Nestled at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Knoxville is a quaint city that offers a unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known as the “Gateway to the Smokies,” Knoxville is surrounded by stunning mountains and boasts a vibrant downtown area with plenty of dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.
Knoxville, Tennessee, has become a popular destination for seniors seeking a high quality of life. With a mild climate, walkable downtown, and easy-to-access healthcare, Knoxville is an attractive option for seniors looking for their new home. For seniors looking to live independently but without the hassle of home ownership, senior apartments are a popular choice. These apartments typically have age-restrictions and offer some convenient amenities. While senior apartments are not as common in Knoxville as in some other cities, there are still many options available for seniors interested in this type of living arrangement.
This guide to Knoxville senior apartments is designed to help you or your loved one find an ideal living situation. Using our extensive knowledge and database of senior living options, we provide information on local senior apartment costs, payment options, features, and regulations. Each section also includes valuable information to help ensure seniors have all the information they need to make an informed decision about their living situation.
At A Place for Mom, we can help guide you to our assisted living pages if you need care services. Our empathetic experts are here to simplify your search and help you find the right housing option that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Senior Living Apartments in Knoxville, TN
Nestled at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Knoxville is a quaint city that offers a unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known as the “Gateway to the Smokies,” Knoxville is surrounded by stunning mountains and boasts a vibrant downtown area with plenty of dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.Read more
Knoxville, Tennessee, has become a popular destination for seniors seeking a high quality of life. With a mild climate, walkable downtown, and easy-to-access healthcare, Knoxville is an attractive option for seniors looking for their new home. For seniors looking to live independently but without the hassle of home ownership, senior apartments are a popular choice. These apartments typically have age-restrictions and offer some convenient amenities. While senior apartments are not as common in Knoxville as in some other cities, there are still many options available for seniors interested in this type of living arrangement.
This guide to Knoxville senior apartments is designed to help you or your loved one find an ideal living situation. Using our extensive knowledge and database of senior living options, we provide information on local senior apartment costs, payment options, features, and regulations. Each section also includes valuable information to help ensure seniors have all the information they need to make an informed decision about their living situation.
At A Place for Mom, we can help guide you to our assisted living pages if you need care services. Our empathetic experts are here to simplify your search and help you find the right housing option that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Senior Apartments Facilities near Knoxville, TN
Awesome!Beehive is just so special. Very clean.Very orderly. So caring. Feels like someone's home. Marjorie says she loves living there and never wants to leave.
Our mom has lived at Shannondale Assisted Living for about 4 years. While her mind and body have declined during her 90 years, we find peace in the fact that she is so happy everyday. The staff at...
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- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
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- What families are saying about senior apartments in Knoxville
- Costs of senior apartments in the Knoxville area
- How people pay for senior apartments in Knoxville
- Understand Tennessee laws and regulations for senior apartments
- What to expect from senior apartments in Knoxville
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Knoxville? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about senior apartments in Knoxville
Recent reviews for senior apartments in Knoxville
BeeHive Homes of Powell in Knoxville, TN
Brookdale Browns Creek in Maryville, TN
Shannondale of Knoxville
Costs of senior apartments in the Knoxville area
According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, the average monthly cost of a senior apartment in Knoxville, Tennessee, including rent and additional costs, is $1,105. When considering the cost of senior apartments, it’s important to note that the baseline cost typically includes amenities such as maintenance, transportation, and social activities. Some senior apartments may also offer additional amenities for an additional fee.
It’s important to carefully review each senior apartment’s pricing and service options to determine which option best meets your needs and budget. The following numbers are baseline averages for Knoxville and surrounding areas.
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Knoxville, TN vs. nearby cities
Knoxville, TN
How people pay for senior apartments in Knoxville
When paying for senior apartments in Knoxville, it’s important to note that programs like Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term care insurance do not typically cover these communities. Unlike senior care communities, senior apartments are designed for independent living and do not offer personal care services. However, various payment options are still available to seniors looking for a senior apartment.
When planning a move to a senior apartment in Knoxville, Tennessee, seniors can use various income sources to cover the costs. These sources include savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, and investment returns. Additionally, seniors may also consider selling their house, taking out a reverse mortgage, or utilizing life insurance policies to fund their apartment living expenses.
It’s important to note that long-term care insurance policies typically do not cover the costs of senior apartments, as they are designed to cover medical care expenses or nursing home stays. However, some policies may cover in-home care services or assisted living costs, should a senior need such care within their apartment or require a move to an assisted living facility. It’s recommended that seniors speak with their insurance provider to understand the coverage included in their policy.
