10 Best Independent Living Communities in Scottsdale, AZ
Sunny Scottsdale is one of the country’s premier retirement destinations, and the reason why is no mystery. Pair pleasant Sonoran Desert weather with world-class health care options, an abundance of indoor and outdoor activities, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a senior-focused atmosphere, and you have a stellar locale to spend your golden years in — not to mention the third-best retirement city in the country.
Seniors who are looking into independent living communities are generally active, and they’re typically seeking a lower-maintenance lifestyle as well as ample opportunities to relax and socialize with like-minded seniors. Although assisted living facilities will offer help with activities of daily living such as getting out of bed or using the bathroom, independent living doesn’t provide this kind of care or supervision for residents. Instead, these communities often offer up perks such as dining services, complimentary transportation, and social activities and outings to make sure residents’ lives are comfortable and fulfilling.
If you’re looking to move into one of these communities, A Place for Mom partners with 17 independent living communities within 10 miles of downtown Scottsdale. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share more details about the independent living facilities in the Scottsdale area so you can make the best decision for yourself and your family. We’ll also outline more information about the costs of independent living facilities in Scottsdale, how residents pay for their stays, important laws and regulations governing these communities, health care and transport options in the city, and engaging activities you can do around “The West’s Most Western Town.”
Scottsdale Independent Living Facilities | 1043 Reviews
We looked at many assisted living communities and when we visited McDowell Village and met [name removed] , we knew we had found the right place for our dad. [name removed]and the team there made us feel...
Revel Scottsdale is an extremely welcoming and friendly place, where intelligent, active seniors engage in numerous activities (like bridge, scrabble, mah jong, cards, fitness workouts, trivia contests,...
Favorite things about Legacy Revel: • Incredibly friendly and helpful people from the initial concierge service/administrators at the front desk to the kitchen staff and servers...to the maintenance...
I really can't say enough about the staff. They are immensely kind and helpful. Acoya has experienced some turnover but they have always managed to recruit the right staff. The facility is absolutely...
What we like the most about Sunrise of Scottsdale is the friendly staff, and various activities and other residents. I trust that she is being looked after. The transportation service on Tuesdays and...
I'd say I highly recommend them. No negatives. Mom is 98 so she doesn't use all the available activities but they do have a lot them daily.
[name removed] was there on a respite stay for 1 month. However during that time I was very happy with her stay. The food was good, and the staff responded fairly fast when she needed help.
5's all the way. It's expensive but they treat their residents very well. My mom loves it there. The staff bend over backwards to make the living experience great. Rooms are very nice and they do so many...
Nice and clean place. Good, qualified and friendly staff. Fresh baked cookies daily which the residents love. Administrative and nursing g personnel easily available for questions and or concerns. Front desk...
Pueblo Norte is blessed to have [name removed], Sales Director, leading its commercial team. He cares for each resident there well beyond the point of the sale. This is best evidenced by his willingness to...
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Friendship among residents and looking out for reach other is the main plus. Hourly workers are very caring and look after our needs. We would like to see more communication between staff concerning changes...
The staff took our needs to heart. Though my loved one needs memory care but didn't want to be there "jailed" she has appreciated that the staff realize her needs are not so strong & she & a few other...
My dad passed away in [date removed]. The people at truewood are amazing. Everyone was cheerful and always helping without being asked. I would highly recommend them.
I think the staff and residents lead with kindness, and everyone seems happy or at least content to be there. The environment is relaxed, people and dogs walking around, folks stopping to chat. Lots to do! A...
My loved one is currently a resident at The Ranch Estates at Scottsdale and everything has been great. The staff is excellent to my mother. Housekeeping does a nice job. The move in process went without a...
Everyone we met at the facility went out of their way to help in any way they could to get my mom who has dementia into the facility. They were kind to my mom and made sure at every step of the way that her...
My parents have been very pleased with Acoya. The apartment, staff, facility & food has been great! The facility is new & beautiful! The decor is very pretty & mom loves walking the halls to exercise &...
