Tucson, Arizona, has excellent nursing home and senior care community options for its resident seniors. Many assume the term “nursing home” is simply an assisted living or senior living community, when in fact, nursing homes — or skilled nursing facilities — are distinct from other senior care types. Nursing homes tend to provide a level of medical care just below a hospital and are primarily for people recovering from an illness or medical procedure, or those in need of hospice. Keep in mind, however, that most people looking for senior living don’t need this type of 24/7 medical care and can find a better fit in an assisted living or memory care community.
Most importantly, nursing homes are not the only option for receiving skilled nursing services. Many of our partner assisted living facilities have access to on-site skilled nursing care for current residents in need of rehabilitation or hospice. These on-site nursing care services provide the same medical care as nursing homes but in a less clinical, more residential environment. A Place for Mom partners with 47 such assisted living and memory care communities that provide on-site skilled nursing care in Tucson, AZ.
Regardless of the type of care you or your loved one needs, you can find what you’re looking for in Tucson. A Goldilocks town, Tucson’s warm and sunny weather, reasonable cost of living, and access to senior living options make it just right for many seniors.
10 Best Nursing Homes in Tucson, AZ
Tucson, Arizona, has excellent nursing home and senior care community options for its resident seniors. Many assume the term “nursing home” is simply an assisted living or senior living community, when in fact, nursing homes — or skilled nursing facilities — are distinct from other senior care types. Nursing homes tend to provide a level of medical care just below a hospital and are primarily for people recovering from an illness or medical procedure, or those in need of hospice. Keep in mind, however, that most people looking for senior living don’t need this type of 24/7 medical care and can find a better fit in an assisted living or memory care community.Read more
Most importantly, nursing homes are not the only option for receiving skilled nursing services. Many of our partner assisted living facilities have access to on-site skilled nursing care for current residents in need of rehabilitation or hospice. These on-site nursing care services provide the same medical care as nursing homes but in a less clinical, more residential environment. A Place for Mom partners with 47 such assisted living and memory care communities that provide on-site skilled nursing care in Tucson, AZ.
Regardless of the type of care you or your loved one needs, you can find what you’re looking for in Tucson. A Goldilocks town, Tucson’s warm and sunny weather, reasonable cost of living, and access to senior living options make it just right for many seniors.
Nursing Homes Facilities near Tucson, AZ
My friend is a vegetarian and they promised to accommodate that but once he moved in grilled cheese was his go to option. After complaining he finally (3 weeks into his stay) met with Asst. Chef and since...
My loved one has only been here a short time. She is just here for rehab. She loves the people, and they are very responsive. If she squeezes for assistance they are there immediately. They have been working...
I am shocked to see a bad review written for Lynda's Courtyard. They are incredible with my mom. She was in a nightmare rehab facility beforehand. Here at Lynda's, it's 10 residents only, ensuring proper...
The friendliness of the staff members there has really stood out to us and the community is always kept clean. The staff go out of their way to help the clients who are staying there. Anytime someone needs...
My mom loves to tell everyone how much she loves Fairmount Assisted Living and Memory Care. She and my dad were able to move in together, and thankfully she had the understanding support of the chaplain and...
The staff is extremely caring and always made the time to care for the patient needs. The facility is a little older but the care that was provided, well made up for it. The therapy department is wonderful...
Our free advisors can help
- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
- Evaluate pricing
My brother spent the last month of his life at Plum Tree House (one of the Groves 6 houses), and for all of our family, it was by far the most positive experience of the last 6 months of his illness. The...
This is a wonderful home for my Mom. It is a hard decision to make for family and our parents. The staff understands that and were so caring and understanding with all of our emotions. This place is...
This is a smaller community and the staff are great. The food is good and if you get there early enough they have a good variety of choices. They offer several card games such as poker, bridge and pinochle....
I liked that this community advised that they would accept medicaid if my loved one ever needs to use it. The staff and the residents look happy. They only things she was not happy with was that she only...
I read the two reviews and those reviews are outdated and don't reflect the Amber Lights my parents are in currently. Yes, it can be a little shocking when you see the cost of this senior living community...
What families are saying about nursing homes in Tucson
Recent reviews for nursing homes in Tucson
Brookdale Oro Valley
Bee Hive Homes Of Green Valley
Avista Tucson
Costs of nursing homes in the Tucson area
Skilled nursing care is considerably more expensive than other types of senior care, regardless of whether a senior receives it in a nursing home or a senior living facility. Because skilled nursing requires a higher level of medical care and oversight, it comes with a higher price tag. According to Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey, a Tucson nursing home costs about $6,601 a month.[02] This is slightly under the national average and includes room and board as well as care.
