About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2025 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2025 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2025 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Independent Living Communities in Nashville, TN

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Who are you searching for?

Within the scenic heart of Tennessee, Nashville allures retirees with its distinct fusion of Southern charm, lively culture, and a leisurely rhythm of life. With a temperate climate graced by mild winters and an abundance of sun-filled days, Nashville presents an enticing setting for retirees searching for cozy living. Moreover, Music City more than lives up to its name with its thriving music and arts scene ensuring seniors have ample chances for social engagement and nurturing their cultural spirits.

Independent living caters to individuals who maintain an active lifestyle, yet seek a more comfortable living environment surrounded by their peers. In Nashville, Tennessee, A Place For Mom has six partnered independent living facilities within 10 miles of downtown Nashville.

To make your search easier, we have organized information on the best independent living facilities, their rules and regulations, and how to pay for them. Additionally, we have included the top attractions in Nashville and the transportation options to best get around town.

Nashville Independent Living Facilities | 1088 Reviews

Showing 51 communities
Last Updated: 12/2/25
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
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Our methodology

How we rank order the Nashville community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Nashville community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:

  • Proximity to your search location
  • Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
  • The amount of detailed community information available

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information

350,000+ reviews

We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities

Read our full methodology

Costs of independent living in the Nashville area

Our network of partners’ average independent living cost in Nashville is $2,296 per month.[01] This amount takes into account the various floor layouts, amenities, and other factors to represent an average total cost paid each month.

The following graph shows Nashville and the surrounding areas’ baseline costs for comparison and does not include any add-on fees.

Independent living costs in Nashville, TN, vs. nearby cities

Nashville, TN
$4,368/mo

Independent living costs in Nashville, TN, vs. state and national averages

Nashville, TN
$4,368/mo
U.S. national average
$4,153/mo

Independent living costs in Nashville, TN, vs. other senior living options

$5,007/mo
Independent Living
$4,368/mo

Independent living costs in Nashville, TN, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$5,124/mo
Studio
$6,030/mo
1 Bedroom
$6,271/mo
2 Bedroom
$6,572/mo

Senior living costs in Nashville vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Nashville, TN
Column state: Tennessee
Column national: U.S.
Community typeNashville, TNTennesseeU.S.
Independent Living$4,368/mo$3,781/mo$4,153/mo
Assisted Living$4,839/mo$4,267/mo$4,698/mo
Memory Care$5,007/mo$4,358/mo$4,946/mo
Independent Living
Nashville, TN:$4,368/mo
Tennessee:$3,781/mo
U.S.:$4,153/mo
Assisted Living
Nashville, TN:$4,839/mo
Tennessee:$4,267/mo
U.S.:$4,698/mo
Memory Care
Nashville, TN:$5,007/mo
Tennessee:$4,358/mo
U.S.:$4,946/mo
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Independent living costs in Nashville, TN, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly independent living costs have shifted over the past five years in Nashville and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Nashville, TNTN stateNational

Independent living cost trends in Nashville, TN

The table below shows how monthly independent living costs in Nashville have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 median costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column location: Location
Column cost2024: 2024 average cost
Column cost2023: 2023 average cost
Column percentChange: Percent change
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Nashville, TN$2,510/mo$2,736/mo-8.3%
Tennessee$2,903/mo$2,940/mo-1.3%
National$3,261/mo$3,166/mo+3.0%
Nashville, TN
2024 average cost:$2,510/mo
2023 average cost:$2,736/mo
Percent change:-8.3%
Tennessee
2024 average cost:$2,903/mo
2023 average cost:$2,940/mo
Percent change:-1.3%
National
2024 average cost:$3,261/mo
2023 average cost:$3,166/mo
Percent change:+3.0%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

What families are saying about independent living in Nashville

Recent reviews for independent living in Nashville

Southern Care Inc in Franklin, TN

4.3
Southern Care is a great facility. The staff is very friendly and attentive. I would recommend them to a friend. They are cost-effective. My sister likes the food. They have a big porch with rockers in the front and other space in the back. The room sizes are of a good size.

