Who are you searching for?

Seattle is known as the Emerald City because of its surrounding evergreen forests. It’s a beautiful urban area that’s still in touch with nature. If you or a loved one is looking at senior living options in Seattle, exploring the information in this guide will help you better navigate senior living and select the best possible option.

When looking for senior living options in Seattle, “nursing home” is often used as an all-encompassing term. The reality is nursing, as defined by government agencies, refers specifically to skilled nursing facilities that care for people with significant short- and long-term health conditions or injuries. Skilled nursing facilities benefit seniors who need full-time care. However, many seniors don’t need this degree of attention. Rather, they’d do well in an assisted living or memory care facility that allows them to live as independently as possible.

In this guide, we’ll go over information about skilled nursing to help you determine whether it’s the right care level. While we don’t partner with any stand-alone skilled nursing facilities, some of our assisted living and memory care communities have skilled nursing care services on-site.

A Place for Mom partners with 153 assisted living and memory care facilities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Seattle. And we have many more options in a 25-mile radius if you are looking beyond the immediate city. In this guide, we will take a look at the costs, ways to pay, health care options, transportation methods, and more.

Nursing Homes Facilities near Seattle, WA

Our methodology

How we rank order the Seattle community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Seattle 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

Table of contents

What nursing homes cost in the Seattle area
What families are saying about nursing homes in Seattle
Paying for a nursing home in Seattle
Understand Washington laws and regulations for nursing homes
What to expect from nursing homes in Seattle
Seattle nursing homes services and amenities
Explore senior care with confidence
Unfamiliar with Seattle? Highlights for seniors

What nursing homes cost in the Seattle area

The national median cost of a nursing home in a private room is $8,910 per month.^[01] This cost is for skilled nursing facilities providing 24-hour supervision and on-site health and rehabilitative services.

Skilled nursing facilities are ideal for seniors who need long-term care due to serious conditions or short-term care for those recovering from surgery, hospital stays, or injuries. Here are services in skilled nursing facilities that are often included:

Help with personal care
Rehabilitation services
Palliative and hospice care
Health care
Transportation services
24-hour supervision

In Seattle, the average cost of assisted living is $6,246 per month, and the average cost of memory care is $6,508 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.^[02] These figures include associated fees and service fee add-ons. You’ll notice these numbers are lower than the national average cost of a nursing home because residents don’t need 24/7 skilled nursing care.

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, vs. state and national averages

Seattle, WA

$6,062/mo

Washington state

$5,805/mo

U.S. national average

$5,847/mo

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, vs. other senior living options

Assisted Living

$6,521/mo

Memory Care

$7,920/mo

Independent Living

$4,262/mo

Nursing Homes

$6,062/mo

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, by floor plan type

Semi-Private

$5,917/mo

Private

$6,058/mo

Senior living costs in Seattle vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 4 rows of data across 4 columns.

Column communityType: Community type

Column destination: Seattle, WA

Column state: Washington

Column national: U.S.

Community type	Seattle, WA	Washington	U.S.
Nursing Homes	$6,062/mo	$5,805/mo	$5,847/mo
Assisted Living	$6,521/mo	$6,480/mo	$5,830/mo
Memory Care	$7,920/mo	$8,229/mo	$6,999/mo
Independent Living	$4,262/mo	$4,089/mo	$3,520/mo

Nursing Homes

Seattle, WA:$6,062/mo

Washington:$5,805/mo

U.S.:$5,847/mo

Assisted Living

Seattle, WA:$6,521/mo

Washington:$6,480/mo

U.S.:$5,830/mo

Memory Care

Seattle, WA:$7,920/mo

Washington:$8,229/mo

U.S.:$6,999/mo

Independent Living

Seattle, WA:$4,262/mo

Washington:$4,089/mo

U.S.:$3,520/mo

Table showing 5 of 4 items. Click to show less.

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly nursing homes costs have shifted over the past five years in Seattle 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.

