Knoxville, Tennessee is a city rich in history and southern charm, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. In addition to its picturesque surroundings, Knoxville is a welcoming and vibrant community that caters to the unique needs of seniors. With a welcoming culture and exceptional care, Knoxville is the perfect place to find living options for you or the loved one in your life, especially at the city’s several top-quality senior living facilities.
Sometimes called skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes provide both short- and long-term care options for residents. However, if you’re searching for a Knoxville nursing home near you, you might actually be looking for memory care or assisted living. Memory care facilities provide 24/7 specialized care and long-term housing for seniors with memory loss, and assisted living facilities provide support for seniors who are somewhat active, but need help with day-to-day activities.
If you’re looking for this kind of care, A Place for Mom partners with 14 assisted living facilities and 13 memory care facilities within 10 miles of downtown Knoxville. This guide will detail what you and your loved ones can expect from these types of communities, how to pay for them, and what regulations are in place.
So, whether you’re just starting your search or are ready to make a decision, our guide has everything you need to find the best assisted living and memory care facilities in Knoxville. From listings to helpful resources about costs, health care, and transportation, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
10 Best Nursing Homes in Knoxville, TN
Knoxville, Tennessee is a city rich in history and southern charm, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. In addition to its picturesque surroundings, Knoxville is a welcoming and vibrant community that caters to the unique needs of seniors. With a welcoming culture and exceptional care, Knoxville is the perfect place to find living options for you or the loved one in your life, especially at the city’s several top-quality senior living facilities.Read more
Sometimes called skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes provide both short- and long-term care options for residents. However, if you’re searching for a Knoxville nursing home near you, you might actually be looking for memory care or assisted living. Memory care facilities provide 24/7 specialized care and long-term housing for seniors with memory loss, and assisted living facilities provide support for seniors who are somewhat active, but need help with day-to-day activities.
If you’re looking for this kind of care, A Place for Mom partners with 14 assisted living facilities and 13 memory care facilities within 10 miles of downtown Knoxville. This guide will detail what you and your loved ones can expect from these types of communities, how to pay for them, and what regulations are in place.
So, whether you’re just starting your search or are ready to make a decision, our guide has everything you need to find the best assisted living and memory care facilities in Knoxville. From listings to helpful resources about costs, health care, and transportation, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
Nursing Homes Facilities near Knoxville, TN
Little Creek Sanitarium is a special place. This small, long term care facility offers a peaceful environment and quality health services to its residents. My mother was a resident for six years and was...
Beautiful facility with a band new exquisite wing adding 20 suites. Staff is wonderful, caring & attentive. I’ve had experience with other properties who look great in appearance and talk it up in the tour,...
We've had a very good experience with Autumn Care, overall! The facility itself looks very nice, they do a great job of keeping it clean, and there's usually some sort of activity going on for the residents....
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- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
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- What families are saying about nursing homes in Knoxville
- Costs of nursing homes in the Knoxville area
- How people pay for a nursing home in Knoxville
- Understand Tennessee laws and regulations for nursing homes
- Get to know nursing homes in Knoxville
- What to expect from nursing homes in Knoxville
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Knoxville? Here are some highlights for seniors
What families are saying about nursing homes in Knoxville
Recent reviews for nursing homes in Knoxville
The Groves at Oak Ridge
The Pinnacle On Schaeffer in Knoxville, TN
Rain Forest Landings in Knoxville, TN
Costs of nursing homes in the Knoxville area
According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, the average monthly cost of assisted living within our network of partners in Knoxville is $4,481, including care and fees. For memory care, the average is $4,495.[01] With this payment, residents receive holistic care (diabetes, incontinence, memory, and rehabilitative care, to name a few examples) and medication management. Seniors also receive amenities such as wheelchair accessible rooms, chef-prepared meals, and access to common areas where they can socialize.
For a skilled nursing home, the average monthly cost is $3,823.[02] It’s important to note that this price does not include any additional fees and represents only a baseline.
How people pay for a nursing home in Knoxville
It’s all about smart planning when it comes to paying for a nursing home, assisted living or memory care. The good news is that there are a variety of ways to cover the costs, both through private and public means.
One option is private payment. Alternatively, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits are available to veterans and their spouses, while Medicaid and Medicare can provide public aid. By taking advantage of these resources, you can create a financial plan that ensures you or your loved one can receive the care you need.