It was a difficult to realize that she needed more care than I could provide. Thanks to the recommendations I was able to find a community that not only meets her needs but provides an atmosphere that we are...
The whole facility, including all the common areas, is quite clean and always smells good. My mom gave it a 4 only because the cleaning people seem to ignore my Dad's floor in his room.) My dad requires a...
My experience has been extremely positive. The minute you walk in the door you are met with friendly faces...which is the overall culture of the community. Staff is attentive, caring and kind. Administrative...
Brookdale Paradise Valley is a pretty and unique senior community with a Koi pond, palm trees and swimming pool with daily water aerobics. Each apartment has a small patio or balcony which we have not seen...
The nurse and administrative staff are great. The facilities guy is great. The older front desk lady is not very helpful. As far as the activities go, they did not seem to have many activities geared...
All are a 5. My loved one is quite happy there and participates in many activities as there is such a variety. Based on the experience we have had so far, we would absolutely recommend Sagewood Desert Willow...
We chose Lifestream because we were so impressed with the community and staff. Location is convenient as well. The facility is AMAZING. Staff is incredibly caring and take amazing care of the facility and...
The community and apartments are beautiful, the staff is very friendly and helpful. We would recommend this community to other families based on the experience we have had so far
Our methodology
How we rank order the Scottsdale community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Scottsdale community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your search location
- Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
- The amount of detailed community information available
Where we source our information
14,000+ communities
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
350,000+ reviews
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
- Costs of independent living in the Scottsdale area
- What families are saying about independent living in Scottsdale
- How people pay for independent living in Scottsdale
- Understand Arizona laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Types of independent living in Scottsdale
- Scottsdale independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Scottsdale? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in the Scottsdale area
A Place for Mom’s proprietary data shows that residents of Scottsdale’s independent living facilities pay an average of $4,941 monthly.[02] This includes associated fees and service fee add-ons, but the individual cost a senior pays will depend on factors like the floor plan or amenities they select. Besides basic monthly rent prices, costs in Scottsdale’s independent living facilities may include access to either at-cost or complementary transportation, fitness centers, private dining rooms, and swimming pools. However, exact amenities will depend on each community’s specific offerings.
In the chart that follows, we’ll cover baseline costs for the Scottsdale area’s independent living facilities. These costs don’t include add-on fees, so they’re a great way to compare overall costs in surrounding areas.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Scottsdale, AZ vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Scottsdale, AZ vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Scottsdale vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Scottsdale, AZ by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Scottsdale over time
What families are saying about independent living in Scottsdale
Recent reviews for independent living in Scottsdale
Legacy Village of Salt River in Scottsdale, AZ
MorningStar at Arcadia in Phoenix, AZ
Garden Ridge in Peoria, AZ
Reviews mention these favorite features of communities
How people pay for independent living in Scottsdale
In this section, you’ll find information on the different ways to pay for an independent living stay in Scottsdale. Options include private payment, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Those interested in Scottsdale’s independent living communities should know that Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care insurance will not cover base living costs at these facilities because they don’t provide care. However, both Medicaid and Medicaid will still pay for medically necessary in-home care services for individuals in independent living facilities.
Continue reading for more specific insight into the varying ways to finance an independent living stay.
Those looking to move into an independent living facility in Scottsdale are free to rely on private payment methods to finance their stay.
Long-term care insurance doesn’t cover independent living facilities given that these communities don’t provide care or include care-related fees in their monthly costs. However, seniors can certainly consider other forms of private income sources when looking for ways to pay for their stay. These include personal savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, and returns on investment portfolios. Likewise, seniors can consider the following sources:
The number of veterans who live in Scottsdale, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
About 71% of Scottsdale veterans are 65 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
If you’re a veteran looking to move into one of Scottsdale’s independent living communities, you should be aware that the VA provides benefits that may be able to defray your monthly costs (as long as you are eligible).
