In the heart of the south Louisiana region known as Acadiana, Lafayette is known for its Cajun food and culture, unique music, and lush landscapes. With a cost of living below the national average and a warm climate year-round, Lafayette is an attractive location for active, retired seniors. These seniors may want to remain connected to their hometowns while living in a community with their 55+ peers and therefore seek out independent living communities where they can do both.
These communities typically offer all the amenities that active seniors need in a place to call home: They give seniors access to easy transportation, they’re often pet-friendly, and they come outfitted with social activity hubs like game rooms, movie theaters, TV lounges, and fitness centers.
This guide makes it easier to find the best senior independent living communities. We’ve used our proprietary data and reviews of our partner facilities to compile and share information about the prices, payment options, amenities and services, state and local regulations, and more. Let us help you find the ideal senior living communities in Lafayette Parish.
The staff is extremely friendly - they check on the in laws multiple times a day. The housekeeping is good - laundry is done once week unless you pay more for it. This has been an issue, it would be nice if...
Our loved one is doing well at The Blake at Lafayette community. The staff members are caring and provide good quality of life care. Based on the experience we have had so far, we would absolutely recommend...
I would recommend the facility. Having a loved one with dementia increases the level of concern. I have cameras so I can check on her now, since she no longer will answer a phone.
Based off of our personal experience, I would recommend Avanti Senior Living at Lafayette to others looking.
Mom loves it there! Highest quality of care she has received from the past 3 retirement facilities. Food - not so great. Activities - not much to speak of. But, the friendliness and personal care...
I love this community, They have a website and post pictures of all the activities they do. They go above and beyond to make sure my loved one is taken care of and I would recommend this community to...
Garden View has been absolutely wonderful, starting with the management, housekeeping, activities provided for residents, meals provided, etc. I can honestly say that we have had absolutely NO complaints...
My mother-in-law is in good hands & well taken care of. Thank you for all you do
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Lafayette community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
The average actual cost for Lafayette independent living is $5,114 among our network of partners, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary research.[01] This cost of independent living reflects what people pay to live in our network’s facilities and includes a variety of floor plans, amenities, services, and other variables.
In general, the cost of living in Lafayette is lower than in many other United States cities, making it a little easier for seniors on a fixed income to afford housing, health care, and other daily needs.[02]
The following chart compares Lafayette and neighboring areas’ baseline and starting rent costs.
Because independent living facilities are not designated as health care, seniors cannot utilize Medicaid, Medicare, or a long-term insurance plan to pay for their living costs (i.e., rent), though they can use these funds for in-home care services they bring to their independent living facilities. Typically, seniors and their families fund independent living stays through a combination of private funds, benefits, and other payment methods.
In this section, we’ll go over how seniors can use private financing and VA benefits to pay for their independent living stays.
Residents in independent living facilities can pay for their accommodations using a variety of private payment options. Personal savings, investment returns, pensions, and Social Security income are just a few of the acceptable methods for seniors to finance their stays.
Number of veterans who live in Lafayette
About 49% of Lafayette veterans are 65+
Several veterans service organizations (VSOs) and veterans service officers in Lafayette provide information and guidance to help veterans access government benefits. VA benefits and local programs are available to assist elderly veterans with living expenses, and VA Pensions can be utilized to pay for senior independent living.
Veterans who are enrolled in VA health care can also see if they qualify for the VA’s Aid and Attendance benefit, which supplements their Pension to help improve their quality of life.
Local organizations, such as American Legion or Disabled American Veterans, can help veterans understand and enroll in VA benefits and other applicable programs. Veterans in Lafayette can also seek help with veteran benefits via the Department of Veterans Affairs in Lafayette. Contact information can be found in the resources section below.
Resources for Lafayette veterans
Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs
Officers Paul Fontenot and Nakeisha Foots
2100 Jefferson St., Room 403B
Lafayette, LA 70501
Phone: 337-262-5628
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (by appointment only)
Email: paul.fontenot2@la.gov
Email: nakeisha.foots2@la.gov
Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office
1250 Poydras St.
New Orleans, LA 70113
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9822
100 Van Dyke Court
Lafayette, LA 70503
Phone: 337-278-0807
Disabled American Veterans
201 Energy Parkway, Room 103
Lafayette, LA 70508
Phone: 337-856-6157
American Legion Post 69
1450 Surrey St.
Lafayette, LA 70501
Phone: 804-724-1618
Catholic War Veterans of the U.S.A.
703 Cobblestone Road
Lafayette, LA 70508
Phone: 337-237-8282
Blinded Veterans Association
2100 Jefferson St.
Lafayette, LA
Phone: 225-219-5000
Louisiana Medicaid, the state’s Medicaid program, does not support rent for independent living but can cover medically essential in-home health care services. Lafayette seniors can apply for Medicaid or learn more about what it covers by visiting the Louisiana Medicaid Self-Service Portal (SSP). More information about eligibility and coverage is available on this Medicaid Services Chart, and many common Medicaid-related questions are addressed in this FAQ about Louisiana Medicaid.