Grace Manor Assisted Living Community in Nashville, TN

4.0
I have to say my favorite thing about this community is how well maintained and kept clean it is. Every time I go to visit it is completely spotless with a fresh smell throughout the building. My mom has had no complaints about the food and has really enjoyed participating in the many activities ...
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Dandridge Tower in Nashville, TN

4.0
In general things seem to be going well for my loved on at Dandridge Tower. It's a nice enough looking place, but what really sets it apart is the people. Everyone is so friendly, and so welcoming! It's really a tight knit community. My loved one can be a bit of a shut-in, but she's always got ...
Read more

Reviews mention these favorite features of communities

Welcoming and responsive staff. Many reviews mention the friendly and accommodating nature of the staff in various communities. For instance, at Clarendale at Bellevue Place, the sales manager was praised for their knowledge and attentiveness during the moving process. At The McKendree Senior Living, the staff went above a ...
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Proximity to essential amenities and medical facilities. Several reviews highlight the convenience of living near grocery stores, restaurants, hospitals, and medical centers. For example, residents at The McKendree Senior Living appreciate being close to medical facilities and retail stores, making daily life easier.
Supportive and engaging community atmosphere. Reviews indicate that many communities foster a welcoming and inclusive environment where residents can make friends and feel at home. For instance, at Clarendale at Bellevue Place, Clarendale at Bellevue Place is praised for its focus on nourishing the social, emotional, and intellectual well ...
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High-quality meals and dining experiences. Residents highly value the quality and variety of food offered at their communities. For example, at Harmony at Bellevue, the staff's efforts to improve the food situation are noted, and at Windlands South, residents enjoy the available food options despite occasional inconsistencies.
Range of activities for residents. Communities offer a wide range of activities tailored to residents' interests, including art classes, singing sessions, and holiday parties. For instance, at Windlands South, residents participate in church services and various holiday events.
Timely and effective communication between staff and families. Families appreciate frequent and detailed communication from staff regarding the care and well-being of their loved ones. At Harmony at Bellevue, for example, the staff's attentiveness and care for residents is explicitly mentioned in reviews, along with their responsiveness to updates and con ...
Read more
AI generated from the text of family reviews

How people pay for independent living in Nashville

Because independent living facilities aren’t recognized as senior care homes, seniors can’t take advantage of Medicaid, Medicare, or a long-term insurance carrier to pay for their stay. However, they can use public funds to pay for in-home care services they bring to their independent living facility.

We’ll go over how seniors can pay for their independent living stays in this section. Here, you can find resources for seniors on private financing, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.

Private pay methods

Residents of independent living facilities can pay for their accommodations using various private payment options. Personal savings, investment returns, pensions, and Social Security income are just a few of the suitable methods for seniors to finance their stays.

VA benefits
24192

Number of veterans who live in Nashville

About 46% of Nashville veterans are 65+

Veterans can fund independent living facilities through their Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Pensions if eligible. Wartime veterans who qualify can also make use of the Aid and Attendance benefit, which is paid out alongside the VA Pension and can be used for anything to improve living quality.

Individuals with service-related disabilities or preexisting conditions made worse by military service are also eligible for VA Disability Compensation. This tax-free payment can cover the cost of housing and medical care, according to your disability rating.

For those wanting to upgrade their living facility, the Temporary Residence Adaptation grant can be used. Veterans can also check the VA grant and per diem program to gain further financial support. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) also offers financial grants of up to $1,500 through the Unmet Needs program to military families experiencing financial hardship due to their service.

Applying for benefits can be complicated, so ensure you take advantage of all the resources Nashville offers. Contact a veterans services officer for help answering all of your questions. Get in touch with these trained professionals at a veterans services organization (VSO), such as Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) clubs, Disabled American Veterans offices, American Legion posts, or the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services.