Private pay methods offer individuals the flexibility to finance their senior care communities using their own resources. This includes income sources such as a personal bank account, stock portfolio, 401(k), or individual retirement account.
With private pay methods, individuals can take control of their senior living expenses, even if they don’t qualify for government programs. Below are additional funding options.
If you are a veteran seeking care in assisted living or memory care within the A Place for Mom network, you should apply for the VA’s Aid and Attendance program. This program can increase funding to your pension and help pay for your stay.
However, the application and acceptance process may be prolonged. To ease the process, we recommend that you connect with a local veteran services officer and veteran service organizations — such as the VFW or American Legion — before applying. These experts, recognized by the VA, will help you with the application and appeals process. The VA has a regional office in Knoxville that provides assistance with benefits applications, too.
Number of veterans who live in Knoxville
About 19% of Knoxville veterans are 75+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Resources for Knoxville veterans
Knox County Veterans Services Office
Knox Central Building
1000 N. Central St.
Knoxville, TN 37917
Phone: 865-215-5645
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
American Legion
5700 Old Rutledge Pike
Knoxville, TN 37924
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
734 N Fourth Ave
Knoxville, TN 37917-6727
Phone: 865-523-7347
Meetings: 1:00 p.m., 4th Sunday of the month
TennCare is Tennessee’s Medicaid program for people with low incomes that’s operated by the Tennessee Department of Human Services. While it does cover room and board in nursing homes, TennCare won’t pay for room and board in assisted living or memory care facilities. However, TennCare CHOICES for Long-Term Care, which is a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program, will help cover medical needs for seniors in assisted living or memory care facilities. Both medical and financial need is considered.
You can apply online through TennCare Connect. You can also apply by phone by calling 855-258-0701 or you can ask for a paper application to be mailed to you.
Applying for TennCare can be a lengthy process. The East Tennessee Agency on Aging and Disability can help guide you. The long-term care ombudsman and advocates at the Office on Aging are also good resources if you have questions or need help.
Knoxville resident Medicaid resources
TennCare Connect
Mail paper applications to:
P.O. Box 305240
Nashville, TN 37230
FAX: 855-315-0669
Phone: 855-258-0701
Department of Human Services (DHS)
2700 Middlebrook Pike
Knoxville, TN 37921
Phone: 865-594-6151
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
East Tennessee Area Agency on Aging & Disability
9111 Cross Park Drive Suite D100
Knoxville, TN 37923
Phone: 865-691-2551
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
502 Deaderick St., 9th Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-925-1552
Knoxville-Knox County Office on Aging
2247 Western Ave.
Knoxville, TN 37921
Phone: 865-524-2786
For people 65 and older, Medicare is their primary health insurance. However, that doesn’t mean it fully funds a nursing home, assisted living, or memory care stay. Custodial costs, essentially room and board, are not covered by Medicare. What is covered, however, are medically necessary things like physical therapy, medical equipment, and some medications.
The exception here is that Medicare will cover a nursing home stay in a Medicare-certified facility for a short period of time if certain conditions are met. This is different from long-term care.
Since there are some costs associated with some parts of Medicare, the four Medicare Savings Programs in Tennessee offer additional help in paying for premiums or copayments for seniors who meet low income requirements. CoverRx is a prescription drug program for people under the age of 65 without pharmacy coverage. It offers over 200 generic medications and certain name-brand drugs, insulin, mental health medications, and naloxone products at affordable copays. The Office of Aging’s Affordable Medicine Options for Seniors (AMOS) program helps seniors connect with the right programs that can help reduce the cost of prescription medications.
The Tennessee Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) offers medical and social care to vulnerable elderly individuals who are eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. A team of health experts coordinates their care, and these services can be received in assisted living or memory care facilities.
You can sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration. There are also organizations, such as the Office on Aging, that will help you through the Tennessee State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), which provides advocacy and benefits counseling. For additional assistance, the Office on Aging has a directory of resources available. You can also contact your local ombudsman for information about long-term care.
Knoxville resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration
9031 Cross Park Drive
Knoxville, TN 37923
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Knoxville’s Office on Aging
2247 Western Ave.
Knoxville, TN 37950
Phone: 865-546-6262
East Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability
408 N. Cedar Bluff Road
Knoxville, TN 37923
Phone: 865-691-2551
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability
502 Deaderick St., 9th Floor
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-925-1552
Understand Tennessee laws and regulations for nursing homes
In Tennessee, all nursing homes must be licensed and regulated by the Board for Licensing Health Care Facilities. This Department of Health regulatory body is responsible for overseeing a range of health care facilities, including hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, memory care, and more.