If you choose to pay privately for senior apartments in Knoxville, you could consider the following:
For veterans in the Knoxville area, many VA benefits are available to help cover the expenses associated with living in a senior apartment building or community. One of the most common is VA Pension. Seniors must meet certain eligibility requirements such as age and service date, as well as income and net worth, to use these funds to pay for housing. If a senior has a disability, they may also be eligible for the VA Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit on top of the VA Pension.
Another option is the VA’s HUD-VASH program, which issues vouchers to offset the cost of housing for veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Additionally, veterans who’ve made adaptations to their homes to accommodate war-related disabilities may be eligible for a sales tax refund for the cost of materials and labor from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
It is advisable to connect with an advocate who can help you determine eligibility and walk you through the complicated application process.
Number of veterans who live in Knoxville
Percentage of Knoxville veterans that are 65+, according to the US Census Bureau
Resources for Knoxville veterans
Knox County Veterans Services Office
Knox Central Building
1000 N. Central St.
Knoxville, TN 37917
Phone: 865-215-5645
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
5901 Lyons View Pike
Knoxville, TN 37919
Phone: 865-594-9409
Knoxville VA Medical Center
8033 Ray Mears Blvd.
Knoxville, TN 37919
Phone: 865-545-4592
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
James H. Quillen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center Lamont Street and Veterans Way
Johnson City, TN 37604
Phone: 423-926-1171
Hours: 24/7
The name of the Medicaid program in Tennessee is TennCare. This state-funded program provides health coverage to eligible Tennesseans, including seniors. It’s important to note that Medicaid benefits in Tennessee do not cover senior apartments, but medically necessary in-home health care services are covered. Seniors who require medically necessary in-home care services in their apartments may be able to access coverage through TennCare’s Home and Community-Based Services waiver program (HCBS waiver).
The local ombudsman is a resource for understanding the benefits and process. Another helpful resource is the Local Area Agency on Aging, which helps seniors access long-term care services offered by their state and city.
Knoxville resident Medicaid resources
TennCare Connect
Mail paper applications to:
P.O. Box 305240
Nashville, TN 37230
FAX: 855-315-0669
Phone: 855-258-0701
Department of Human Services (DHS)
2700 Middlebrook Pike
Knoxville, TN 37921
Phone: 865-594-6151
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
East Tennessee Area Agency on Aging & Disability
9111 Cross Park Drive Suite D100
Knoxville, TN 37923
Phone: 865-691-2551
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
502 Deaderick St., 9th Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-925-1552
Medicare is a federal health insurance program available to people aged 65 and older and some younger people with specific disabilities. It can help seniors cover some of their medical costs, but it’s important to note that Medicare does not cover senior apartment rent. However, it may cover medically necessary in-home care for short-term medical needs.
Medicare can cover many medically necessary services, including hospital stays, doctor’s visits, medical equipment, and prescription drugs. Medicare may also cover short-term in-home care services, such as physical therapy or skilled nursing care if it’s deemed medically necessary.
To be eligible for Medicare, you must be 65 or older, or have certain disabilities or chronic conditions. Medicare is a federal program, so Knoxville has no city-specific Medicare programs. However, local Medicare savings programs, SHIP programs, and pharmaceutical assistance programs could be valuable in the area.
Seniors in Knoxville can visit their local Social Security Administration office to learn more about Medicare and to apply for benefits. It’s also recommended that seniors contact their local ombudsman for help navigating the Medicare system and understanding their coverage options. The Area Agency on Aging and Disability and the long-term care ombudsman are also advocates.
Seniors in Knoxville can access Medicare benefits by visiting their local Social Security Administration office and may find additional Medicare savings programs that could help pay for deductibles and premiums. The Office of Aging’s Affordable Medicine Options for Seniors (AMOS) program advice, application assistance, and help with connecting to programs that defray prescriptions costs. Senior also get help from the Tennessee Department of Health or find assistance through the Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), a Medicare counseling service, by calling 877-801-0044 or emailing tn.ship@tn.gov.
Knoxville resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration
9031 Cross Park Dr,
Knoxville, TN 37923
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
District Long-Term Care Ombudsman
East Tennessee Human Resource Agency
9111 Cross Park Dr, Suite D100
Knoxville, TN 37923
Phone: 865-691-2551
Office on Aging
2247 Western Ave.
Knoxville, TN 37921
Phone: 865-524-2786
Email: knoxooa@knoxseniors.org
East Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability
408 N. Cedar Bluff Road
Knoxville, TN 37923
Phone: 865-691-2551
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Understand Tennessee laws and regulations for senior apartments
In Tennessee, senior apartments are considered rental properties and are subject to state, federal, city, and county housing laws. While they are not typically licensed, they are required to comply with various regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of tenants. Here is a comprehensive picture of the laws and requirements that may apply to senior apartments in Tennessee:
- Fair Housing Act (FHA) compliance: The FHA prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. Senior apartments must comply with these regulations, including providing reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance: The ADA requires public and private housing to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. This may include modifications to the physical structure of the apartment, such as wheelchair ramps or grab bars in the bathroom.