Seniors who don’t need 24/7 medical care will pay a lower fee for their senior living. Assisted living in Tucson is almost half the cost of skilled nursing care, at an average of $3,737 a month.[01] Memory care is similar at $4,333 a month for room, board, and care services. The costs of all senior care types in Tucson, including skilled nursing care, are below national averages and maintain Tucson’s reputation as a more affordable option for senior care.
The figures in the charts below are the average costs for senior care homes in Tucson, before any additional fees for amenities or care services. These figures are meant to be a helpful comparison between senior care homes in Tucson and the surrounding areas.
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Tucson, AZ vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Tucson, AZ vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Tucson vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Nursing Homes in Tucson, AZ by room type
Average cost of Nursing Homes in Tucson over time
How people pay for a nursing home in Tucson
Because some skilled nursing services can be covered with public assistance, most families look to pay for their skilled nursing care with a mix of public assistance and private funds. Medicaid, Medicare, and veterans benefits can help cover some of the costs of skilled nursing care, but most families need to use some private funds as well.
We know that careful planning is one step towards keeping the right senior living communities within grasp, so we’ve gathered information about how to use private funds, veterans benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare to pay for your or your loved one’s nursing home or senior care needs.
Retirement accounts are a common way to pay for senior living but certainly aren’t the only private method. Many families also ask if life insurance can be used to pay for senior living. While it depends on the policy, individuals may be able to cash out their life insurance plan and use those funds to pay. Read on to learn about some other ways that families keep senior living affordable.
About 14,877 veterans in Tucson are over 65 years old, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
About 43% of veterans in Tucson are over 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
The Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services employs professional Veteran Benefits Counselors (or VBCs) to provide remote benefits counseling. VBCs help veterans identify which benefits they’re eligible for and can help veterans as they walk through the application process. Tucson veterans can set up a virtual appointment with a VBC by calling 602-535-1215.
The Tucson Vet Center is the local resource center for veterans and their families in Pima County. In addition to offering benefits counseling, it also provides counseling services to veterans and their loved ones, all at no cost to the veteran. Many of these services are available over telehealth or in person. Calling the Tucson Vet Center is the best way to access these services.
How to use veterans benefits to cover senior living costs
The VA Pension, the Aid and Attendance benefit, and the Housebound benefit can all be used to fund senior care costs. While the Aid and Attendance benefit can be used to pay for anything that improves the veteran’s quality of life, the Housebound benefit can only be used to pay for care received in the home.
The Aid and Attendance benefit
The Aid and Attendance benefit is money added to the VA pension and can be used to pay for anything that increases the quality of a disabled veteran’s life. This means it can be used to pay for both care and rent in any senior living setting, including nursing homes, assisted living communities, or memory care facilities. To be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a veteran must first qualify for the VA pension by meeting the following criteria:
- Have an honorable discharge
- Meet low-income status
- Be 65+ or disabled
- Serve at least 90 days of active duty, and at least one day of active duty during wartime
To qualify for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a veteran must first qualify for the VA pension, be enrolled in VA health care, and also meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Need daily assistance for some activities of daily living
- Be bedbound if not receiving proper treatment
- Already live in a nursing home or assisted living facility
- Have a qualifying disability
- Have very limited eyesight
The Housebound benefit
Some veterans choose to receive their care from home instead of in a nursing home or an assisted living or memory care facility. These veterans can use the Housebound benefit to pay for care within their home, including skilled nursing care. Veterans typically work with a home care agency to coordinate their home health care services.
One thing to note is that if a veteran receives the Housebound benefit, they can’t also use the Aid and Attendance benefit. And unlike the Aid and Attendance benefit, the Housebound benefit is meant to pay for in-home care for veterans.
Veteran nursing homes in Tucson
The Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services operates the Arizona State Veteran Home – Tucson. This 120-bed nursing home is one of the newest veteran nursing homes in Arizona. Before gaining admission to this home, veterans must be in need of skilled nursing care according to a VA physician.