Regardless, navigating the complex world of VA benefits can prove difficult — and that’s why veterans services officers are there to help you out. These VA-vetted experts are savvy about all things VA benefits, and reaching out to them is a must when you’re trying to understand the veteran-specific benefits you could be entitled to. Arizona’s veterans services officers are known as Veteran Benefits Counselors (VBCs).
Next, we’ll explore some of the most common VA programs that can help veterans who need assistance paying for an independent living facility. We’ll also cover more local organizations and VBCs who are there to help walk vets through the process of learning about and applying for benefits.
VA and tax benefits
Do you receive a VA Pension? If so, you could look into the VA Aid and Attendance benefit, which could help cover some of your monthly living costs in one of Scottsdale’s independent living communities. The Aid and Attendance benefit works by increasing VA Pension payments.
Arizona also has state and county tax benefits for veterans that could help pad their pocketbooks and make it easier to pay for independent living. Arizona itself ensures that military retirement payments aren’t taxed by the state, and Maricopa County allows personal tax exemptions for veterans who are living with a disability and received an honorable discharge.
VBCs around Scottsdale
Thanks to the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, the Grand Canyon State has more than 50 VBCs who are ready to assist vets and their family members who are seeking more insight into veteran-specific benefits they may qualify for.
Even if you believe that you won’t qualify for these kinds of benefits, contacting a dedicated VBC will never hurt. In fact, this will ensure you learn about all of the benefits you’re entitled to, which you might miss without expert guidance.
Contact information for VBCs is below if you’d like to start this conversation. All VBC services are provided virtually at this time; however, these experts can contact veterans or their loved ones by phone or email if they’re unable to access videoconferencing technology.
Local organizations that help Scottsdale vets
Although it’s not located directly in Scottsdale, the Veterans Administration’s Regional Benefit Office is there to assist local veterans with any questions surrounding VA benefits. This office can also put you in contact with the right expert if it’s unable to address a question or concern you might have.
At the same time, seniors may want to reach out to nongovernment veterans’ associations with benefits-related questions and concerns. The American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) have local chapters veterans can get in contact with. Of course, these organizations can also provide a sense of community and camaraderie.
Resources for Scottsdale veterans
Veterans Benefits Administration Phoenix Regional Office
3333 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services (VBCs)
3839 N. Third St.
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: 602-535-1215
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
American Legion Sipe-Peterson Post 44
7145 E. Second St.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Phone: 480-941-0130
VFW Stanley A Crews Post 3513
7220 E. Wilshire Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Phone: 480-941-9849
DAV Department of Arizona
38 W. Dunlap Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85021
Phone: 602-678-0333
Email: admin@az-dav.org
Medicaid is a federal health insurance offering that can assist low-income seniors with health care-related costs. However, states carry out their own Medicaid programs with federal guidance, and in Arizona, Medicaid is referred to as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS).
Although Medicaid doesn’t cover housing costs charged by independent living communities — such as rent — it does cover medically necessary in-home health services within the independent living facilities seniors stay in thanks to Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. When it comes to understanding the specific HCBS waivers you qualify for, A Place for Mom recommends reaching out to an AHCCCS representative.
If you’re interested in pursuing Medicaid coverage, Arizona’s eligibility requirements are on this page (alternately, this guide published by the AHCCCS lists these same guidelines). You can apply for AHCCCS coverage via Health-e-Arizona or by filling out a paper application.
If you need help getting an idea of the Medicaid-related benefits you could qualify for, many local resources are there to lend a hand. Of course, the local AHCCCS branch is there to answer any and all Medicaid-related questions. However, the Phoenix Area Agency on Aging (AAA) can address aging-related concerns and share more information about health care programs a senior might be entitled to. Phoenix also has a dedicated Medicaid ombudsman, an impartial individual who can provide informal guidance as well as address disputes and ensure the state’s Medicaid program is operating fairly.
