For seniors looking for their next home in retirement, The Woodlands is a great option. It’s well-known for its exceptional access to parks, hiking trails, and green spaces, making it an ideal choice for anyone who values leading an active lifestyle surrounded by nature. The Woodlands is also a short drive from Houston, providing the perfect balance of suburban and big-city living.
This guide highlights A Place for Mom’s 13 independent living partner communities in The Woodlands that prioritize independence and convenience and have a variety of amenities to make life more enjoyable in retirement. They create an effortless and convenient setting for independent seniors who are in good health, actively engaged, and capable of living on their own but desire the added convenience of community amenities, such as meal services.
In this guide, you’ll discover more about independent living costs within a 10-mile radius of The Woodlands’ city center, with information on available payment methods. You’ll learn the details of laws and regulations that safeguard seniors’ rights, health care options, transportation services, and some of the activities available to take part in.
10 Best Independent Living Communities in The Woodlands, TX
For seniors looking for their next home in retirement, The Woodlands is a great option. It’s well-known for its exceptional access to parks, hiking trails, and green spaces, making it an ideal choice for anyone who values leading an active lifestyle surrounded by nature. The Woodlands is also a short drive from Houston, providing the perfect balance of suburban and big-city living.Read more
This guide highlights A Place for Mom’s 13 independent living partner communities in The Woodlands that prioritize independence and convenience and have a variety of amenities to make life more enjoyable in retirement. They create an effortless and convenient setting for independent seniors who are in good health, actively engaged, and capable of living on their own but desire the added convenience of community amenities, such as meal services.
In this guide, you’ll discover more about independent living costs within a 10-mile radius of The Woodlands’ city center, with information on available payment methods. You’ll learn the details of laws and regulations that safeguard seniors’ rights, health care options, transportation services, and some of the activities available to take part in.
The Woodlands Independent Living Facilities | 932 Reviews
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- What families are saying about independent living in The Woodlands
- Costs of independent living in The Woodlands area
- How people pay for independent living in The Woodlands
- Understand Texas laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Get to know independent living in The Woodlands
- Types of independent living in The Woodlands
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with The Woodlands? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about independent living in The Woodlands
Recent reviews for independent living in The Woodlands
Watermere at Woodland Lakes in Conroe, TX
The Heritage Tomball Senior Living
Landing at Woodland Lakes in Conroe, TX
Costs of independent living in The Woodlands area
Based on proprietary data from A Place for Mom, the total monthly cost of independent living communities we partner with in The Woodlands is $3,303.[01] This reflects the average actual price, including any associated fees and service add-ons.
Independent living is tailored for seniors who prefer an active lifestyle and a hassle-free living experience, so the cost doesn’t include services such as personal care. However, it covers home maintenance, security, and access to amenities like on-site swimming pools or fitness centers.
Some common services and amenities covered within the expenses include the following:
- Meals and dining
- Wheelchair-accessibility to showers, rooms, and common areas
- Air conditioning
- Transportation and parking
- Beauty salons/barber shops
- Meeting rooms
- Libraries
- Main street shops
- Indoor and outdoor common areas
- Swimming pools
- Fitness centers
The following chart provides an overview of the typical base costs of independent living in The Woodlands, excluding any additional fees.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in The Woodlands, TX vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in The Woodlands, TX vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in The Woodlands vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in The Woodlands, TX by room type
How people pay for independent living in The Woodlands
When it comes to paying for independent living communities, options can vary widely depending on a range of factors, including personal finances and eligibility for specific programs. It’s worth noting that independent living communities generally aren’t covered by Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term care insurance since they don’t provide medical care. However, these programs may help seniors pay for medically necessary in-home care services while residing at independent living facilities.
In the following sections, you will find various payment options for independent living, including private payment methods, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Many seniors rely on personal income to cover the cost of independent living. This income can come from various sources, including savings, Social Security benefits, investment returns, and pensions. Additionally, seniors may also combine these sources with other forms of personal income, such as:
Number of veterans who live in The Woodlands
About 39% of The Woodlands veterans are 65+
Seniors can tap into various VA benefits to help cover the costs associated with independent living. The Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit is designed to support seniors who require assistance with daily activities, are in a nursing home or bedridden due to illness, or have limited eyesight. This benefit is an additional monthly payment to a VA Pension and can offset the cost of independent living communities because it can help pay for anything as long as it improves the quality of life of the recipient. Seniors can apply for this benefit online or in person at a regional VA office, and if approved, it can provide valuable financial support to help cover living expenses.
Working with a local veterans service officer can be helpful for seniors looking to maximize their VA benefits. These officers can provide information about the benefits that a veteran may be eligible for and ensure that no benefits are overlooked. In The Woodlands, seniors can access these experts through the Montgomery County Veterans Service, the Texas Veterans Commission, based in Austin, or veterans service organizations (VSOs).