Veterans who live in Tucson’s veteran home can expect a private room, restaurant-style dining, and exceptional short-term and long-term care. According to U.S. News and World Report, the Arizona State Veteran Home – Tucson is above average for patient care. They report the following:
- Lower than the national average for hospitalizations
- Lower than the national average for the use of antipsychotics
- Lower than the national average for emergency room visits
- An above-average number of weekend staff members
Veterans can begin the admissions process by calling the Arizona State Veteran Home – Tucson. There may be a waitlist, but a representative at the home or through the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services can help you navigate the admissions process and decide what to do if you do find yourself on a waitlist. The local chapter of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) provides assistance for veterans navigating the benefits application process. A similar organization, the local Disabled American Veterans (DAV) chapter, offers similar services for veterans who became disabled during their time in the military.
Resources for Tucson veterans
Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
3839 N. Third St.
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Phone: 602-255-3373
Tucson Vet Center
2525 E. Broadway Blvd., Suite 100
Tucson, AZ 85716
Phone: 520-882-0333
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 549
8424 Old Spanish Trail
Tucson, AZ 85710
Phone: 520-790-4626
Email: vfwpost549@gmail.com
Disabled Veterans of America (DAV) Chapter 4
4145 W. Ina Road
Suite 131
Tucson, AZ 85741
Phone: 520-791-9067
Email: chapter4@davchapter4tucson.org
Arizona State Veteran Home Tucson
555 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 520-638-2150
Arizona’s Medicaid program is called The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (or AHCCCS). The AHCCCS is regarded as one of the most organized and generous Medicaid programs in the nation. In 2022, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services praised the state program’s initiative to address preventable health crises by providing funding for affordable housing.
The AHCCCS provides health insurance without monthly premiums to low-income individuals. Seniors are eligible if they make under the monthly income limit in Arizona, which is $1,133 for one person and $1,526 for a couple. Pima County residents can choose from a few different plans on the AHCCCS website, but all plans cover the following services:
- Immunizations and injections
- Hospital care
- Dental, vision, and hearing care
- Dialysis
- Emergency care
- Prescriptions (unless they’re already covered by Medicare)
- Labs and X-rays
- Specialist care, like ophthalmology or dermatology
Will Medicaid pay for my skilled nursing care?
Seniors wanting to use Medicaid to pay for skilled nursing care will enroll in the AHCCCS’ subprogram, called the Arizona Long Term Care Systems (ALTCS, pronounced ALL-tecs). This Medicaid program covers rent, meals, and care services in any Medicaid-approved facility providing skilled nursing care. Whether a senior is living in a traditional nursing home or an assisted living or memory care facility with skilled nursing on-site, ALTCS will cover all fees associated with skilled nursing care for eligible seniors.
Financial eligibility for ALTCS is also less strict than for AHCCCS. Seniors who qualify for ALTCS can’t have a monthly income of more than $2,742, and a registered nurse or a social worker must determine a need for skilled nursing care. Seniors making more than the income limit may still be eligible for ALTCS if they set up a Special Treatment Trust. If you think you may be in this situation, mention setting up a Special Treatment Trust with the person helping you apply.
Most seniors may still be asked to pay for part of their nursing care while on ALTCS. This is called Share of Cost, and the amount differs for each person depending on their total financial assets and monthly income.
Will Medicaid pay for my assisted living or memory care?
Seniors who only need personal care from their assisted living or memory care facility can enroll in an AHCCCS or ALTCS plan available to Pima County residents. While ALTCS is technically for people with a disability or in need of skilled nursing care, the AHCCCS has a fairly wide definition of what a disability can be.
Many assisted living services, like personal care and memory care services, fall under the AHCCCS’ skilled nursing care umbrella. While this is not a guarantee that ALTCS will cover a senior’s assisted living costs, seniors in Arizona should apply for ALTCS first because it covers more services and has a higher income limit.
Below, you can find resources about Arizona’s Medicaid program, including information about the Arizona ombudsman program run through the Pima Council on Aging. An ombudsman is a public official who investigates and handles complaints about state programs like Medicaid. If you have complaints or concerns about the Arizona Medicaid programs, you can contact the Arizona ombudsman, and they’ll help mediate or resolve the issue.