- Local service/emotional support/therapy animal laws: In Tennessee, landlords are required to allow service animals and emotional support animals, even if they have a “no pets” policy. However, landlords may require documentation from a healthcare provider to verify the need for an emotional support animal.
- Maintenance and safety laws: Senior apartments must comply with various maintenance and safety regulations, such as providing functioning smoke detectors, ensuring that stairways and walkways are well-lit and free from hazards, and addressing any pest infestations.
- HUD laws for Section 8 housing: If a senior apartment participates in HUD’s Section 8 program, they must comply with additional regulations related to rent limits, tenant eligibility, and property maintenance.
- State and local rental laws: Tennessee allows cities and counties to enact their own rental laws, so senior apartments may be subject to additional regulations beyond those required by the state and federal government.
To access information on these laws and regulations, renters can consult Tennessee’s Landlord and Tenant Act, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. Additionally, many cities and counties offer renter guides that provide information on local laws and resources. For example, the Nashville Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency provides a comprehensive guide for renters that includes information on fair housing, security deposits, and eviction procedures.
In terms of inspections, senior apartments may be subject to routine inspections to ensure compliance with housing regulations. Inspection reports are typically available upon request, and renters can contact their local housing authority or code enforcement agency to request a copy of an inspection report.
Requirements for living in senior apartments vary by community, but generally, there is an age minimum (usually 55 or 62 years of age), and income limits may also apply. Some senior apartments may also have additional requirements related to health or mobility, such as requiring tenants to be able to live independently or to be free from certain medical conditions.
Tennessee Department of Health contact information
TN Department of Health
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-741-3111
COVID-19 regulations for Knoxville senior apartments communities
As of February 2023, the regulations regarding COVID-19 in Knoxville senior apartments follow the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC recommends that everyone eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine get vaccinated as soon as possible. The CDC also advises the use of masks in indoor public settings, especially in areas of high transmission, and for individuals who are not fully vaccinated.
Facility cleanliness is a top priority for senior apartment communities in Knoxville during the pandemic. They have implemented additional cleaning and disinfecting protocols, especially in high-touch areas like door handles, handrails, and elevator buttons.
The Tennessee Department of Health provides additional guidance on COVID-19 regulations in the state. For more information, refer to the CDC website and the Tennessee Department of Health website. You can find the full Knox County guidelines and recommendations here, but below is a summary:
Vaccinations. Vaccines are encouraged but remain a personal choice.
Masking. People are urged to wear face coverings in public places.
Social distancing. Keeping a physical distance of six feet from others who do not live in the same household is still recommended when possible.
Quarantining. It is recommended that people isolate themselves at home if they have symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who is sick.
CDC guidelines. Some facilities are still under CDC guidelines and reserve the right to reintroduce the precautions above.
What to expect from senior apartments in Knoxville
Apartments for seniors typically don’t include personal care services but may offer amenities, activities, and maintenance for a stress-free, social lifestyle.
Senior apartments are designed for older adults who are generally able to live independently, but may require some assistance with daily living activities or may just want to live in a community of their peers. Unlike assisted living facilities, senior apartments do not offer personal care services such as assistance with bathing, dressing, or medication management. However, many senior apartments offer amenities such as fitness centers and social activities to help seniors stay active and engaged with their peers. This can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and promote a healthy, social lifestyle.{{citation: 1}}
Senior apartments offer a hassle-free housing option for active and independent seniors. Units are often designed with senior-friendly features for accessibility, such as elevators and wide doorways. Senior apartments typically offer one- or two-bedroom units that are designed with accessibility in mind. These units often feature wider doorways, lower countertops, and other senior-friendly features to help residents move around easily and safely. Additionally, many senior apartments have elevators to make it easier for seniors to get around the building.
While senior apartments don’t provide personal care services or health care, they often include other services and amenities to help make life easier for residents. Some of these may include:
- Home maintenance and repairs: Many senior apartments offer maintenance and repair services to help keep the units in good condition and address any issues that may arise.
- Utilities: Senior apartments often include utilities such as water, heat, and electricity in the monthly rent.
- Security: Senior apartments often have security features such as locked entryways, security cameras, or on-site security personnel to help residents feel safe.
