10 Best Independent Living Communities in Fredericksburg, VA
With deep historic roots and a convenient location between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia, Fredericksburg is popular for active seniors. Fredericksburg’s famous sites hold significance in colonial and Civil War history — among them George Washington’s Ferry Farm and four battlefields from the Civil War era. Accompanied by a vibrant bar and restaurant scene and an array of shops and boutiques, Fredericksburg offers an abundance of experiences for seniors to indulge in.
When planning accommodations, many seniors consider independent living communities for comfort and convenience. Designed for those who want to maintain their independence but enjoy some extra support and senior-friendly amenities, independent living communities are known for promoting social connections among residents, thanks to on-site activities.
There are a number of A Place for Mom partner independent living communities to choose from within a 10-mile radius of downtown Fredericksburg. The following guide outlines what you need to know about these facilities, including options for paying for independent living communities in Fredericksburg, what benefits might help offset costs, relevant laws and regulations, and what it’s like to live in Fredericksburg whether you are looking for health care transportation, or something fun to do!
Fredericksburg Independent Living Facilities | 398 Reviews
My mother seems to like Jubilation although they made some promises when initially visiting. We were persistent on of the promises and they granted them. The facility is nice and clean with lots of...
The facility knew my parents were vegetarian before they moved in. It took about 2 months before they were always offered vegetarian choices and I still don't think the food is that great. I am not happy...
I moved my father into Fredericksburg assisted living about 1 month ago. This is by far the best facility he has ever been in. [name removed], the Administrator is great, as is her staff. They are all...
My mother is very happy there. The only downside so far is that because of the elevator being out of service she is having to find another place to stay for those days. She has limited mobility. She is...
The level of care has been superb and the staff is very friendly and caring. That's important because quality of care and Dad having a general feeling of SAFETY were a concern at the prior community [name...
My brother seems to be happy. The woman who took my brother on tour was very thorough. The nurse and the physical therapist were very good and on time. That was the main reason we chose Harmony at Falls...
Overall experience is great, considering the circumstances. They do a good job with cleanliness. Almost all the staff is very kind and helpful. Most know her name on sight. I won't ruin the grade on a couple...
What we like the most about Charter Senior Living is that everyone seems to care and we would recommend this community to other families who may need a place for their loved ones
Bickford is a warm and welcoming facility. The building and grounds are very nice and the staff members are very friendly and accommodating. Nothing is 100% but, overall, I am very pleased with the care...
My father lives here. The staff is courteous and helpful, the cost is affordable and it is very conveniently located. The apartments are well kept.
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I'am satisfied with my move to this community. So far everything has worked out very well for me since my move here. It is a nice community, and they do a great job with keeping the grounds, and the...
I would highly recommend this community to others based on my experience. The community is kept neat and clean, and the staff is very nice and helpful. The food looks good, and they have activities...
The community provides activities such as entertainment musicians, exercise classes, they take the residents outside frequently. Food is very good. I would rate the room sizes a 4. The staff really stood out...
Our methodology
How we rank order the Fredericksburg community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Fredericksburg 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
- Costs of independent living in the Fredericksburg area
- What families are saying about independent living in Fredericksburg
- How people pay for independent living in Fredericksburg
- Understand Virginia laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Get to know independent living in Fredericksburg
- Types of independent living in Fredericksburg
- Fredericksburg independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Fredericksburg? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in the Fredericksburg area
According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, the average monthly cost of independent living in Fredericksburg is $4,965, which includes associated fees and service fee add-ons.[01] This is what residents actually paid at our partner facilities and reflects various amenities, floor plans, and more to give you a comprehensive idea of the actual cost.
The graphic below shows the average baseline costs for independent living. Please be aware these costs do not include add-on fees.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Fredericksburg, VA vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Fredericksburg, VA vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Fredericksburg vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Fredericksburg, VA by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Fredericksburg over time
What families are saying about independent living in Fredericksburg
Recent reviews for independent living in Fredericksburg
Charter Senior Living of Fredericksburg
Victoria Park in Woodbridge, VA
Fredericksburg Assisted Living
How people pay for independent living in Fredericksburg
Since no care is provided in independent living facilities, residents cannot use Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term insurance to cover the cost of housing. However, there are other methods to help you cover or offset costs.