Tucson resident Medicaid resources
Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System
801 E. Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
AHCCCS Phone: 602-417-4000
ALTCS Phone: 888-621-6880
Tucson Medicaid office
316 W. Fort Lowell Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85705
Phone: 520-638-2270
Medicare is a federal program that covers short-term medically necessary health care costs for American citizens and their spouses who are over 65 and have paid Medicare taxes. Medicare won’t cover long-term stays in a skilled nursing facility, however Medicare will cover short-term stays at skilled nursing facilities or rehabilitation facilities, such as a two-week stay to recover from a medically necessary surgery. The care services that Medicare will cover include the following:
- Rent and meals in a semi-private room in a Medicare-approved nursing home
- Medical care
- An ambulance ride to the nearest hospital
- Rehab therapy
- Some medications
By short-term, we mean that Medicare will pay 100% of the costs of skilled nursing care for the first 20 days, some of the care on days 21 – 100, and none of the care past day 100. From days 21 – 100, seniors will pay a daily $200 copayment.
What does Medicare not cover?
Medicare will not cover long-term stays at a skilled nursing facility or any care besides skilled nursing services. Medicare will not cover the following:
- Dental and vision care
- Hearing aids
- Personal care, such as bathing
- Stays in a skilled nursing facility that last longer than 100 days
To find out if a care service or prescription is covered by Medicare, use the Medicare coverage portal. This page allows you to search for individual tests, prescription medications, or procedures to see if they’re covered by Medicare. You can also dial 2-1-1 to connect to your local Social Security office which can help you navigate your specific questions.
Will Medicare cover my assisted living or memory care community?
Medicare will not pay for your rent, meals, or personal care services in your assisted living or memory care facility. However, if you have a necessary medical need while living in assisted living or memory care, such as a heart attack, knee replacement surgery, or an organ transplant, Medicare will pay for the procedure and the rehabilitation for up to 20 days free of charge, and days 21 – 100 incur a $200 daily copayment.
Paying Medicare copays with AHCCCS
Some Arizona residents may be eligible to have Arizona’s Medicaid program, the Arizona Health Care Costs Containment System (AHCCCS), pay for their Medicare premiums. To qualify, the senior must be an Arizona resident and meet the monthly income limit of $1,133 for a single person or $1,526 for a couple. This program is called the “Help with Paying for Medicare Costs Only” through the AHCCCS.
More Medicare resources
Social Security Administration – Tucson South
88 W. 38th St.
Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 800-772-1213
Pima Council on Aging
8467 E. Broadway St.
Tucson, AZ 85710
Phone: 520-790-7262
COVID-19 regulations for Tucson nursing homes
Tucson’s nursing homes and other long-term care facilities follow Arizona’s state guidelines — called the Arizona Together program — to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on residents, staff members, and visitors. According to this program, residents should mask when sick and test if exposed to COVID-19.
The Pima County Long-Term Care Resource Center provides at-home tests, vaccinations, and personal protective equipment, like gloves and masks, to local nursing homes and assisted living communities. While Arizona is behind other states in vaccination rates among nursing home residents, Pima County reports that 50% of local nursing home residents are vaccinated against COVID-19. The county reports weekly data about vaccination rates, deaths, and infections on its COVID-19 Data Reports page.
Arizona nursing homes and other senior care types maintain resident freedoms and are required to provide a high quality of care. Caregivers in Arizona’s nursing homes go through certified training programs, and the facilities themselves go through yearly inspections to retain licensure. As in many states, caregivers must be over 18 (and caregiver aides must be over 16), and all workers must pass a background check.
In 2022, Arizona strengthened requirements for caregivers at skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities. According to this new law, people with felonies due to violence or fraud are not permitted to work in any Arizona nursing home or long-term care facility.
What are the federal regulations for nursing homes?
Nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities are regulated by the federal government. Many of the services offered in skilled nursing facilities can be paid for with federal programs, like Medicare and Medicaid, which is why the government takes a greater responsibility in their oversight. The Code of Federal Regulations for Long-Term Care Facilities outlines the basic requirements for skilled nursing units, including the following:
- Skilled nursing facilities must keep residents free from any kind of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
- Facilities must provide residents access to quality of life and care.
- Nursing homes must provide high-quality, nutritious meals to residents.
The nursing home search tool on Medicare.gov provides a public report card for every skilled nursing facility in the country. You can find the results of their last inspection, recent violations and complaints, and general information about the facility.
What are Arizona’s regulations for nursing homes?
Arizona nursing homes are also regulated and licensed by the state through the Bureau of Long-Term Care Licensing. Compared to other states, Arizona has thorough requirements for all of its senior care communities, including nursing homes. The Bureau of Long-Term Care Licensing fully outlines the rights of all nursing home residents in its Consumer’s Guide to Nursing Homes, including the following:
- Medicare or Medicaid recipients cannot be asked to pay a cash deposit or prepayment before receiving treatment at a skilled nursing facility.