Additional resources
AHCCCS
801 E. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: 602-417-4000
AAA Region 1, Incorporated
1366 E. Thomas Road, Suite 108
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Phone: 602-264-2255
Email: info@aaaphx.org
Ombudsman Joanne MacDonnell
2020 N. Central Ave., Suite 570
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-277-7292
Email: ombuds@azoca.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Individuals 65 and older automatically qualify for Medicare, which is the federal government’s health insurance program for seniors. Medicare doesn’t cover independent living stays (think monthly rent). However, the program will pay for short-term in-home care deemed medically necessary — even if a senior does reside within an independent living facility.
In general, Medicaid will cover medical costs such as:
- Lab work
- Prescription drugs
- Health care provided in a senior’s residence
- Certain types of preventive care
- Certain screening services
If you’re interested in reading more about Medicare’s specific eligibility requirements or the application process, you can do so here. Individuals who need to apply for Medicare can do so in person at their local Social Security Administration (SSA) branch or via this sign-up portal.
Arizona resources that assist with Medicare
Arizonans who need guidance surrounding Medicare applications or covered services are in luck, as there are plenty of resources they can turn to. The state’s Department of Economic Security (DES) has a Division of Aging and Adult Services that offers both a State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) and a Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program that are helpful in this regard.
The former offers free counseling for all Arizonans who are looking to make the most out of their care options, but it also offers assistance to certain lower-income Medicare beneficiaries for insurance premiums, prescription payments, and doctor’s visits. On the other hand, the SMP’s specialty is avoiding Medicare-related abuse, fraud, and similar issues. It has staffers and volunteers who coach Medicare beneficiaries on skills like protecting sensitive information, identifying errors in health care statements, and recognizing scams. A similar but unrelated program is Health-e-Arizona, which helps individuals learn about the coverage and benefits that are available to them.
Seniors who are more interested in finding Medicare payment assistance should look toward the state’s Medicare Savings Program, which is provided through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. This specific program ensures that seniors who are struggling to cover Medicare costs can apply for assistance with Medicare premiums, co-payments, and deductibles. Information on applications is on this AHCCCS page, and more details about eligibility can be found here.
The Area Agency on Aging (AAA) in nearby Phoenix provides another option for seniors with Medicare questions, as it’s there specifically to assist and support individuals with aging-related concerns. Maricopa County also has a booklet that provides more details on Medicare plans its residents have access to, which could be helpful for older individuals who are still considering their options.
An ombudsman can assist
Area ombudsmen are a critical resource for seniors with Medicare questions. Besides being able to provide informal guidance surrounding Medicare, ombudsmen are there to serve as an impartial party whenever residents have disputes or concerns. Residents of the Grand Canyon State can seek their services through the Arizona Ombudsman Citizens’ Aide.
Additional resources
Social Security Administration Office
16241 N. Tatum Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone: 800-772-1213
Email: SF.RPA@ssa.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Arizona Department of Economic Security (SHIP)
Phone (confidential SHIP assistance helpline): 800-432-4040
Phone (Maricopa County lines): 602-280-1059 or 800-432-4040
Senior Medicare Patrol
Phone: 800-432-4040
Health-e-Arizona
Phone: 855-432-7587
Email: SF.RPA@ssa.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
AHCCCS
801 E. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: 602-417-4000
AAA Region 1, Incorporated
1366 E. Thomas Road, Suite 108
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Phone: 602-264-2255
Email: info@aaaphx.org
Arizona Ombudsman Citizens’ Aide
2020 N. Central Ave., Suite 570
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-277-7292
Fax: 602-277-7312
E-mail: ombuds@azoca.gov
Understand Arizona laws and regulations for independent living communities
Below, we’ll share more specific information about the laws and regulations for different types of independent living communities in the area.
Regulations for standalone independent living communities in Scottsdale
Independent living communities generally don’t require special licensing given that they’re not care facilities, but they’re still subject to applicable rental and housing laws.
In general, residents in Scottsdale’s independent living facilities will have all maintenance and repairs taken care of by the property itself. This also includes ensuring apartments are in a livable condition. However, residents are expected to maintain their units and not make alterations without consent from the community. If there are disputes between independent living communities and residents, they are resolved privately.