In this section, you’ll find information about private pay and VA benefits, as well as ways you can use Medicare and Medicaid for health care costs. You will also find local resources you can turn to for assistance navigating the various benefits available to you.
Many people will choose to use private pay options to cover their stay at an independent living community in Fredericksburg. Income sources could include savings, investments, pensions, and Social Security benefits, as well as the following:
Number of veterans who live in Fredericksburg
About 30% of Fredericksburg veterans are 65+{{citation3}}
Fredericksburg veterans may be eligible for VA benefits that can help cover independent living costs. One of the most well-known benefits for veterans is the VA Pension, which can be used for anything, including housing and health care costs.
Veterans might also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit, which is also designed to improve the quality of life for veterans or surviving spouses who need help with daily activities, are homebound because of illness, or have limited eyesight. This benefit is added to the monthly VA Pension, so it can be used for the same type of costs.
To receive any of these benefits, veterans must apply to ensure they qualify. Navigating VA benefits can be difficult, so don’t be afraid to turn to local resources for help. Many veterans qualify for more than they think, so speaking to an expert can make a big difference.
One resource for veteran benefits is the Fredericksburg office for the Virginia Department of Veterans Services. Veterans can speak with a representative free of charge and access additional benefit-related resources. Additional resources in the Fredericksburg area include the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3103, which has a claims representative available to speak to every Friday from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. There is also a VFW Department veterans services officer based in Hopewell, Virginia, who can provide assistance remotely. Finally, other veterans services organizations (VSOs) like the local American Legion can also provide guidance, as can the Virginia-specific guide for veterans.
Resources for Fredericksburg veterans
Virginia Department of Veterans Services – Fredericksburg Office
10300 Spotsylvania Ave.
Lee Hill Building 1, Suite 290
Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Phone: 540-376-7298
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
VFW Post 3103
2701 Princess Anne St.
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Phone: 540-373-3110
Hours: Friday, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. (for claims assistance)
VFW Post 3103 – Department Service Officer
1400 Lynchburg St.
Hopewell, VA 23860
Phone: 804-452-1347
Email: serviceofficer@VFWVA.org
American Legion Post 55
461 Woodford St.
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
The Department of Medical Assistance Services administers Cardinal Care, Virginia’s Medicaid program. Because there are no health care services offered at independent living facilities, residents cannot use Medicaid toward the cost of rent. However, if you require in-home health care, Medicaid can potentially cover those costs.
If you qualify for Medicaid and require medically-necessary in-home services (usually long-term care), the home and community based services (HCBS) waiver program can help. In Virginia, the Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus Waiver (CCC Plus) covers care for people who would otherwise need a nursing home or other specialized care facility. Private nursing care, adult day health care, respite, and personal care are some of the services covered by CCC Plus.
Virginia also offers developmental disability support waivers, such as the Family and Individual Support Waiver, Community Living Waiver, and Building Independence Waiver. Seniors interested in independent living should look into the Building Independence Waiver in particular, as it is designed for individuals who may need some support but can manage their own living arrangements.
Before you can receive any Medicaid benefits, you must first apply for Cardinal Care. There are various ways to do so, as well as additional information on how to apply:
- Apply for Medicaid online at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov.
- Apply for Medicaid over the phone by calling the Cover Virginia Call Center at 1-833-5CALLVA.
- You can download the application and take it to your local Department of Social Services or mail it.
Applying for Medicaid and understanding what you qualify for can be complex, but there are places to go for help in the Fredericksburg area. One option for assistance is the Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging (formerly known as the Rappahannock Area Agency on Aging), which is a great resource for seniors with various needs, including Medicaid benefits. The organization has a long-term care ombudsman on staff who serves as an advocate for older people. Another resource is the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman in Virginia, which offers information, advocacy, and more to the state’s seniors.