- Residents of skilled nursing facilities cannot be given chemical or physical restraints for any nonmedical purpose.
- Skilled nursing facility residents have a right to privacy and confidentiality.
- All residents are allowed to submit complaints without restraint or retaliation.
- Residents are permitted to engage in religious and social activities.
- Couples who live in the same facility must be allowed to share a room.
- Residents of nursing homes must be allowed to manage their own finances.
- All nursing home residents should be allowed to choose their health care providers.
Nursing homes in Arizona undergo state inspections about once a year, and you can find the results of these inspections on the Long-Term Care Provider Search Form. You can search for communities by name, ZIP code, address, or care type.
How Arizona regulates other senior care types
The Bureau of Residential Licensing regulates assisted living facilities, board and care homes, and memory care facilities in Arizona. After receiving an initial license, these senior care communities also go through annual inspections. All inspection results for these care types are publicly available on the same AZDHS Provider Search Form.
According to Article 8: Assisted Living Facilities from the Department of Health Services, all Arizona assisted living and memory care facilities must uphold the following resident rights:
- All residents should be free from any kind of abuse.
- The resident must be informed of their health care plan and how to make a complaint, and cannot be retaliated against or prevented from making a complaint.
- Residents should have access to their own medical records during normal business hours.
- Assisted living residents can request to move to a different room.
- All residents should have access to privacy for their personal needs.
- Residents can choose their own health care providers and pharmacy.
Also according to Article 8, caregivers of Arizona assisted living and memory care communities must be 18 years or older and complete an approved training program. All caregivers must also complete a first aid and CPR training and be up to date on their Tuberculosis vaccine.
Arizona Department of Health contact information
Arizona Department of Health Services
150 N. 18th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-542-1025
Vaccinations. Staff members and residents are encouraged but not required to become vaccinated against COVID-19.
Masking. Staff members are required to mask when working with nursing home residents, and residents and visitors are encouraged to mask when sick.
Quarantining. All long-term care facilities in Tucson follow federal guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and allow visitors at any time, regardless of vaccination status.
Get to know senior living in Tucson
What to expect from nursing homes in Tucson
Tucson is just right for many seniors. Beautiful weather, a large number of senior living options, and a zesty culture make Tucson appealing to plenty of people over 65. Arizona’s senior-friendly tax laws also keep Tucson within reach for many seniors.
Despite being smaller than its Arizona cousin, Phoenix, Tucson pulls its weight when it comes to senior living options. Skilled nursing facilities in Tucson are well-established and have plenty of resources. Assisted living and memory care communities also offer a wide range of services and amenities.
Whether they’re moving in from out of state or staying put, most seniors can find a senior living option that’s just right for them in Tucson. In this section, we’ll go over the differences between skilled nursing and assisted living. Then, we’ll explain what skilled nursing care is really like in Tucson. We also add valuable information about other care types and some fun extras, like great senior-friendly activities.
What’s the difference between skilled nursing homes and assisted living?
The term “nursing home” is sometimes used to refer to any senior living community. But nursing homes are actually a specific type of rehabilitation facility most often used by people recovering from a medical procedure or an illness. Nursing homes provide a skilled nursing level of care associated with hospitals, not assisted living communities. Many seniors who don’t need round-the-clock medical help find a better fit in assisted living or memory care.
Also, nursing homes are not the only option for receiving skilled nursing services. In Tucson, A Place for Mom partners with 47 assisted living and memory care facilities that also offer access to skilled nursing care on site.[01] These communities come in all shapes and sizes, including stand-alone nursing homes, traditional assisted living communities, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), and board and care homes. Read on to learn what it’s like to live in each of these communities as a senior in need of skilled nursing care.
What are traditional nursing homes like in Tucson, Arizona?
Traditional, stand-alone nursing homes in Tucson provide exceptional care for a variety of clientele. Some seniors may need a two-week stay to recover from surgery, while others may need longer-term medical care. Regardless of the length of the stay, seniors in Tucson’s nursing homes have access to skilled nursing care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
They also provide social services. All nursing homes in Tucson provide a case manager to advocate for each client and make sure they’re discharged at the right time. High standards reflect the higher cost of nursing homes in Tucson, which is $6,601 a month on average, according to Genworth’s most recent Cost of Care Survey.[02]
Many of these stand-alone nursing homes offer private or semi-private rooms and meals. Lifestyle amenities like outdoor courtyards and beauty salons are also common. Far from the more institutional aesthetic of nursing homes in the past, nursing homes in Tucson now tend to be more homelike and create a warm, pleasant environment as part of the healing process.