Age or income limits and health requirements
Independent living facilities may have age or income limits for prospective tenants, which will vary depending on the individual facility. Age limits ensure seniors can be around like-minded peers while still making sure they can live with their spouses, and these usually start at either 55 or 62. On the other hand, income limits exist so that seniors with lower incomes can still secure a quality living space. Independent living facilities may also require that residents meet certain health requirements to reside there (e.g., not being bedbound).
Inspection and licensing rules
Arizona requires that every property manager who handles residential or commercial properties has a state-issued real estate license. Likewise, independent living facilities in Scottsdale may also receive one of four types of inspections meant to maintain alignment with the city’s housing regulations:
- Initial inspection: All vacant units must undergo this type of inspection before a move-in date. Inspectors will check out exteriors, plumbing, heating and cooling, exits, and individual rooms to make sure everything is in good shape for tenants.
- Yearly inspection: Facilities will undergo annual inspections that confirm whether tenants and landlords are aligned with housing quality standards. Landlords are responsible for repairs if a building is not compliant.
- Special inspection: These inspections are carried out when tenants or landlords request them on a specific part of a unit.
- Quality-control inspection: The Scottsdale Housing Agency is in charge of ordering these inspections, which are meant to ensure that properties follow housing-quality standards.
Scottsdale’s building permits and inspection records are available on this portal.
Safety and maintenance rules
Arizona requires that landlords meet the following stipulations:
- Ensure that homes align with their local building requirements and health code.
- Carry out repairs that ensure a unit or home is in livable condition.
- Make sure common areas are secure and clean.
- Ensure that electrical, plumbing, sanitation, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and similar things are safe and in proper working order.
- Offer trash containers and make sure refuse is picked up.
- Ensure running water/hot water, heat, and air conditioning or cooling are available (unless a landlord controls these services exclusively and they’re provided by a public utility).
Arizona has a handbook covering tenants’ rights and responsibilities that outlines more specific information — from processes surrounding lease agreements and security deposits to eviction requirements.
The Americans with Disabilities Act and Fair Housing Act
Scottsdale’s independent living facilities must align with standards outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In general, the ADA requires that buildings feature accessibility features necessary for those living with disabilities, including things like ramps, accessible entrances and common areas, and grab bars in bathrooms.
The same goes for the Fair Housing Act: Legislation that prohibits discrimination based on protected characteristics (these include things like race, age, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status). As a result, an applicant’s age is not a reason for independent living communities in Scottsdale to deny housing, and these facilities must meet reasonable requests from those with disabilities. This might include facilities that generally don’t allow pets accommodating seniors who have service or emotional support animals.
You can read through a specific list of actions prohibited under the Fair Housing Act here.
Regulations for combined independent living communities in Scottsdale
It’s also important to note that some A Place for Mom-partnered Scottsdale independent living communities have assisted living and skilled nursing wings on site, which are regulated in the same way as standalone assisted living communities and nursing homes.
Inspection and licensing rules for combined communities
The Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS) is in charge of licensing, regulating, and inspecting residential care institutions in Arizona, including assisted living and memory care facilities. While its Bureau of Residential Facilities Licensing is in charge of licensing and regulating these communities, the DHS’s Division of Licensing Services also licenses and monitors them as well as conducting inspections. Facilities are inspected by the Division at least once every two years, but the frequency of inspections may increase if the ADHS receives a complaint or believes a facility isn’t complying with Arizona’s regulations.
During these inspections, surveyors from the ADHS examine facility staff, the quality of care and medication management residents receive, nutrition offered, and similar factors. They might also choose to conduct interviews with staff or residents, read through relevant documents, and observe care practices. If a facility is found to be noncompliant, it must correct any infractions. The ADHS may also charge penalties or take other actions if a facility is still found to be in violation of state regulations or doesn’t address its violations.
You can search for a specific facility’s licensing records using this state-provided portal.