In-home care costs can also be offset through waiver programs such as the Home and Community-Based Services Waiver Programs. Here are two waivers and additional programs you might be interested in:
The Cajun Area Agency on Aging or the long-term care ombudsman program can help you investigate the various Medicaid options available. The ombudsman makes regular visits to the Area Agency on Aging, but you can also call. The contact information for these offices is available in the Medicare resources listed below.
Lafayette resident Medicaid resources
Louisiana Department of Health
628 N. Fourth St.
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: 225-342-9500; 888-342-6207
Fax: 225-342-5568
Email: MyMedicaid@la.gov
Baton Rouge Regional Medicaid Office
117 Production Drive
Lafayette, LA 70508
Phone: 888-342-6207
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Cajun Area Agency on Aging
160 Industrial Parkway
Lafayette, LA 70508
Phone: 337-262-5990
Fax: 337-262-1365
Email: cajnltc@lusfiber.net
Louisiana Ombudsman Program
Phone: 800-738-2266; 337-572-8940
Email:d.adams@lusfiber.net
Email: n.burch@lusfiber.net
Medicare covers health care services for persons 65 and older, some younger people with impairments, and those with end-stage renal disease. It does not cover custodial expenditures for independent living, including monthly rent, but it may cover medically essential in-home care for short-term medical requirements. To learn more details about what Medicare covers, visit the official Medicare website, call 1-800-MEDICARE, or visit your local Social Security Administration office to ask questions or apply.
Supplemental Medicare resources are also available for Lafayette seniors. For example, the Louisiana Medicare Savings Program covers a portion of Medicare premiums, providing another way to help pay for medical care. Apply by filling out an application form and mailing or faxing it, by calling Medicaid Customer Service at 888-342-6207, or by going in person to the nearest Medicaid office.
Additionally, a program known as PACE Lafayette (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) provides health and supportive services to older persons who prefer to live in their communities rather than in nursing homes. It helps seniors live with dignity by offering professional direction, physical respite, and emotional support to carers while allowing the elderly to remain in their homes.
For help with medication costs, the pharmaceutical assistance program, Louisiana Health Access Program offers low-cost prescription pharmaceuticals to low-income individuals.
The Lafayette Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) provides free health insurance counseling to seniors on navigating Medicare but does not cover any medical bills. Contact SHIIP or your local long-term care ombudsman for assistance with eligible benefits and enrollment. They advocate for the health care rights of independent living facility residents and support families in understanding independent living options and payment methods.
Lafayette resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration
106 Corporate Blvd.
Lafayette, LA 70508
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Medicare Savings Program Mailing and Faxing Information
Medicaid Application Office
P.O. Box 91278
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9278
Fax: 877-523-2987
Louisiana Ombudsman Program
Phone: 800-738-2266; 337-572-8940
Email:d.adams@lusfiber.net
Email: n.burch@lusfiber.net
Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIP)
1702 N. Third St.
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: 225-342-5301; 800-259-5300
Louisiana Health Access Program
1450 Poydras St., Suite 2136
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: 504-568-7474
Fax: 504-568-3157
Email: lahap@la.gov
PACE Lafayette
501 W. St. Mary Blvd., Suite 200
Lafayette, LA 70506
Phone: 337-470-4500
Independent living communities are not licensed because they don’t provide any type of personal or health care. Instead, they’re treated more like senior apartments and, therefore, have to adhere to the same standards that apply to any rental property.
To start, that means being in compliance with the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Service dogs must also be allowed (even if there is a no-pet policy) without charging additional fees unless the dog does any damage. You will find more in-depth information in this guide to landlord-tenant laws in Louisiana.
If an independent living facility is combined with assisted living or even a memory care unit, then licensing requirements for Adult Residential Care Providers will apply. The Health Standards Section (HSS) of the Louisiana Department of Health licenses and inspects such facilities.
In Louisiana, Adult Residential Care Providers (ARCP) are classified into four categories depending upon how many residents they’re allowed to service and what level of care they provide. Regardless of level, state law defines all ARCPs as places that provide 24/7 care and supervision for a group of residents, and coordinate a variety of supportive services. The laws also stipulate that all activities and services do the following:
Inspection reports or complaint information is not available online. To get access, you must submit a public records request. Use the online records center and click on the health standards request box.
Louisiana Department of Health
628 N. Fourth St.
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Phone: 225-342-9500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Lafayette does not mandate any specific citywide COVID requirements, but the state does offer some COVID-19 resources and recommendations.
Vaccinations and booster doses are recommended as a best practice.
Wearing a mask is recommended, especially at a gathering.
Facilities should ensure good ventilation to help keep the air clean for residents.
Staff should wash their hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
When feasible, maintain a distance of six feet from others and avoid congested areas.
Independent living gives a carefree existence for seniors who want to enjoy their retirement comfortably with like-minded peers. These communities offer various useful services and amenities, including dining service, access to transportation, fitness centers, and organized social events.