What are the assisted living and memory care options in Tucson, Arizona?
Assisted living and memory care in Tucson can be organized into three types: traditional stand-alone communities, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), and board and care homes. Tucson has a roughly equal split between these three. This gives seniors a higher chance of finding a great option that suits their budget and their needs (and many of their wants, too).
Both traditional assisted living communities and CCRCs often have skilled nursing wings or access to nursing care services in the resident’s unit. However, these assisted living and memory care facilities don’t typically accept new residents in immediate need of 24/7 skilled nursing care. On-site skilled nursing services are instead reserved for current residents who grow to need such services in the event of surgery, illness, or hospice, so that they won’t need to move if their needs change.
Because assisted living and memory care don’t immediately offer the kind of medical services as nursing homes, they cost about half as much monthly. Residents receiving skilled nursing care at these communities often pay for their skilled nursing with additional fees, which can become very expensive. Traditional assisted living communities and CCRCs use a different payment structure to account for skilled nursing costs.
Features of assisted living and memory care facilities in Tucson, Arizona
Most traditional assisted living and memory care communities provide some form of skilled nursing care, often in a skilled nursing wing or through access to on-site nursing care services in the resident’s unit. It’s important to note that skilled nursing care is not included in the monthly payment and instead is added on as an additional charge. Skilled nursing care is expensive, and these additional costs can add up very quickly.
Traditional assisted living and memory care communities offer semi-private or private rooms and restaurant-style dining. They also have design features with their residents’ safety and general well-being in mind, like shower rails. Memory care communities in Tucson tend to be connected to assisted living communities but often have a higher level of security and activities that support seniors with dementia. Not all assisted living communities have 24-hour awake staff, but most memory care communities do, and both provide personal care, maintenance, housekeeping, and meals.
Features of continuing care retirement communities in Tucson, Arizona
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) in Tucson are often newer and larger than their traditional assisted living or memory care counterparts. These communities usually include assisted living, memory care, independent living, and skilled nursing wings.
They tend to be a bit more expensive than other options because they offer seniors the opportunity to stay in the same community at a fixed rate even as their care needs change. These communities also tend to be more resort-like with many on-site services. Most CCRCs also have higher-end amenities that appeal to the range of residents, like luxurious pools and in-house bars.
CCRCs have a different payment structure than traditional assisted living communities. A large admissions fee, often more than $100,000, is the norm for CCRCs. However, the admissions fee offsets future skilled nursing care costs for the resident. This means after the initial fee is paid, monthly costs tend to stay about the same even when the resident needs expensive skilled nursing care.
Board and care homes in Tucson, Arizona
Board and care homes offer the same type of care as assisted living communities but in residential homes. They provide the same care services and meals within a more private, homelike environment. These communities usually have up to eight residents, and caregivers often live in the home with the residents.
Given their size, these homes don’t offer skilled nursing care as often as other senior living options in Tucson. However, many board and care home residents employ home health care agencies to provide skilled nursing care while they reside in the home. Home health care can be less expensive than skilled nursing care in a CCRC or assisted living facility because caregivers are usually paid by the hour. However, home health care stops being cost-effective if the senior needs round-the-clock skilled nursing care.
Also, due to their smaller size, board and care homes in Tucson are considerably less expensive than traditional assisted living communities or CCRCs. Tucson has about as many board and care homes as traditional assisted living communities, which means there are more cost-effective options for assisted living in Tucson than in many other cities.
Tucson is a Goldilocks town for seniors
Tucson’s charm is in the details. And for many seniors, the first detail they cite is the climate. At just under 2,500 feet, Tucson is more than 1,000 feet higher than Phoenix and has a milder climate to show for it. Summers can still top 100 degrees, but in general, being outside in Tucson is pleasant all year round. But it’s not just the nice weather: Tucson’s scenic mountain ranges and famous sunsets can be enjoyed just as easily from a back porch as they can from a mountaintop.
Cost of living is top of mind for most seniors, and Tucson is just under the national average for most cost-of-living standards, including the cost of skilled nursing and assisted living care. With a population of about 500,000, Tucson is also more manageable for seniors who may tire of the noise of a larger city but want to maintain a connection to cultural activities.