For more information about Cardinal Care, review the state’s Medical Assistance Handbook or use the resources below.
Fredericksburg resident Medicaid resources
Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services
600 E. Broad St.
Richmond, VA 23219
Fredericksburg Department of Social Services
608 Jackson St., Suite 100
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Phone: 540-372-1032
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging
460 Lendall Lane
Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Phone: 540-371-3375
Contact: Kim Merritt, long-term care ombudsman
Phone: 540-371-3375, ext. 113
Email: kmerritt@healthygenerations.org
Virginia Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
8004 Franklin Farms Drive
Henrico, Virginia 23229
Phone: 804-565-1600
The federal health insurance program, Medicare, for seniors aged 65+, cannot be used toward the monthly cost of independent living. However, similar to Medicaid, it can be used to help cover any medically necessary in-home, short-term care, which may give you more breathing room in your budget.
If you’re looking for additional cost savings, check into the state’s Medicare Savings Programs. If eligible, these programs can cover Medicare premiums and possibly deductibles and copays or at least reduce the amount owed.
To use Medicare, Virginians must apply through Social Security (the initial enrollment period is three months before turning 65). To apply or seek assistance, visit the Fredericksburg Social Security office.
To get guidance with this process, use the free Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP). The VICAP counselors are trained to help seniors understand the ins and outs of Medicare and how to get signed up.
An additional resource for Medicare guidance is the Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging which has counselors and an ombudsman on staff to help you with the application process. The state long-term care ombudsman can also offer assistance.
Fredericksburg resident Medicare resources
Fredericksburg Social Security Administration Office
9915 Patriot Highway
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging
460 Lendall Lane
Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Phone: 540-371-3375
Contact: Kim Merritt, long-term care ombudsman
Phone: 540-371-3375, ext. 113
Email: kmerritt@healthygenerations.org
Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program
1610 Forest Ave., Suite 100
Henrico, VA 23229
Phone: 804-662-9333
Virginia Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
8004 Franklin Farms Drive
Henrico, Virginia 23229
Phone: 804-565-1600
Understand Virginia laws and regulations for independent living communities
The rules around independent living communities depend on if it is a stand-alone community or if it is combined with another type of senior living facility, such as assisted living or memory care.
Stand-alone independent living communities
Because there is no health care offered, stand-alone independent living communities are treated like any other apartment or housing complex. They are therefore subject to general rental and housing regulations, such as:
- Federal Fair Housing Act (FHA): The FHA specifies that housing across the U.S. must be available to all people, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, etc.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Independent living communities must be ADA-compliant. Common areas and a certain number of units must be accessible for people with disabilities.
- Service animals: In Virginia, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for residents with service animals even if they don’t normally allow pets.[04]
- General maintenance laws: Landlords must follow maintenance regulations, which include ensuring buildings are up to code.
To learn more about laws and regulations around independent living facilities, check out Fredericksburg’s latest renter’s guide. Potential residents should also be aware of the city’s Rental Property Inspection Program, which is run through the Building and Development Services Department. Though independent living communities do not need to be inspected by law, they do need to be registered through the Building and Development Services Department. You can view property records through the online portal.
Independent living communities combined with other care facilities
Independent living communities that are combined with assisted living, memory care, or both must adhere to regulations for the associated senior living arrangements. In Virginia, assisted living and memory care facilities must follow the same laws and regulations because memory care is a specialized type of assisted living.
All assisted living and memory care facilities must be licensed and inspected through the Virginia Department of Social Services to ensure they are safe, sanitary, and compliant with all regulations. Inspections must happen annually, and you can search inspection reports for specific facilities on the department’s website.