Resources for The Woodlands veterans
Montgomery County Veterans Services – Conroe Office
2247 N. First St., Suite 219
Conroe, TX 77301
Phone: 936-539-7842
Hours: By appointment only
Texas Veterans Commission
Phone: 512-463-6564
Email: info@tvc.texas.gov
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4709
1303 W. Semands Ave.
Conroe, TX 77301
Phone: 936-703-3316
Email: info@vfw4709.org
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 78
Phone: 832-581-9444
Email: montgomerycountyDAV@gmail.com
Phone: 281-298-2440
While Medicaid does not cover rent costs associated with independent living, it can provide financial assistance for medically necessary in-home health care services in some cases. In Texas, the Department of Health and Human Services administers Medicaid through the Your Texas Benefits portal.
In Texas, there are five types of Medicaid plans, and coverage depends on where a person lives and their health issues. Texas residents who are unsure about what plan they’re eligible for can log into their Your Texas Benefits account or call the Texas Enrollment Broker Helpline.
Many people finance in-home health care through the home and community based services (HCBS) waiver program. This program covers various services, including personal care, in-home care, and nursing. The waivers available include the following:
- A-3310 Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS)
- A-3320 Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD)
- A-3330 Home and Community-based Services (HCS)
- A-3380 STAR+PLUS Waiver (SPW)
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the waiver, but typically a senior must have limited income, be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal alien living in Texas, and be at least 65 years old.[03]
Medicaid applications are accessible online, but the application process can be lengthy and complex. Therefore, we recommend seeking additional assistance and guidance from the Houston-Galveston Area Agency on Aging or the Aging and Disability Resource Center for Medicare. Additionally, the Health and Human Services Office of the Ombudsman and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman are available to advocate and support those with complaints.
The Woodlands resident Medicaid resources
Texas Department of Health and Human Services
North Austin Complex
4601 W. Guadalupe St.
Austin, TX 78751
Phone: 512-424-6500
Houston-Galveston Area Agency on Aging
3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 100
Houston, TX 77027
Phone: 800-437-7396
Phone: 713-627-2300
Aging and Disability Resource Center
1111 Collins Road
Richmond, TX 77469
Phone: 832-681-2635
Phone: 855-937-2372
Texas Enrollment Broker Helpline
Phone: 800-964-2777
Health and Human Services Office of the Ombudsman
Phone: 877-787-8999
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Montgomery County: Julianne McCoy
Phone: 832-544-4769
Medicare is a health insurance program managed by the federal government, intended for people 65 or older. Medicare does not cover custodial costs (such as room and board) for independent living communities. Nevertheless, it can pay for various medical expenses and urgent health care needs, such as hospitalization, physician consultations, laboratory tests, medical equipment, and in-home care.
To apply for Medicare, you can visit your local Social Security office or sign up for Medicare online.
Several local resources are available to assist individuals in navigating the Medicare system or obtaining financial assistance, including:
- The Texas Medicare Savings Program is designed to assist those who meet income criteria with Medicare premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance costs. Applications for the program can be found on the Your Texas Benefits portal.
- The Texas Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program offers all Medicare recipients financial counseling and Medicare enrollment assistance.
- The Area Agency on Aging of the Houston-Galveston Area provides counseling and assistance with Medicare benefits and options for seniors who require support.
Additionally, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, run by the Area Agency on Aging, can assist seniors and their families.
The Woodlands resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration Office
600 N. Sgt. Ed Holcomb Blvd.
Conroe, TX 77304
Phone: 866-614-0032
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Wednesday, 9 a.m. – noon
Houston-Galveston Area Agency on Aging
3555 Timmons Lane, Suite 100
Houston, TX 77027
Phone: 800-437-7396
Phone: 713-627-2300
Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program
Phone: 800-252-9240
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Montgomery County: Julianne McCoy
Phone: 832-544-4769
Understand Texas laws and regulations for independent living communities
Standalone independent living communities are exempt from regulation by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission because they don’t provide care services. Instead, independent living residents are protected by county, state, and federal laws governing renters. These are the federal laws to be aware of when it comes to independent living:
- The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on familial status, disability, race, nationality, religion, and sex. The Housing for Older Persons exemption, part of the Fair Housing Act, guarantees that only approved housing is available for people over 55.
- The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that independent living communities must provide adequate accessibility, including common areas, and prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has laws specifically for Section 8 of the Housing Act, which protects tenants. Most independent living communities require tenants to be over 55 under the Fair Housing Act, and some have higher age minimums.
