources
Lexington-Fayette Urban County Housing Authority
300 W. New Circle Road
Lexington, KY 40505
Phone: 859-281-5060
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Kentucky HUD Office
601 W. Broadway, Room 110
Lexington, KY 40202
Phone: 502-582-5251
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Lexington Security Administration
2241 Buena Vista Road, Suite 110
Lexington, KY 40505
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Lexington Office of Housing Advocacy & Community Development
200 E. Main St.
Lexington, KY 40507
Phone: 859-258-3070
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Lexington Aging and Disability Services
195 Life Lane
Lexington, KY 40502
Phone: 859-278-6072
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Understand Kentucky laws and regulations for senior apartments communities
For tenants interested in living in a senior apartment, there are several requirements to be aware of. Senior apartments in Lexington typically require that tenants:
- Be 55 years or older
- Meet income restrictions (depending on the location)
- Pass a credit and background check
- Provide references from previous landlords
Unlike a care facility, senior apartments in Lexington do not need to be licensed or regularly inspected. However, like any apartment, they need to follow housing laws and regulations. Key laws to be aware of include:
- All housing and apartments, including senior apartments, fall under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which prohibits housing discrimination on the basis of race, religion, sex, nationality, etc.
- Apartments must also be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means all common areas in an apartment building, as well as a number of units, must be accessible to people with disabilities.
- Another rule under the FHA and ADA is that assistance animals must be allowed if a tenant with disabilities requires it. For example, a person who is blind must be allowed to have his or her guide dog, even in a building that advertises no pets.
- To ensure safety for residents, all homes and apartments in Lexington must be compliant with the International Property Maintenance Code and the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government Code of Ordinance. These codes require a number of rules around fire safety, construction, environmental regulations, air quality, plumbing, and more.
The Division of Code Enforcement carries out rental inspections to make sure all properties are compliant. Inspections can be accessed through this citizen portal. Please be aware users must create an account to access information.
If a home or apartment participates in the housing choice vouchers program, there are additional rules property owners must follow. They also must also allow regular health and safety inspections.
For information about tenant rights, the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General offers a General Consumer Guide to Rental Housing.
COVID-19 regulations for Lexington senior apartments communities
There are no local COVID-19 mandates in Lexington. However, the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department encourages high-risk residents, which includes those over 60 and residents who have chronic health conditions, to take precautions against COVID-19.
The information below includes COVID-19 guidance from the Kentucky Department of Health (KDPH). If you are moving to a senior apartment in Lexington, it is also worth checking with the complex if they have any of their own COVID-19 guidelines.
Vaccinations.
Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated and stay up-to-date with boosters.
Masking.
Masking is not required but should be considered following exposure or if you are at high risk.
Quarantining.
High-risk residents or those over 60 are encouraged to stay home as much as possible, especially if sick or if they test positive for COVID-19.
Social distancing.
High-risk individuals are encouraged to avoid crowds and close contact when out in public.
What to expect from senior apartments in Lexington
Lexington is most famous for its horses, but the city is also known for its Kentucky bourbon, historic attractions, and thriving cultural scene. It also offers access to excellent health care and an active senior community.
Moving to a senior apartment in Lexington can be a good choice if you want all the freedom of living independently without the frustrations, costs, and obligations of caring for a large home, single-family dwelling, or townhouse. There are options that range from high-rise living to apartments that look more home-like from the outside complete with porches.
Live with like-minded individuals
Residing in senior apartments can have several advantages, particularly for independent seniors. These living spaces cater to individuals aged 55 and above, allowing them to connect with like-minded peers. Additionally, senior apartment complexes prioritize amenities that cater to the needs of a mature population, including wider doorways and elevators. This way, seniors can lead a comfortable retirement lifestyle without being burdened by tasks such as lawn mowing, leaf raking, or snow shoveling.
Senior apartments with desired amenities
Senior apartments in Lexington offer seniors the amenities they need but the freedom they want to maintain their active lifestyle. Senior apartments in Lexington can include wheelchair-accessible showers, ground-floor apartments, and covered parking, as well as pet-friendly options and on-site activities for seniors. Some apartment complexes have swimming pools, walking trails, and outdoor grills for residents to use.
Countless things to do
There is always something to do for active seniors in Lexington. As the “Horse Capital of the World,” the wider Bluegrass region is home to more than 400 horse farms[04] There are also a number of historic sites and bourbon distilleries to explore, plus a variety of restaurants, bars, and art galleries.
Lexington also has plenty of activities for seniors, whether you’re looking for a fitness class or a book club. The Lexington Senior Center offers activities such as educational classes, art classes, and drop-in billiards.