In addition, combination independent living, assisted living, and/or memory care facilities must provide care or assistance with activities of daily living, ambulation, hygiene and grooming, and tasks such as making transportation arrangements for residents. Each resident must have a written, individualized service plan that supports personal dignity and freedom of choice. Medication management is included in those plans, and medications can be administered by licensed staff or medication aides who have successfully undergone a Board of Nursing-approved training program, have passed a competency evaluation, and are registered with the Virginia Board of Nursing.
These facilities are also required to have an administrator responsible for the general management and administration of the facility, as well as day-to-day operations. At all times, there should be a staff member in each building who has current CPR and first aid certifications. To provide oversight for residents needing health care services, a licensed health care professional must visit the facility at least every six months or one year if the community has a full-time licensed health care professional on-site.
One rule that often applies to both stand-alone and combined independent living communities is an age requirement, though it varies by location, so always check you are eligible before touring a facility.
Fredericksburg Department of Health contact information
Virginia Department of Health Fredericksburg office
608 Jackson St.
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Phone: 540-899-4142
COVID-19 regulations for Fredericksburg independent living communities
While there are no COVID-19 mandates in place for Fredericksburg, the state of Virginia encourages all residents to follow the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Vaccinations. Virginians are encouraged to keep updated on their COVID-19 vaccinations, including booster shots.
Masking. Masks are not required in Fredericksburg, but they are recommended for high-risk individuals or those who have recently been exposed to or infected with COVID-19.
Quarantining. Any Virginian who tests positive for COVID-19 should follow the latest CDC guidelines on isolation, which recommend isolating for five days after infection.
Get to know independent living in Fredericksburg
Types of independent living in Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg might have fewer choices for independent living communities compared to other cities, but the options available receive top ratings for their elegant, upscale feel and wide variety of amenities. The city’s location and rich history and culture are also draws for those considering independent living in the area.
Upscale choices for active seniors
Our partner independent living options in Fredericksburg often include comfortable and luxurious housing options with a variety of floor plans and upscale design elements, such as quartz countertops, high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, and even private balconies.
The city’s independent living communities we partner with have common amenities like chef-prepared meals, housekeeping services, and outdoor and indoor common areas, but some also offer unique features like woodworking shops, beauticians, jacuzzis, and butterfly gardens. In addition, most of our partner independent living communities in Fredericksburg are pet-friendly.
Making friends and having fun
Independent living facilities in Fredericksburg are also good for those who want to take advantage of the social aspect of living in a community. Residents have access to a wide array of on-site activities at many of the facilities we partner with, such as scheduled happy hours, planned day trips, fitness classes, picnics, and more, all to encourage well-being and socialization. Many independent living communities in Fredericksburg have staff on-site to organize outings, so residents can enjoy all there is to do in the city without having to stress about planning.
Aging in place
One other benefit of our partner independent living options in Fredericksburg is that many are combined with assisted living and/or memory care facilities, which can give residents and families peace of mind in case they need more support in the future. These facilities are great options for people who want to age in place, as the level of care can change as residents’ health needs shift.
Conveniently located between Richmond and Washington, D.C.
One selling point of Fredericksburg for seniors is its location halfway between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia. For those who prefer not to drive into busy cities, both Washington, D.C. and Richmond are accessible by train, giving seniors even more attractions to choose from when planning a day out.
Fredericksburg’s location also means access to multiple airports, a desirable feature for retirees who love to travel. The proximity to airports also makes it easy for out-of-town family and friends to visit or vice versa.
Fredericksburg independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Fredericksburg independent living
Availability of select dining options in Fredericksburg independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Fredericksburg independent living
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Unfamiliar with Fredericksburg? Highlights for seniors
Health care for seniors in Fredericksburg
Mary Washington Hospital
Mary Washington Hospital features a Level II trauma center and a primary stroke center. A part of the wider Mary Washington health care system, the 471-bed hospital is home to nine adult procedures and conditions rated high performing.
Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center
Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center is a 133-bed hospital that includes a 24-hour emergency room, heart and vascular care, advanced imaging, and more. As part of the HCA Virginia Health System, the medical center specializes in a variety of services.