- Transportation: Some senior apartments offer transportation services to help residents get to appointments, shopping, and other activities.
- Social activities: Many senior apartments offer social activities such as game nights, movie screenings, and exercise classes to help residents stay active and engaged with their peers.{{citation: 2}}
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Unfamiliar with Knoxville? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Knoxville
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Knoxville population
Median annual income for Knoxville seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Knoxville
Health care for seniors in Knoxville is readily available and offers a range of options for medical care. There are several hospitals and medical centers that provide specialized care for seniors, as well as a variety of clinics and private practices that offer geriatric medicine services.
Here are some top rated hospitals in Knoxville:
Parkwest Medical Center
Parkwest Medical Center is the joint-fourth highest-ranked hospital in Tennessee. It is a general medical and surgical facility with a cardiac ICU. It performs highly in 11 adult procedures and conditions including heart bypass surgery, colon cancer surgery, and hip and knee replacement.
University of Tennessee Medical Center
The University of Tennessee Medical Center is the joint-fourth highest-ranked hospital in Tennessee. It provides general medical and surgical care as well as emergency and ICU. It is high-performing in 11 adult care areas, including heart failure and stroke.
Transportation for seniors in Knoxville
Knoxville is the third-largest city in the state after Nashville and Memphis, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This can make it difficult to easily get around without a car, especially if you need to travel long distances or if you live in one of the less walkable neighborhoods. While public transportation and other transportation options are available, they may not be as convenient or accessible in all areas of the city. Having a car can make it easier to get around and access the services and amenities you need.
However, the city does have some public transportation options through the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) system, which includes more than 20 bus lines operating along fixed routes every day of the week as well as weekends. KAT also offers a paratransit service called The LIFT, a door-to-door service provided by reservation only for those who are unable to use regular fixed-route buses. Additionally, KAT provides a free trolley in the downtown and university areas.
Other transportation options for seniors include Transportation Counseling, which helps seniors determine which local transportation services meet their needs, Knox County CAC Transit for those who cannot use KAT or The LIFT, and Volunteer Assisted Transportation (CAC), which provides transportation in program vehicles for eligible seniors.
TennCare also offers Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for its members who do not have access to transportation, with rides available for any TennCare-covered service scheduled with 72-hour advanced notice. MyRide TN is another transportation option, which is a volunteer transportation service that provides rides to older adults to various destinations, including medical appointments and grocery stores. Rides are provided Monday through Friday, with priority given to doctor appointments.
Knoxville, Tennessee does rank lower than the average in terms of walkability, according to walkscore.com. Walk Score ranks cities from a scale of 1-100 on their walkability, meaning that Knoxville is primarily a car dependent city. Knoxville also ranks only 30 out of 100 for their bike score, as the city does not have many bike lanes.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Knoxville
Knoxville offers a variety of senior-friendly activities both indoors and outdoors. Some of the most popular attractions include the Sunsphere, Knoxville Zoo, and Dollywood. For seniors who enjoy cultural experiences, Knoxville has several museums and art galleries, including the Knoxville Museum of Art, which features contemporary art exhibits and a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden. The East Tennessee History Center is another great option, showcasing the area’s rich history and offering educational programs and tours. For those interested in culture and the arts, the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and Tennessee Theater are great options.
And for nature lovers, the Knoxville Botanical Gardens are a must-visit. Additionally, the city hosts events such as the Cabin Fever Rod Run Car Show and Market Square, which provide opportunities for socializing and entertainment. Another option is to explore the area’s natural beauty and green spaces, such as the Ijams Nature Center, which has over 300 acres of protected wildlife habitats, hiking trails, and gardens. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also a popular destination for seniors, with scenic drives, hikes, and historical sites to explore.
Seniors interested in sports and recreation can choose from pickleball courts and leagues available, as well as 112.5 miles of paved greenways for walking, jogging, or biking. The city also has several senior centers, including the Larry Cox Senior Center and John T. O’Connor Senior Citizens Center, which offer a variety of activities and programs for older adults. Seniors looking for social activities can check out the Knoxville-Knox County Office on Aging, which offers fitness classes, social events, and day trips to local attractions. The CAC Beardsley Community Farm is a unique option that offers gardening workshops, volunteer opportunities, and events that promote community involvement.
When choosing activities, it’s important to consider accessibility. Many of Knoxville’s attractions have accessibility standards, including wheelchair accessibility and assisted listening devices. It’s always a good idea to check with the individual attraction or activity provider to ensure accommodations are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brookdale Browns Creek, BeeHive Homes of Powell and Shannondale of Knoxville are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near Knoxville, TN. 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 Knoxville is 1632.65 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.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
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