Arizona Department of Health Services contact information
150 N. 18th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-542-1025
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Scottsdale independent living communities
In Scottsdale, independent living facilities do not have any strict regulations surrounding COVID-19. However, A Place for Mom highly recommends reaching out to the independent living facilities you’re interested in to see whether they have any individual COVID-specific guidelines.
The city of Scottsdale does have this list of health and safety suggestions that could be helpful for curbing COVID-19’s spread in the community. And besides publishing its own COVID guidelines, Arizona’s Department of Health Services (DHS) also stays abreast of updates created by the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Note that independent living facilities that combine different care types may be subject to more specific COVID-19 regulations outlined by the DHS.
Types of independent living in Scottsdale
It’s no secret why Scottsdale is a haven for retirees. After all, a warm and sunny climate, top-tier health care offerings, abundant natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene create a well-rounded desert town for seniors looking to relax and enjoy their golden years. All of this also means that Scottsdale isn’t lacking in senior-minded accommodations — including an array of independent living facilities that can meet seniors’ must-haves. In this section, we’ll share more information about the area’s independent living market and everything these facilities offer.
Continuing levels of care
If you or your loved one is concerned about being at a facility that offers multiple levels of care, rest assured that Scottsdale has options. Of A Place for Mom’s 17 partner facilities in the area, just three are standalone independent living facilities. Five combine assisted living and independent living, and nine offer assisted living, independent living, and memory care — a very progressive care classification.[02] Because the care these independent living facilities provide can adapt to meet the needs of seniors as they grow older, this provides an additional layer of security for residents.
Luxurious options for seniors
Scottsdale is known for providing all the best that life has to offer, and its independent living facilities certainly keep up with that expectation. Besides their artfully designed and decorated facades and interiors, many of the area’s independent living facilities are known for their extensive list of comfortable amenities.
Specific luxury offerings will vary by facility, but examples include movie or theater rooms; swimming pools; cafés, bistros, patio dining, and restaurants with VIP service; spas; and bocce ball courts. It goes without saying that seniors looking for a life of luxury will feel right at home in Scottsdale’s independent living communities.
A sense of ease and convenience
Independent living is great for seniors who are looking to take a bit more hassle out of their daily lives, and Scottsdale’s communities ensure seniors won’t have to worry about the little things. In certain communities, residents can enjoy convenient perks such as housekeeping, laundry services, on-site health and fitness classes, daily meals, beauty salons and barber shops, at-cost or complimentary transportation, and 24-hour staff. Independent living communities will also take on grounds maintenance, cover utility bills for residents, and handle repairs.
Besides this, seniors are free to choose from a variety of floor plans to find the space that’s right for them. Exact offerings will vary by facility, but options range from cozy studio apartments to large villas.
Scottsdale independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Scottsdale independent living
Availability of select dining options in Scottsdale independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Scottsdale independent living
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Unfamiliar with Scottsdale? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Scottsdale, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Median annual income for Scottsdale seniors 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Health care for seniors in Scottsdale
If you’re seeking quality health care options in Scottsdale, you won’t have to look far — in fact, the area is home to several world-renowned medical institutions. We’ll share information here on the area’s top hospital systems.
HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center
HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center is a top performer across seven different adult procedures and conditions — including knee replacements and care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease — and is within Arizona’s top 10 hospitals.
Mayo Clinic of Phoenix
It’s no surprise that the world-renowned Mayo Clinic’s Phoenix location is the area’s best medical facility. It also performs especially well in 19 procedures and conditions (and is even nationally ranked in 10 conditions).
Carl T. Hayden Veterans’ Administration Medical Center
Veterans seeking either primary or specialty care can head to the Carl T. Hayden Veterans’ Administration Medical Center, which is the area’s dedicated U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospital.
Transportation for seniors in Scottsdale
Looking to explore the beautiful surroundings in Scottsdale? It might be best to go by automobile, as most residents rely on their cars when doing errands or getting from point A to point B. However, you won’t even need your own set of wheels because all of our partner independent living facilities offer free transportation.