There are also additional local laws that protect renters, including:
- The Texas Property Code outlines the landlord’s and tenant’s rights and responsibilities regarding leases, rent payments, security deposits, and repairs. For instance, it protects tenants from retaliation by landlords if they report code violations or assert their rights as renters.
- The Montgomery County Fair Housing Ordinance is similar to the federal Fair Housing Act but includes additional protected classes such as age, marital status, and sexual orientation.
You can review the online guide for more information on Texas landlord/tenant laws and tenants’ rights.
More than half of independent living communities in The Woodlands are combination facilities with assisted living and/or memory care; in these cases, independent living communities follow the same regulatory measures as the communities they’re partnered with.
In Texas, senior care is licensed by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS). Facilities must pass on-site safety code and health inspections and are reinspected every two years. These inspections also include an observational element to see how residents are cared for. Inspections can be found online through the Texas Department of Health and Human Services provider search portal.
Many independent living communities also have their own resident requirements. For example, most require seniors to be at least 55 years old, in good health, and able to live independently without assistance. There may also be financial or credit criteria, though these will be dependent on the facility.
Texas Department of Health contact information
Texas Department of Health and Human Services
North Austin Complex
4601 W. Guadalupe St.
Austin, TX 78751
Phone: 512-424-6500
COVID-19 regulations for The Woodlands independent living communities
There are currently no COVID-19 protocols for independent living communities in Montgomery County, Texas, but general guidelines may vary according to the individual community. Typically, the county recommends people follow guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Montgomery County continues to provide general information and resources for residents online.
Vaccinations.
It is not mandatory to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in Texas. According to Executive Order GA-40, people cannot be required to get the vaccine if they have objections.
Masking.
Individuals who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms or test positive are advised to wear a mask in public indoor settings. Executive Order GA-38 prohibits governmental entities and officials from requiring masks to be worn.
Quarantining.
Regardless of vaccination status, people infected with COVID-19 are recommended to self-isolate. Those who feel unwell and suspect they have contracted COVID-19 should also isolate themselves until they receive a negative test result.
Get to know independent living in The Woodlands
Types of independent living in The Woodlands
The Woodlands is a coveted residential area within the Houston metropolitan area, well-known for its affluent and welcoming community. Independent living in this region boasts several amenities, such as shared spaces, salons, art studios, woodworking shops, and complimentary transportation.
Easy access to different levels of care
Combined care facilities that offer a range of care services, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, have several benefits for care seekers. In The Woodlands, half of the independent living facilities in our listings are part of more extensive care communities. With combo assisted living, independent living, and memory care facilities, you can easily access different levels of care in one location. This eliminates the need to move from one facility to another, reducing the stress and anxiety of moving.
Community-focused
Community living for seniors provides access to amenities and activities that promote social interaction, physical activity, and cognitive stimulation, all of which can positively affect overall well-being. Expect independent living in The Woodlands to offer community-focused amenities like:
- game rooms
- theater rooms
- billiards lounges
- swimming pools
- fitness centers
- arts and crafts centers
- cafes or bistros
From more luxury options to cozier locales, independent living communities offer a variety of floor plans, such as studio, one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments, and nearby attractions, such as shopping centers, churches, golf courses, parks, coffee shops, and more. Many rooms feature
- full kitchens or kitchenettes
- private balconies or patios
- walk-in closets
- emergency systems
- Carpeting
- grab bars
Accessibility features make sure that residents can enjoy their retirement to the fullest and have peace of mind about their safety.
Independent living in the surrounding The Woodlands suburbs
In addition to the existing facilities in The Woodlands, a variety of care options are available for seniors within a larger 25-mile radius. This includes eight stand-alone independent living facilities, providing seniors the freedom to live independently with the added convenience of amenities and social activities.
For those who require some assistance with daily living activities, there are two combo assisted living/independent living facilities. These facilities offer the same amenities and activities as independent living facilities but also help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Six combo assisted living/independent living/memory care facilities are available within a 25-mile radius for seniors with memory care needs. These facilities provide specialized care for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s, offering independent living and assisted living services. These are progressive housing options, allowing residents to age in place.
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Unfamiliar with The Woodlands? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in The Woodlands
Median annual income for The Woodlands seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in The Woodlands
St. Luke’s Health-Lakeside Hospital
St. Luke’s Health-Lakeside Hospital is part of the St. Luke’s Health network and is home to an acclaimed stroke center. It has also been recognized by U.S. News and World Report as a high performer for hip fractures and back surgeries.
Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital
Houston Methodist is a comprehensive medical center that offers advanced health care services. It has been recognized as a high performer in stroke care, hip injuries, COPD, and pneumonia by U.S. News and World Report.
HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe
HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe is committed to delivering excellent patient-centered care and has been recognized as a high performer in treating various health conditions, such as heart attacks, heart failure, diabetes, kidney failure, stroke care, and COPD. The hospital has also received awards for patient safety and quality and is accredited by The Joint Commission.
Transportation for seniors in The Woodlands
The Woodlands is a community that prioritizes green spaces and walkability, but most residents still rely on cars for transportation. However, for those who cannot or prefer not to drive, 92% of our partner independent living facilities offer complimentary transportation. You can get at-cost transportation at 46% of our partner facilities. There are also several public transportation options available.
The Woodlands Township Transit offers several transportation services, including The Town Center Trolley, The Woodlands Express, and ADA Paratransit. The trolley service runs every 10-15 minutes along a 4.1-mile route, while The Woodlands Express offers affordable transportation on weekdays to destinations like the Texas Medical Center and the central business district of Houston.
ADA Paratransit is a shared ride, curb-to-curb option for ADA-eligible passengers who cannot use the trolley service. There are also nonprofit and private transport options specifically for seniors, such as:
- Interfaith of The Woodlands provides demand-response transportation services through volunteer drivers to individuals 62 years and over enrolled in the program for local health care appointments, grocery store visits, and social activities.
- Meals on Wheels’ Senior Rides program offers curb-to-curb transportation services with no trip restrictions for individuals 60 years and over or those with proof of disability to doctor’s appointments or the Social Security office.
- Aging in Place – The Woodlands is a membership program that can connect members to practical support services and social networks.
- Bryant Transportation Service offers ridesharing and subscription services to individuals 65 years and over within Harris, Fort Bend, Galveston, Montgomery, and Waller Counties.
- Agape Medical Transport provides fixed routes, ridesharing, and subscription services to individuals over 65 within Harris and Montgomery Counties.
The scores provided below indicate the level of walkability and bikeability in The Woodlands. These scores are out of 100 and are determined based on several factors, including the area’s density, transportation system, availability of walking routes, and biking infrastructure.[07]
Walk Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in The Woodlands
The Woodlands is an area where people prioritize spending time outside in the balmy Texas weather, making it ideal for seniors who love hiking, being in nature, and enjoying the scenery.
George Mitchell Nature Preserve provides around 1,700 acres of forest protection, hiking, biking, and scenic paths along the lake with access to the extended Spring Creek Nature Trail. In addition, The Woodlands Waterway provides opportunities to enjoy the water, with Riva Row Boat House and Lakes Edge Boat House offering kayak rentals, paddleboards, and water bikes. Swan boats and elliptical stand-up paddleboards are also available at Riva Row Boat House, and Lake Paloma offers self-serve kayak rentals. For a unique experience, book a swan boat at The Woodlands Mall and explore The Waterway after a day of shopping.
Speaking of shopping, Market Street is a unique shopping experience with over 90 stores and restaurants in an open-air main street environment. The adjacent Central Park hosts various events and live music performances, making it a lifestyle center for the community. The Woodlands Mall is another option, boasting over 160 stores and restaurants. The Lawn at The Woodlands Mall also hosts outdoor events, such as movies and live music.
Music lovers will also have plenty to do. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is an outdoor amphitheater with an impressive lineup of concerts and performing arts events throughout the year. Waterway Nights and Rock the Row are free concert series that take place during the spring and summer, featuring local and regional bands playing various genres of music. Another option is Concerts in the Park, a family-friendly event held on Sundays during the spring and fall at Northshore Park. It welcomes picnic baskets, coolers, blankets, and lawn chairs.
Woodlands Online is a hub of community resources and information for the area, offering various services and features. It has a dedicated events page for seniors that lists upcoming activities, such as pickleball, cornhole tournaments, game nights, and festivals.
Of course, taking a trip to nearby Houston is a popular activity for The Woodlands residents. Sports fans can go see the Astros play baseball, the Rockets play basketball, the Texans play football, or Dynamo FC play soccer, among other teams and sports.
While in the city, enjoy the variety of cuisine Houston has to offer, from traditional Mexican and authentic Texas barbecue to fresh gumbo and Thai fusion. Seniors can experience the culture the city has to offer in the Houston Museum District, home to The Menil Collection, Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Natural Science, and of course, the Space Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Landing at Woodland Lakes, Watercrest at Kingwood and Watermere at Woodland Lakes are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near The Woodlands, TX. 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 The Woodlands is $3,995 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.
Texas Health and Human Services. (March 1, 2021). Appendix XXXIII, Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities Information.
U.S News and World Report. (n.d.). St. Luke’s Health-Lakeside Hospital.
U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital.
U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe.
Walk Score. (2023). The Woodlands.
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