Many facilities focus on creating beauty for their residents, with luscious grounds, high ceilings, original art on the walls, and delicious dining options. Many senior living locations in Lafayette aim to be family-oriented, as some even offer special areas for seniors to take their day visitors and practice arts and crafts.
In facilities designed for seniors, areas like doorways and showers are designed for accessibility needs so that residents can keep caring for themselves independently. Communities often have fully equipped exercise centers to help with senior wellness. Seniors who have pets can often live with them as well, which can help keep them active and walking.
Many facilities put a focus on fun, engaging social activities, employing activity directors or hosting movie nights for residents. Arts and crafts centers, beauty salons, TV lounges, common indoor and outdoor spaces, walking paths, and gardens are all possible amenities you’ll find. Some facilities offer fitness activities such as yoga; some seniors head to nearby senior centers to take fitness classes, play games like bingo, and socialize. For seniors who are social butterflies, look for communities that host social and educational events to ensure they feel welcome and included.
Seniors in independent living in Lafayette have access to public transportation, including a bus system and resident parking for those who own automobiles. Seniors can often use the communities’ complimentary or at-cost transportation services to run errands and visit doctors.
As in many cities, independent living in Lafayette is often combined with other types of senior living and care. Within 10 miles of downtown Lafayette, A Place for Mom’s partner independent living facilities all also provide assisted living and memory care on the same campus. For forward-thinking seniors who would like to age in place, these combination facilities are excellent options.
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Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Lafayette
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Lafayette population
Median annual income for Lafayette seniors 65 and older
Lafayette has some excellent health care options for seniors. Veterans will find two clinics that are part of the larger VA Alexandria Health Care System. Explore the information offered below to discover more about the best hospitals in Lafayette.
The Lafayette Transit System operates a bus network throughout the city with both day and night service. All the buses in the fleet are ADA-compliant, with preferential seating for disabled people and seniors. The transit system also offers reduced fares for disabled, senior, and Medicare-funded passengers.
For those unable to use regular bus service due to a disability or medical condition, Lafayette Transit has developed a Paratransit Rider’s Guide. The manual explains qualifying conditions, how to organize a ride, and how to apply for the paratransit service. To apply for this benefit, visit the LTS paratransit application website for details. Similarly, Acadiana Transit, a paratransit service, is also available. The organization provides a special occasion charter and shuttle services for seniors as well.
The Lafayette Council on Aging also provides transportation for various purposes, including health care appointments and personal necessities like banking and grocery shopping.
Lafayette residents primarily rely on cars for transportation; however, certain neighborhoods are more walkable and bike-friendly than others. Overall, Walk Score — which rates cities on a scale of 100 for ease of getting around town — doesn’t give Lafayette high marks in either area.[06]
There’s a reason Lafayette is known as the “Happiest City in America.” It’s all about the people and culture that contains a rare joie de vivre. The city is the hub of the Acadiana region, also known as Cajun country, which is obvious everywhere you go, from cafes and dance halls to outdoor excursions. The rich cultural and environmental landscape means seniors can enjoy enlivening indoor and outdoor activities across the city.
For example, the Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park is an excellent place to get immersed in the culture. Visitors can learn about Acadian, Native American, and Creole cultures at Vermilionville through exhibitions, shows, and live musical acts. The location is wheelchair-accessible, and audio tours are provided for the visually impaired. Another great spot to take in local history is the Acadian Village, which includes authentic 19th-century Cajun Bayou homes and replica buildings to explore.
Seniors who appreciate music, theater, and dance can visit the Acadiana Center for the Arts and the Heymann Center. The Acadiana Center for the Arts has wheelchair-accessible seating and hearing-impaired audio technology. Both locations provide a variety of programs and events for seniors to participate in.
For those who love playing in the outdoors, the Wetlands Golf Course and The Farm d’Allie Golf Club are great places to tee off. Those more in tune with nature can visit the Acadiana Park Nature Station, which offers a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, pathways, educational exhibits, and audio displays for seniors who are visually impaired.
Food is an outsized part of Cajun culture. Those who want to learn to cook Creole meals on their own can attend cooking lessons at one of the numerous local cooking schools, such as the Kitchenary.
The Lafayette area is dotted by several local senior centers, such as the Beau Sejour Estates, Broussard Senior Center, and Carencro Senior Center. These facilities include various events, including social gatherings, bingo games, exercise equipment, and health and wellness programs.
Seniors can express themselves creatively and improve their physical and mental well-being by participating in programs at the Art Studio and Rosehouse. The Rosehouse offers health seminars, exercise equipment, chair volleyball, bingo, line dancing, and exercise classes. In contrast, the Art Studio offers painting, porcelain art, arts and crafts, and a community puzzle table.
Courtyard Retirement and Assisted Living, Brookdale Lafayette and The Blake at Lafayette are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Lafayette, LA. 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 Lafayette is $4,137 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Payscale. (2023). Cost of Living in Lafayette, Louisiana.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Hospitals in Lafayette, LA.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Lafayette.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Payscale. (2023). Cost of Living in Lafayette, Louisiana.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Hospitals in Lafayette, LA.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Lafayette.