Resources for Nashville veterans

Government offices

Nashville Regional VA Office

110 Ninth Ave. S

Nashville, TN 37203

Phone: 800-827-1000

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Tennessee Department of Veterans Services

Nashville Field Office

1310 24th Ave. S, Rooms G116, G117, G118

Nashville, TN 37212

Phone: 615-741-2345

Contact: Jacquline Bumpas, veterans service officer

Phone: 615-982-5181

Contact: Ben Welch, veterans service officer

Phone: 615-981-9956

VSOs and nonprofits

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1291

1907 Lebanon Pike Pass

Nashville, TN 37210

Phone: 615-889-9755

Email: vfwnashville@outlook.com

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1970

7220 Charlotte Pike

Nashville, TN 37209

Phone: 615-352-9933

Disabled American Veterans Nashville Chapter

110 Ninth Ave. S, Suite C166B

Nashville, TN 37203

Phone: 615-695-6384

The American Legion Department of Tennessee

318 Donelson Pike

Nashville, TN 37214

Phone: 615-391-5088

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Wounded Warrior Project

223 Rosa L. Parks Ave., Suite 301

Nashville, TN 37203

Phone: 615-782-7226

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Medicaid

TennCare, Tennessee’s Medicaid program, provides health care to those who qualify because of a low income. Although Medicaid doesn’t cover the rent costs of a senior’s independent living, it can help offset in-home care and other medical costs if necessary. Check the eligibility reference guide to make sure you can use TennCare Medicaid for various needs.

Use this application form to apply for TennCare. Creating an account on the self-service portal called TennCare Connect allows you to easily apply for benefits, report changes, check your status, and much more.

Seniors who need help with daily activities can seek a home and community based services (HCBS) waiver. These waivers encompass a diverse array of personalized in-home care services.

For additional guidance on the Medicaid application process, seniors can contact the local Area Agency on Aging or the Long-Term Care Ombudsman. Ombudsmen are trained volunteers who can answer your Medicaid-related questions and concerns. Seniors can also connect with the Greater Nashville Regional Council Area Agency on Aging and Disability or Mid-Cumberland for ombudsman services.

Nashville resident Medicaid resources

Medicaid offices and resources

TennCare

310 Great Circle Road

Nashville, TN 37243

Phone: 800-342-3145

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Greater Nashville Regional Council Area Agency on Aging and Disability
501 Union St., Sixth Floor

Nashville, TN 37219
Phone: 615-862-8828

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Greater Nashville Regional Council

44 Vantage Way, Suite 450

Nashville, TN 37228

Phone: 615-862-8828

Fax: 615-862-8840

Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency

1101 Kermit Drive, Suite 300

Nashville, TN 37217

Phone: 615-850-3918

Email: mlunday@mchra.com

State Long-Term Care Ombudsman

502 Deaderick St., Ninth Floor

Nashville, TN 37243

Phone: 615-253-5412

Fax: 615-741-3309
Email: teresa.teeple@tn.gov

Medicare

Medicare is a federally funded health care program for seniors who are at least 65 years of age. While Medicare doesn’t pay for rent in an independent living community, it does cover certain medically necessary in-home care for short-term medical needs.

There are a few additional resources available to Medicare-eligible individuals that can help seniors. Tennessee Medicare Savings Programs, for example, assist low-income seniors in paying their Medicare deductibles and copayments. Seniors can get started by filling out an application on TennCareConnect.

CoverRx, a Behavioral Health Safety Net program of Tennessee (BHSN of TN), assists those without prescription pharmaceutical coverage in Tennessee who need extra help paying for medications.

Apply for Medicare benefits by reaching out to your nearest Social Security Administration office or submit your application online. The Tennessee State Health Insurance Help Program (TN SHIP) provides free support and counseling for anyone with Medicare-related questions. Seniors can look for Medicare counseling sites on this interactive map to find out where certified SHIP counselors will be and when. You can also contact your local Social Security office or the long-term care ombudsman if you have questions.