Scottsdale also has minimal public transit, but you can still get around on Scottsdale’s trolley system or the Valley Metro system, which serves the city of Phoenix and surrounding areas. Valley Metro has a fleet of buses, a light rail system, streetcars, vanpools, and paratransit offerings. While Scottsdale’s trolley is free and operates on a 20-minute cadence Monday through Friday, a one-way Valley Metro fare will set you back $2. If you’re 65 or older, on Medicare, or have a disability, however, you’re eligible for a discount.
Bikers should take note, as Scottsdale has great options for those who’d prefer cycling around. In fact, the League of American Bicyclists awarded the city “Gold Level Bicycle Friendly” status due to safe biking options, many miles of bike-specific roadway, and the many bike-accessible trails in the area.
The following three ratings are from Walk Score. They’re calculated out of 100 and show how easy or difficult it is to get around town using certain transportation methods.[07]
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Scottsdale
Although it’s on the smaller side compared to other cities in Arizona, Scottsdale boasts a variety of engaging activities seniors and their loved ones can enjoy.
Given the city’s large senior population, it’s no surprise that Scottsdale is home to two dedicated senior centers. The Granite Reef Senior Center has 13 multipurpose rooms and hosts many different activities, including current events discussion groups, table tennis, and Canasta. Located about a 15-minute drive north, the Via Linda Senior Center also offers up senior-specific activities, from knitting and crocheting to matinee movies. Seniors are also sure to enjoy Talking Stick Resort Casino, which offers exciting slots, 24/7 poker, a variety of table games, and other traditional casino offerings.
If you’re looking for something indoors for all ages, though, Scottsdale won’t leave you empty-handed. It’s home to many world-class museums, including famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West winter estate; the Smithsonian-affiliated Western Spirit, which covers both Western and Indigenous culture; and Penske’s memorabilia-filled Racing Museum. The OdySea Aquarium might be more geared toward families and younger audiences, however, so it could be a great place to bring the grandkids for a shark tour or sloth encounter.
For a night of enjoying the arts, you also have plenty of options in Scottsdale. The Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts hosts festivals, musicians, dancers, plays and more, while the more intimate Desert Stages Theatre is perfect for those interested specifically in plays and musicals. Those looking for daytime arts jaunts could head to Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art to check out some stunning architecture and design pieces.
Of course, Scottsdale is known for its breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert — meaning many outdoor activities can also be found here that allow you to relax, learn, and take in some nature. The city offers its residents public pickleball courts, fishing and boating opportunities, tennis centers, and pools where you can beat the desert heat. Scottsdale’s Cactus Park is another public option: It’s home to 17 acres of greenery perfect for viewing and relaxing among picnic villas, ample bench seating, and one of the best public pools in the city. Sports fans might opt to head to Scottsdale Stadium for spring training instead to check out the San Francisco Giants before baseball season, and avid hikers can explore McDowell Sonoran Preserve from its ample trailheads.
But for nature that’s more on the polished side, why not check out Troon North Golf Club? Featuring amazing views of the Pinnacle Peak, this highly rated golf club is sure to impress both Scottsdale residents and guests alike. If you have grandkids in tow, you might consider the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center instead, which offers appointment-only tours of its wildlife rehabilitation center, or Butterfly Wonderland, the largest butterfly conservatory in the States.
Ready to round out your day with some shopping and a meal? Scottsdale Fashion Square features outdoor dining and shopping options, while Old Town Scottsdale marries Old West flare with locally owned boutiques and restaurants. No matter your cup of tea, Scottsdale has a special brew especially for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
McDowell Village, Revel Scottsdale and Revel McDowell Mountain are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Scottsdale, AZ. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Scottsdale is $11,401 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
KTAR News. (2021, September 9). Scottsdale ranked as one of best US cities for retirement, WalletHub says.
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.
U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center.
U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic-Phoenix.
Walk Score. (2023). Scottsdale.
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