The regulations for assisted living and memory care (which fall under assisted-care living facilities) cover a broad scope from facility requirements to staffing to care expectations. Some of the regulations include:
- Rooms must be limited to no more than two adults
- Someone must be awake at all times, but there no specific staff to resident ratios
- A care plan must be completed in the first five days to outline the services and help a resident will need
- Residents in assisted living are allowed to handle their own prescription medications, but staff can help them open bottles or read labels
- Comfortable areas for family visits and group activities must be available
- Three meals per day must be provided along with a snack if 14 hours pass between dinner and breakfast the next day
- Provide laundry services for linens and clothing
- Specialized training around caring for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s is required for staff in memory care units
- Uphold the rights of the residents
Nursing homes in Knoxville are required to meet specific staff requirements established by the state of Tennessee. The staffing ratios vary depending on the type of nursing home and the services it provides. Skilled nursing facilities, for instance, must have a registered nurse (RN) on duty at all times, as well as licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in sufficient numbers to meet the needs of the residents.
Long-term care facilities that provide intermediate care must have an RN on duty for at least eight hours each day, as well as LPNs and CNAs in sufficient numbers. Nursing homes that provide custodial care must have an RN or LPN on duty at least once per week, and CNAs in sufficient numbers to meet the needs of the residents. Other regulations include:
- Yearly training for staff in assisting with activities of daily living, patient behavior, safety protocols, and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Diagnoses must be recorded upon patient admission and a care plan must be established after an initial assessment
- People cannot be admitted if they might harm themselves or others
- The nursing home must provide specialized services, such as physical or occupational therapy or speech therapy
- Medication must be stored under lock and key and only administered by certain qualified staff members
- CDC infection control requirements must be met
- Group activities must be provided daily
- A dietician must be in charge of the meal planning, which must include three daily meals and a snack
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are responsible for monitoring nursing homes to ensure they comply with federal regulations as well.
Nursing homes, assisted living, and memory care facilities must also undergo a pre-licensure inspection. Additionally, the Department of Health conducts unannounced inspections of every facility within 15 months of their last inspection and as needed. Inspection reports and licenses can be accessed by the public on the Tennessee Department of Health’s website. Both assisted living and memory care facilities are classified in Tennessee as assisted-care living facilities.
Tennessee Department of Health contact information
TN Department of Health
710 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-741-3111
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Knoxville nursing homes
Tennessee has lifted restrictions on long-term care facilities, but Knoxville offers these recommendations. These regulations are in line with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).[03] The Tennessee Department of Health has an Infection Prevention Team that offers consultations to nursing homes, assisted living, and memory care facilities.
Vaccinations. Vaccines are recommended.
Get to know nursing homes in Knoxville
What to expect from nursing homes in Knoxville
While A Place for Mom does not partner with nursing homes, there are 14 assisted living and 13 memory care facilities in-network within a 10-mile radius of Knoxville’s downtown. There is one standalone memory care facility, with the majority of long-term care facilities in our network combining both assisted living and memory care.
With these insights on our partner assisted living and memory care facilities, you can get a clear look at what you or your loved one can enjoy in their new home.
Health care services
Some of our partner facilities have units specifically designed for skilled nursing care. In these facilities, patients receive hands-on, round-the-clock care for their short- and long-term health needs. For those who don’t require this type of care, an assisted living or memory care facility covers things such as incontinence and diabetic care as well as regular medication assistance.
Assisted living and memory care units also extend care for seniors grappling with physical or mental health concerns. Certified experts provide both medical attention and personal support to residents. Among the services available are:
- Help with personal grooming
- Rehabilitation care, including physical and speech therapy
- Mobility assistance
- Palliative and hospice care
- Access to health care services
- Complimentary transportation to medical appointments
- 24-hour care and supervision
Custom dining options
In Knoxville facilities, professional chefs prepare meals tailored to each resident’s needs, including special dietary restrictions like no-sugar-added or low-sodium options. Residents can enjoy their meals in a restaurant-like atmosphere. Facilities may also provide meals for visiting family and guests which can be enjoyed in private dining areas.
Numerous room amenities
Depending on the facility, patient rooms will include a full kitchen or kitchenette, air conditioning, high-speed internet/Wi-Fi, cable television, garden views, regular laundry service/housekeeping, and accessibility. Patients can also keep pets up to 30 pounds in their rooms.