Nashville resident Medicare resources

Medicare offices and resources

Nashville Social Security Administration Office

120 Athens Way

Nashville, TN 37228

Phone: 877-808-5461

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Nashville Social Security Administration Office

221 Cumberland Bend

Nashville, TN 37228

Phone: 877-583-4103

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Greater Nashville Regional Council (SHIP)

44 Vantage Way, Suite 450

Nashville, TN 37228

Phone: 615-862-8828

Fax: 615-862-8840

Mid-Cumberland Human Resource Agency

1101 Kermit Drive, Suite 300

Nashville, TN 37217

Phone: 615-850-3918

Email: mlunday@mchra.com

State Long-Term Care Ombudsman

502 Deaderick St., Ninth Floor

Nashville, TN 37243

Phone: 615-253-5412

Fax: 615-741-3309
Email: teresa.teeple@tn.gov

Understand Tennessee laws and regulations for independent living communities

Independent living facilities are intended for self-sufficient seniors who don’t require daily support. As a result, residents in these facilities must be capable of living independently and managing their care. This is why stand-alone independent living facilities in Nashville don’t need to be licensed as a senior care community.

However, they still have to follow city, state, and federal guidelines. The Metro Codes Department must inspect Nashville properties to ensure the Metro Code of Ordinances is being followed. Seniors can put in a public record request online to see inspection reports.

Independent living facilities are also expected to follow the Fair Housing Act, as well as the Tennessee Human Rights Act to guarantee seniors have access to housing. Stand-alone independent living communities in Nashville must also follow the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. The ADA ensures that landlords are prohibited from discriminating or denying housing to any one person based on disability status.

Independent living combined with care

Licenses may be required if the community is combined with other senior care facilities, such as assisted living and memory care units, or if it is part of a continuing care retirement community. In that case, the Tennessee Department of Health’s Office of Health Care Facilities’ Board for Licensing Health Care Facilities licenses what Tennessee calls Assisted-Care Living Facilities. There are also residential homes for the aged, which are smaller facilities that are for seniors who just need a small amount of help in addition to room and board.

Inspections take place — at a minimum — every 15 months to ensure that the Standards for Assisted-Care Living Facilities are being met. The inspections cover several areas including fire safety, staffing levels, medication management, infection control, and resident rights. Facility inspection reports are made available online.

Tennessee Department of Health contact information

Tennessee 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 Tennessee independent living communities

Nashville has no required regulations that independent living facilities have to follow. However, the city does provide a general guidance list to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and raise awareness.

An illustration of a syringe

Vaccinations. Vaccines are available by appointment at Metro Public Health Department health clinics and are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

An illustration of a protective breathing mask

Masking. Anyone with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask but it isn’t required.

An illustration of a shield

Staff safety. High-touch surfaces are cleaned and disinfected regularly. Staff should wash their hands often with soap and water.

Types of independent living in Nashville

Considered a favorite retirement haven among seniors, Nashville captivates with its inclusive community, storied cultural heritage, and genuine Southern warmth. The Nashville area has various independent living communities, from budget layouts to luxurious living. The gentle, golden hues and rustic charm found in numerous residential facilities evoke a soothing countryside ambiance, enveloping residents in a comforting embrace of rural serenity. Senior independent living facilities provide several convenient services and amenities to make retired life easier — from planned social events to complimentary transportation to dining services.

Various facilities available

Six of our partner independent living institutions within a 10-mile radius of the heart of Nashville include three stand-alone facilities. The other three facilities are combinations of assisted living, independent living, and memory care.

If you expand your search area to a 25-mile radius of downtown Nashville, there are plenty of additional options:

  • 3 stand-alone independent living facilities
  • 3 combination assisted living and independent living facilities
  • 12 combination assisted living, independent living, and memory care facilities

Multiple transportation mode accessibility 

Public transportation, called WeGo in Nashville, is close by for all residents living in our partner independent living communities. For those who like to drive themselves, all our partner facilities also offer resident parking. Seniors can also use the community’s transportation services (at-cost or complimentary) to run errands. Of our Nashville partner communities, 83% offer free transportation. There are so many ways to get out and enjoy all the Country Music Capital has to offer.