As Tucson is home to the University of Arizona and a thriving art scene, locals have no trouble finding cultural and intellectual pursuits. Because of the robust social programs at most senior living communities, staying connected and busy is easy even for seniors who stay home most of the day.
Nursing homes in the surrounding Tucson suburbs
Green Valley is a large retirement community about 30 minutes south of Tucson. It has a population of over 22,000 and is growing due to its status as one of the best places to retire in the United States. Although over 80% of the residents are over 65, the town has a school system, public parks, and shopping centers.[03]
With so many seniors, Green Valley has a uniquely high concentration of senior living communities, a virtually nonexistent crime rate, and a lower cost of living than Tucson. Green Valley has plenty of nursing home options, most of which are traditional nursing homes and CCRCs. While not as culturally vibrant as Tucson, Green Valley has plenty of community-organized activities, and many seniors enjoy living full-time in this serene little hamlet.
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with Tucson? Highlights for seniors
There are 82,580 seniors over 65 living in Tucson, Arizona, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
15% of Tucson’s population is 65 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
The median annual income for seniors over 65 in Tucson is $53,285, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Health care for seniors in Tucson
Tucson, Arizona, has a good number of health care options, and one of the best hospitals in the United States.
TMC Healthcare-Tucson
TMC Healthcare-Tucson is one of the best hospitals in the United States, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s both a general medical and surgical center and performs highly in the following areas (among others): cardiology and heart surgery, geriatrics, and colon cancer surgery.
5301 E. Grant Road
Tucson, AZ 85712
Phone: 520-327-5461
Northwest Medical Center-Tucson
According to U.S. News and World Report, Northwest Medical Center-Tucson is one of the best hospitals in the city. With 300 beds, this facility has high outcomes for multiple procedures, including heart attack care, kidney failure, and prostate cancer surgery.
6200 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85741
Phone: 520-742-9000
Banner-University Medical Center Tucson
The Banner-University Medical Center Tucson is a high-performing private nonprofit hospital on the University of Arizona’s campus.
2800 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 520-874-2000
Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital
Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital is a private, for-private institution with 449 beds. It specializes in neurology, neurosurgery, and ophthalmology, as well as acute care.
350 N. Wilmont Road
Tucson, AZ 85711
Phone: 520-873-3000
Transportation for seniors in Tucson
Like most Western cities, Tucson is best navigated by car. However, residents of Tucson’s senior care communities don’t need to worry about driving themselves. This is because almost all of our partnering senior care communities offer transportation services for their residents. Visiting family members can either rent a car or use Tucson’s public transportation system, which is called Sun Tran and includes the Sun Link streetcar, Sun Vans, Sun on Demand, and the Sun Shuttle.
The Sun Tran system is affordable and reliable for seniors and offers a few senior-specific benefits. Some of the perks for seniors on the Sun Tran system are the following:
- Customer service representatives can walk seniors through trip planning.
- Seniors enjoy reduced fees and senior-designated seats right behind the driver.
- Vans have lifts to make boarding easier for guests with limited mobility.
- The Sun Tran system offers a free class for seniors to learn how to use the Sun Tran system.
Information is available on the senior page of the Sun Tran website, or by calling 520-206-8881.
Senior activities in Tucson
While Tucson has an outdoorsy reputation, there’s plenty to do for seniors who may not be looking to hike all day. For one, the main attraction of Tucson — its geography — can be enjoyed from almost anywhere. Magenta sunsets, desert bluffs, and a wide open sky are available year-round from anywhere in the city. But Tucson is no slouch when it comes to senior-friendly cultural entertainment. Read on to learn how Tucson can pique your interest.
Senior centers in Tucson
Each of Tucson’s three senior centers has excellent programming. With a Senior Activities Card, seniors can gain entrance to any of the senior center’s amenities and all of the educational, physical, and social events on the activities calendar at no cost. All of the senior centers are outfitted with a full kitchen available for members, public Wi-Fi, and gyms. Activities range from social hours and ceramics to beginner Spanish classes.
Each year, the City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department also hosts a Senior Olympics. Seniors can compete in events like cribbage, leisure walking, archery, and the horseshoe toss, or they can cheer on their friends from the stands. Seniors can register to participate on the Senior Olympic website.
Tucson’s senior centers partner with the local Catholic Social Services to offer healthy meals at no cost to seniors and their partners in the Tucson area. Seniors should preregister for their meals by calling the center of their choice on the Senior Meals Program brochure. These meals are available Monday through Friday, but availability may be limited during the holidays.