Senior apartments in the surrounding Lexington suburbs
For seniors open to living outside of Lexington, nearby towns and cities, including Frankfort, Georgetown, Nicholasville, and Versailles, also offer senior apartment options, all within a 25-mile radius of Lexington.
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Unfamiliar with Lexington? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Lexington
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Lexington population
Median annual income for Lexington seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Lexington
University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital
The University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital in Lexington is the No. 1 ranked hospital in Kentucky and many of its specialties are ranked nationally. It is a teaching hospital and also has Central and Eastern Kentucky’s only Level I trauma center.
Lexington Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Lexington Veterans Affairs Medical Center is a general medical and surgical facility that serves veterans in the Bluegrass region. With two campuses in Lexington, the VA offers primary care as well as a variety of specialty care services, including geriatrics, mental health care, women’s health care, and more.
St. Joseph Hospital-Lexington
With 135 locations in central and eastern Kentucky, St. Joseph Hospital-Lexington is part of a wider system, CHI Saint Joseph Health, that includes hospitals, clinics, and specialty institutes. The hospital is particularly known for its cardiology, stroke, and orthopedics services and is rated “high performing” in five adult procedures and conditions: colon cancer surgery, heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, and stroke.
Baptist Health Hospital
Baptist Health Hospital in Lexington is a 434-bed hospital but is also a medical research and education hub thanks to its Clinical Research Center. Also known for its excellence in nursing, the hospital is part of Baptist Health which was the first U.S. health system in the U.S. to receive Magnet or Pathway to Excellence designation by the American Nursing Credentialing Center for all of its hospitals.
Transportation for seniors in Lexington
A car is recommended for living in Lexington. According to Walk Score, a service that advises on the walkability of cities, Lexington has a score of 34 out of 100, meaning most errands require a car.[09] Lexington can also have heavy traffic, so always plan accordingly at busy times.
If you like to explore on foot, the city’s downtown is very walkable. With restaurants, shops, and art galleries, downtown Lexington is a small but fun area to walk around and can be crossed in less than 30 minutes on a nice day.[09]
For seniors who prefer public transport or are unable to drive, there are a few options:
- Independent Transportation Network (called iTNBluegrass) is a nonprofit transportation system specifically for the aging population and the visually impaired. Similar to a taxi service, seniors can sign up for a membership and book rides using a prepaid account.
- Lextran is the city’s public transit system and has buses running every 30 minutes. Veterans, Medicare cardholders, people with disabilities, and people over 62 all receive a discounted fare of 50 cents.
- Wheels is a partnership between Lextran and the Bluegrass Area Chapter of the American Red Cross to provide transportation to people with disabilities. Potential users must submit an application to ensure they meet eligibility requirements.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Lexington
As a bustling city, Lexington offers endless opportunities for seniors to stay active and engaged. Residents of this region have access to a plethora of options for entertainment, shopping, and recreation. In addition, there are numerous senior centers located throughout the county that provide a hub for older adults to connect, engage in fitness activities, and socialize with like-minded peers. Lexington is an ideal place for retirees to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
An equestrian’s dream
Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington is the perfect city for senior equestrians. With more than 400 horse farms in the wider Bluegrass region, seniors can take a bus or arrange a private tour to explore Horse Country.[04] For horse racing, there’s no better place than Keeneland Race Course, which hosts races and events throughout the year.
History, culture, and entertainment
For history buffs, Lexington is home to famous sites, including the Mary Todd Lincoln House, the childhood home of the famous First Lady, and Ashland, the preserved estate of Henry Clay. Lexington is also a hub for bourbon enthusiasts and features its own historic Distillery District. Visitors can take a tour and enjoy a taste of bourbon at working distilleries such as the Barrel House Distillery and the James E. Pepper Distillery.
Senior-specific activities
While Lexington can be enjoyed by people of all ages, it has a particularly vibrant senior scene. The Lexington Senior Center always has a slate of events, classes, and trips available for seniors. Friends of The Lexington Senior Center supports the senior center by funding “the little things” that improve the quality of life for active seniors, such as offering free coffee, art supplies, and free rides to seniors so everyone can make it to the senior center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Daisy Hill Senior Living, Friendship Towers Assisted Living and Elk River Senior are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near Lexington, KY. These Senior Apartments facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Senior Apartments in Lexington is 1032.73 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101). [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101). [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Lexington Kentucky Visitors Guide. (2023). Horse Farm Tours in the Horse Capital of the World: Lexington, Kentucky.
University of Kentucky HealthCare. (n.d.). General Internal Medicine & Geriatrics.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Locations | VA Lexington Health Care | Veterans Affairs.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). St. Joseph Hospital-Lexington.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Lexington-Fayette.
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