Multiple amenities offered

Most of our partner facilities provide arts and crafts studios and exercise centers for seniors who lead active lifestyles. For those who prefer staying close to home, there’s a library and a game room available in all our partner communities. All of our partners also have personal care services, such as barber shops and beauty salons available, too.[01]

Numerous Nashville independent living communities offer an array of amenities that ensure a comfortable lifestyle. From indulgent resort-style pools and serene community gardens to inviting outdoor patios ideal for leisurely barbecues, these amenities prioritize comfort. Many independent living facilities in Nashville offer chef-prepared meals to give residents a taste of finger-lickin’ Southern fare. Others go the extra mile by providing breakfast and coffee concierge services, adding a touch of luxury to residents’ daily routines.

Nashville independent living services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Nashville independent living communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Nashville, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Nashville independent living

Independent living communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Nashville partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.
Nashville, TNNational
Nutritionist / dietician
Nutritionist / dietician
33.3%
20.5%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
41.2%
34.4%
No sugar
No sugar
35.3%
30.9%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
35.3%
33.6%
Pureed meals
Pureed meals
23.5%
10.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Nashville independent living

Our independent living communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Nashville communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.
Nashville, TNNational
Professional chef
Professional chef
37.3%
36.5%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
43.1%
43.5%
Room service
Room service
41.2%
37%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
9.8%
17.2%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Nashville independent living

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered independent living communities in Nashville offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Nashville, TNNational
Activity director
Activity director
54.9%
45.1%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
27.5%
28.3%
Community service programs
Community service programs
35.3%
33%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
60.8%
47.5%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
52.9%
48.9%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
54.9%
54%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
47.1%
42.9%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
41.2%
38.1%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
39.2%
41.8%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
51%
47.1%
Live performances
Live performances
47.1%
46.8%
Dances
Dances
27.5%
33%
Fitness center
Fitness center
35.3%
39.5%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
49%
46.4%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Nashville? Highlights for seniors

89071
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Nashville
13%
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Nashville population
$51,858

Median annual income for Nashville seniors 65 and older

Health care for seniors in Nashville

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Vanderbilt University Medical Center ranks at the very top in all procedures and conditions. It’s Tennessee’s premier hospital, ranking first in the region and 19th in the U.S. It’s a teaching hospital that provides superior care for the most challenging patients and their health conditions.

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A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital

Regarding medical facilities, Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital is well regarded, at No. 2  in the state, and among the top 12% nationally. It’s considered excellent in working with 15 adult procedures and disorders, including stroke transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), joint replacements, cancer therapies, and surgeries related to the heart.

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A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

TriStar Centennial Medical Center

TriStar Centennial Medical Center provides comprehensive medical and surgical services and satisfies patient needs. It has received top ratings for performing exceptionally well in various adult procedures and illnesses, including colon cancer, heart attack care, heart failure treatment, stroke care, and both hip and knee replacement.

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Transportation for Seniors in Nashville

Nashville is a big city, and it is primarily car-dependent. However, it does have several walkable neighborhoods. To rate the neighborhood’s walkability, Walk Score uses a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 being the most walkable. The city’s total walk score is 29, while its bike score is 30. Its transit score also ranks fairly low at 22.[07]

The outlying suburbs around the city center are significantly less walkable, and public transportation is scarce. However, East End, Downtown, and Cameron Trimble are the most walkable parts of Nashville.[07]

Most of our nearby Nashville independent living facility partners also offer transportation services for seniors. More than 80% of our partners provide complimentary transportation, whereas 50% offer at-cost transportation.[01]

Nashville’s public transportation service, WeGo Public Transit, has 34 bus routes and one train route starting from Lebanon. There’s a discount of 85 cents for seniors over 65 and disabled people, which can be purchased by either showing a driver’s license, Medicare, or a Seniors-MTA Golden Age card. Fill out the discount card application online.

WeGo Access Program provides door-to-door van service for disabled people who can’t use the regular WeGo service. It costs $3.70 per ride, runs on set routes, and riders may require a personal care assistant.