The Pima Meals on Wheels program offers similar services, but it brings meals directly to homebound seniors. Seniors can sign up by calling 520-790-7262. Family members can also sign their loved one up for this program. This is a great option for seniors who may be transitioning to senior living in the near future or for seniors recovering from a procedure at home.
Cultural activities in Tucson
The Gaslight Theater is a popular spot for local seniors. Although it’s set in an old saloon, the nightly performances are family-friendly and often very funny. Full dinners are available for purchase at the theater, and a ticket comes with free popcorn. Many senior living facilities take their residents here at least once a year.
For aircraft enthusiasts, The Pima Air and Space Museum is a bucket-list item. With over 400 aircrafts, it’s one of the world’s largest aircraft collections and includes unique items like WWII planes, presidential planes, and a flight simulator. Seniors enjoy discounted admission tickets. It’s a large museum and much of it is outdoors, but Tram Tours are available every day to drive visitors through the acres of fascinating exhibits.
The Mission San Xavier del Bac is a key part of Tucson’s past and makes a great afternoon trip. Tucson has a unique history of being part of four different countries: Spain, Mexico, the Confederacy, and the United States of America. The San Xavier Mission, as it’s also called, continues this history as it now sits on land belonging to the Tohono O’odham Nation. Its interesting background, along with the gilded Spanish colonial architecture in contrast with the bright blue Arizona sky, is well worth the suggested donation fee.
Desert activities
Mostly outside and set on over 90 acres of pristine desert landscape, the Sonoran Desert Museum is an excellent day trip for seniors in the spring and fall months. Learn about Gila monsters, javelinas, and scorpions while exploring the ancient Saguaro cacti groves. The indoor portions of the museum include an art gallery and a natural history exhibit.
Most of the museum, including much of the outdoor area, is wheelchair accessible, and wheelchairs are available to rent for a small fee. Special tours and accommodations for the visually impaired or the hard of hearing are available by request on the museum’s website.
Named after the looming Saguaro cacti that grow wild around Tucson, the Saguaro National Park is part of the Sonoran Desert. While many enjoy hiking through the national park, it can also be enjoyed by car. The Cactus Forest Drive is a short loop with beautiful views of the most scenic parts of the park. Adventurous visitors can hike the Signal Hill Trail to search for petroglyphs from the ancient Hohokam people.
Because of its low light pollution, Tucson is near a few “dark sky zones.” Most nights, residents enjoy crystal clear views of the Milky Way, but even better views are available just outside of town. The Steward Observatory on the University of Arizona’s campus is a testament to Tucson’s long history as an astronomy haven.
Tucson is the only City of Gastronomy in the United States
It would be a mistake to talk about Tucson without mentioning the food. In 2015, Tucson became the first City of Gastronomy in the United States, designated by the international UNESCO Creative Cities’ initiative. It got this title not only because of its excellent restaurants but also because many of these restaurants carry on the distinct culinary legacies of the local Native American and Mexican peoples. For information about food tours and certified City of Gastronomy restaurants, check out the Tucson City of Gastronomy website.
Local guides
Visittucson.org is a great local guide to Tucson and offers up-to-date information about events and activities in the city. It’s run by the Tucson Conventions and Visitors Bureau and covers outdoor opportunities, historical experiences, health and wellness, and much more for residents and their visitors. The annual Gem Shows, Senior Olympic Festival, and wide ranges of musical performances are just some of the many local events you can learn about on this website. It also has information about the best places to stay, from desert camping to luxury resorts and everything in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Tucson, AZ. These Nursing Homes facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Nursing Homes in Tucson is per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Genworth. (2021). Cost of care survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Green Valley CDP [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age of householder by household income in the past 12 months (B19037): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
More questions?
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
- Polo Village, Arizona
- Kleindale, Arizona
- Catalina Foothills, Arizona
- Oracle Foothills Estates, Arizona
- Drexel Heights, Arizona
- Stockham, Arizona
- South Tucson, Arizona
- Polvo, Arizona
- Vandenberg Village, Arizona
- Jaynes, Arizona
- Summit, Arizona
- Tucson Estates, Arizona
- Casas Adobes, Arizona
- Skyline Bel Aire Estates, Arizona
- Rankin, Arizona
- Valley View, Arizona
- Tucson National Estates, Arizona
- Tucson Country Club Estates, Arizona
- Flowing Wells, Arizona
- Valencia West, Arizona