Transportation for seniors in Fredericksburg
According to Walk Score, which measures the walkability and the level of public transportation in cities, Fredericksburg has a walk score of 46 out of 100.[06] That means that most people rely on cars to get around.
However, there are other options for seniors who prefer not to drive or don’t have a personal vehicle:
- Fredericksburg Regional Transit: This is the public transport system for Fredericksburg and the wider area. Also known as FXBGO!, all buses are wheelchair accessible.
- Mobility Options: The Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging offers a shared ride service for seniors 60 and older, as well as a number of other resources for transportation. Learn more in their Mobility Options guide.
- Private Transport: For private and nonemergency medical transport, the Fredericksburg area offers multiple services, including Bright Day Transit Services, LLC, Angel Rides Inc., and LifeCare Medical Transports.
Additionally, many of our partner independent living communities in Fredericksburg are located close to public transportation or even offer their own for free or at cost.
Walk Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Fredericksburg
Thanks to its variety of attractions and plenty of senior-specific activities, independent living residents in Fredericksburg can always stay busy.
Fredericksburg is best known for its history, especially as a former home of our first president, George Washington. History lovers can tour Ferry Farm, Washington’s childhood home; the Mary Washington House, which George Washington purchased for his mother in 1772; and Historic Kenmore, the former mansion of George Washington’s sister, Betty Washington Lewis (and current location of Shakespeare on the Lawn).
Fredericksburg was also a key location in the Civil War, so visitors often tour battlegrounds and see other historical Civil War sites. Visit the city’s website, fxbg.com, for a full list of historic attractions, including the Trail to Freedom, where freedom-seeking enslaved people traveled from Fredericksburg to Stafford County, Virginia, in the late 1800s. Chatham Manor, built in 1771, has been the site of many historic events, including a slave rebellion in the early 1800s. It also served as the Union Army headquarters during the Civil War and a battleground. Additionally, Shannon Air Museum is home to unique and rare planes from the golden age of aviation.
In addition to its history, Fredericksburg is a great city for fans of the arts. It’s home to the Fredericksburg Symphony and the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, which puts on musicals and plays throughout the year.
For hosting friends and family from out of town, Downtown Fredericksburg is the go-to spot for eating, shopping, and more. The city is home to plenty of restaurants, whether you’re simply looking for a cup of coffee or a fine dining experience. Residents and visitors to Fredericksburg also love its wineries, such as Eden Try Winery and Bacchus Winery, and distilleries, like A. Smith Bowman Distillery, which offers complimentary tours and bourbon tastings. Fredericksburg is also home to a number of breweries, such as 6 Bears & a Goat and Strangeways Brewing. The Fredericksburg Farmers Market at Hurkamp Park, open Saturdays from April to October, is another popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
For a walk on a nice day, Fredericksburg has multiple parks to choose from. Alum Spring Park has a beautiful footbridge and playground, ideal for entertaining grandchildren. Another popular spot is Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area, which is great for hiking, biking, and picnics. If you’re looking for more adventure, Virginia Outdoor Center in Downtown Fredericksburg organizes excursions down the Rappahannock River by canoe, paddleboard, kayak, or tube.
Seniors looking to spend time with friends or make new ones go to the Spotsylvania Senior Center. Located at the Marshall Center in nearby Spotsylvania, Virginia, the senior center offers free membership as well as a variety of free activities, like line dancing, pickleball, and bingo. Spotsylvania Parks & Recreation also hosts free adult classes, including tai chi, tennis lessons, and drawing classes.
Other senior-specific activities in Fredericksburg include Senior Cafes organized by the Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging. Centered around social and physical activities for seniors, you can find a calendar of upcoming Senior Cafe events online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jubilation, Spring Arbor of Fredericksburg and Fredericksburg Assisted Living are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Fredericksburg, VA. 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 Fredericksburg is $3,500 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia. (n.d.). Service & Emotional Support Animals.
U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.) Mary Washington Hospital.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Fredericksburg.
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