Senior Ride Nashville provides services for those 60 and above with a round-trip fare of $6. Its yearly membership fee is $25. All volunteer drivers are trained and vetted. This service can support multi-stop trips up to three hours long. Eligible residents will be notified when they can join after they pre-register. There’s a waitlist for those wanting to use this service.

Transportation card image
29

Walk Score

Transportation card image
22

Transit Score

Transportation card image
30

Bike Score

Senior activities in Nashville

Nashville’s long history with country music provides many of the city’s best tourist attractions. Even if you’re not a fan of Waylon and Willie, seniors can enjoy various other attractions and activities, including indoor and outdoor outings.

Because Nashville is regarded as the birthplace of country music, it’s natural that it’d also be home to one of the largest museums in the world devoted to the genre. Curated exhibits at the Country Music Hall of Fame showcase iconic memorabilia, including stage costumes, instruments, and personal belongings of legendary country music artists. Seniors can revisit cherished classics and discover new favorites as they explore interactive displays, engage in audio tours, and even catch live performances. Assistive listening devices, large print guides, and wheelchair rentals are available to guests. Country music lovers can’t miss the famous Johnny Cash Museum. You can also stop in for some beer or barbecue at Johnny Cash’s Bar and BBQ.

For those who wish to experience live country music, the Grand Ole Opry features prominent country artists as well as upcoming stars. This venue also provides assistive listening devices and wheelchair-accessible features useful for disabled residents. The Ryman Auditorium is also an iconic music venue in Nashville, and it offers a full range of accessibility options.

The General Jackson Showboat is a massive showboat where you can experience famous Nashville singers playing on board. You can even enjoy a meal, sail down the Cumberland River, and take in breathtaking city views.

To all animal lovers, the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere invites you to embark on a journey through the animal kingdom. Seniors can watch their favorite animals in well-maintained habitats. The zoo’s tranquil atmosphere and well-shaded seating areas provide the perfect place for seniors to reconnect with nature. Wheelchair rentals start at $12, although you can bring your own for free.

Centennial Park has beautiful walking trails and a sunken garden to enjoy more scenic views while being active. There’s an art center, an activity center, and historical sites perfect for family activities. The park has a scheduled events list that you can also peruse to plan your next outing.

The Nashville Farmers Market is a terrific place for elders to engage with the local community and shop for fresh produce and artisanal food. The venue has two covered open-air sheds, a 24,000-square-foot garden center, a culinary incubator center, and a food hall. It’s open all year long!

Sports fans in Nashville will be delighted by the variety of sports teams the city offers. If you love football, you’ll want to stop by Nissan Stadium where the NFL’s Tennessee Titans play. For professional ice hockey, catch the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. If you want hotdogs and Cracker Jacks, the Nashville Sounds minor league baseball team might be who you want to root for.

For more senior-specific activities, The Metro Parks Senior Recreation Program has visual arts, dance, crafts, and other leisure activities for people over 55. It has three primary locations (East, Elizabeth, and Hadley) and nine satellite locations.

Nashville and the neighboring communities boast an array of senior centers where individuals can relish their golden years. Among these, FiftyForward Donelson Station and FiftyForward Knowles stand out for their enjoyable activities. These centers cater to various interests and passions, from yoga and tai chi sessions to bead weaving and choral singing. Moreover, Nashville takes pride in its senior dining program, which offers communal meals exclusively for individuals aged 60 and above. With four conveniently located venues open from Monday to Friday, seniors can savor not only nutritious meals but also partake in nutrition sessions and weekly doses of fun and fitness activities.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

  4. U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

  5. U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital.

  6. U.S. News and World Report. (2023). TriStar Centennial Medical Center.

  7. Walk Score. (2023). Living in Nashville-Davidson.

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1.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

4.

U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

5.

U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital.

6.

U.S. News and World Report. (2023). TriStar Centennial Medical Center.

7.

Walk Score. (2023). Living in Nashville-Davidson.