Recreational areas and activities
Within the A Place for Mom network, you can find on-site activities offered in all facilities along with a wealth of amenities. Facilities offer religious services, cooking classes, live performances, exercise classes, holiday parties, guest speakers, and other activities to help residents stay socially engaged. For the safety of residents, 71% also have enclosed walking spaces.
Common areas include a library and a media center for residents to enjoy. Recreational areas with arts and crafts, games, musical instruments, a theater room, and a fitness center are also available at most places. Outdoor facilities include raised garden beds and enclosed courtyards designed to accommodate and secure patients with memory loss.
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Unfamiliar with Knoxville? Here are some highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Knoxville
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Knoxville population
Median annual income for Knoxville seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Knoxville
Seniors in assisted living or memory care often require comprehensive care for both short- and long-term periods. However, some facilities may not have all the necessary resources available on-site. The following is a list of healthcare facilities in Knoxville that can provide a full range of services for your loved ones’ needs:
Parkwest Medical Center
Parkwest Medical Center is a highly rated general medical and surgical facility, known for its exceptional performance in 11 adult procedures and conditions. While not ranked in geriatrics, their expertise in a wide range of medical specialties makes them a trusted choice for those seeking high-quality healthcare.
University of Tennessee Medical Center
The University of Tennessee Medical Center has been recognized as a facility of excellence, having earned a high-performing rating for 11 adult procedures and conditions. This teaching hospital offers a wide range of medical services but is currently unranked in the area of geriatrics.
Transportation for seniors in Knoxville
Seniors in assisted living or memory care typically use the facility-provided transportation. Some seniors or their family and friends also might want to use the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) to visit or take special trip out. KAT operates over 20 bus lines on fixed routes and also offers a paratransit service called LIFT for those who can’t use regular buses. The service provides door-to-door transportation by reservation only, and passengers must be certified by KAT to use it. Additionally, KAT offers a transportation counseling service to help seniors choose the best local transportation options.
For seniors who need more choices, Knox County CAC Transit provides a wheelchair-accessible door-to-door service for those who can’t use KAT or LIFT, while Volunteer Assisted Transportation through CAC offers eligible seniors transportation in program vehicles with volunteer drivers. TennCare members can get non-emergency medical transportation with 72-hour advance notice of their appointment time, while MyRide Tennessee is a sustainable, senior-friendly volunteer transportation service that uses personal vehicles to carry older Tennesseans to a range of destinations, including medical appointments and grocery stores.
Senior activities in Knoxville
Knoxville is a beautiful city that provides seniors with a plethora of options for engaging in recreational, educational, and entertaining indoor and outdoor activities with family or friends. Throughout the year, various events are available to the public.
Culture and dining
Culture and dining are standout features of Knoxville. While plenty of good food is provided in a resident’s facilities, dining out can be a nice treat. Knoxville’s dining scene is equally exciting, with everything from upscale restaurants and craft breweries to pet-friendly pizzerias and themed bistros. The Five Thirty Lounge and Nick & J’s Cafe are two notable favorites among locals and visitors. For music, the well-regarded Knoxville Symphony Orchestra offers monthly concerts, choirs, concertos, and more. The Tennessee Theater is another must-visit for music lovers, offering a chance to see touring stars and groups.
Museums and the arts
Knoxville is also a haven for history buffs, art lovers, and museum enthusiasts. The Knoxville Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of East Tennessee 19th century art, contemporary art, and traveling exhibitions, while The East Tennessee History Center provides a thoughtful and insightful look at the region’s unique history.
For a relaxing and unforgettable experience, visitors can explore the Knoxville Botanical Gardens, which feature walking trails, historic outbuildings, and horticultural specimens native to the area. The McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture is another must-see destination for those interested in nature and society.
Fun for the whole family
Families can enjoy a variety of events and attractions throughout the year in Knoxville, including the Dogwood Arts Festival and KARM Dragon Boat Festival. In Fall, the downtown Latin-American themed Hola Festival is hard to beat. Not to mention the exciting Cabin Fever: Rod Run Car Show held every year. Dollywood is also a popular attraction for visitors of all ages, and Zoo Knoxville offers wildlife from around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Knoxville, TN. 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 Knoxville 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.
Health Department. Knox County. Business Guidance-Covid-19.
More questions?
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