Seattle, WAWA stateNational

Nursing homes cost trends in Seattle, WA

The table below shows how monthly nursing homes costs in Seattle 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 average 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

Location	2024 average cost	2023 average cost	Percent change
Seattle, WA	$6,977/mo	$6,848/mo	+1.9%
Washington	$6,956/mo	$6,714/mo	+3.6%
National	$6,098/mo	$5,866/mo	+4.0%

Seattle, WA

2024 average cost:$6,977/mo

2023 average cost:$6,848/mo

Percent change:+1.9%

Washington

2024 average cost:$6,956/mo

2023 average cost:$6,714/mo

Percent change:+3.6%

National

2024 average cost:$6,098/mo

2023 average cost:$5,866/mo

Percent change:+4.0%

Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

What families are saying about nursing homes in Seattle

Recent reviews for nursing homes in Seattle

Spring Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care in Tacoma, WA

4.0

We are very happy with Spring Ridge. Our Mom is in the memory care facility and she has settled in well! The facility is very nice, clean and the residents are well taken care of.

Regency on Whidbey in Oak Harbor, WA

5.0

I've been very pleased. I have a nice 1100 square foot cottage apartment. The food is excellent, and I've gained some pounds I have to say! For each meal, they have about 4-5 things on the plate, at about 1/2 cup serving each, so you get a big variety without an overly huge amount of food, ...

Norse Home in Seattle, WA

5.0

The experience has been going very well for my friend. The community is a good fit for her and she likes it very much. My friend likes the meals they provide. Every time we have been there it has been clean, it is quiet impressive. I would definitely recommend this place to others.

Paying for a nursing home in Seattle

Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, or memory care can be paid for in a few ways. Private options, such as savings accounts, are commonly used alongside public options, such as Medicaid or Medicare. While some people choose to use one funding method to pay, most people prefer to use a mix of private and public funding.

In this section, you will learn about how private funding, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare can all be used to help pay for different types of senior living facilities.

Private funding options in Seattle

There are many different ways people can pay for skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care facilities using private funding. The most common are savings and pensions, Social Security benefits, and investment returns. However, there are also the following options:

Senior Living

5 Things to Consider When Selling a House to Pay for Senior CareBy Kevin Ryan

Caregiver Resources

Using a Reverse Mortgage to Pay for Long-Term Senior Care: Pros and ConsBy Nicole Gregory

Caregiver Resources

Using Life Insurance to Pay for Long-Term Care: 5 OptionsBy Nicole Gregory

Caregiver Resources

Using HSA Funds for Long-Term Care ExpensesBy Celia Searles

Assisted Living

Does Long-Term Care Insurance Cover Assisted Living?By Chacour Koop

VA benefits for nursing homes in Seattle

If you or your loved one served in the military, they can use a VA Pension to pay for skilled nursing, assisted living, or memory care facilities. Veterans can receive a pension if they are a certain age, were honorably discharged, and meet other eligibility requirements. To apply, click here.

There’s also the Aid and Attendance benefit, which can be used for medical and nonmedical expenses in long-term care. If you or your loved one served during a wartime, you may be eligible for that or other veteran benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Looking for a local program that can help veterans? The King County Veterans Program works with regional partners to provide financial, employment, housing, and other services to veterans in need of support.

To learn whether a veteran is eligible for these resources, it’s best to contact an organization local to Seattle that can walk you through the process. For instance, the Washington State Department Veterans Affairs connects veterans to their earned benefits and services. The Disabled American Veterans organization has a Seattle chapter, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Department of Washington can assist with eligibility, claims, and appeals.

24924

Number of veterans who live in Seattle, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Percentage of Seattle veterans that are 55 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Resources for Seattle veterans

Government offices

Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
1102 Quince St. SE
Olympia, WA 98504
Phone: 877-838-7787
Email: benefits@dva.wa.gov

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

VSOs and veteran resources

Ballard Eagleson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3063
2812 NW Market St.
Seattle, WA 98107
Phone: 206-782-8618
Hours: Thursday and Saturday, 11 a.m – 3 p.m.
Email: adjutant@vfwseattle.org

The American Legion Department of Washington
3600 Ruddell Road SE
Lacey, WA 98503
Phone: 360-491-4373
Fax: 360-628-8364

Disabled American Veterans
915 Second Ave.
Room 1040
Seattle, WA 98174
Phone: 206-341-8267
Phone: 888-604-0234
Hours (by appointment only): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and Wednesday, 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

The Seattle Public Library Veterans Services
1000 Fourth Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-386-4636
Hours: Thursdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

King County Veterans Services Program
Department of Community and Human Services
9725 3rd Ave. NE, Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206-263-8387
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Online guides

A Place for Mom Veterans Benefits Guide PDF

Service-related ailments PDF

Federal veterans benefits booklet

Seattle Medicaid for nursing homes

Known as Apple Health in Washington, Medicaid will fund some aspects of skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care facilities. However, it is limited.

For those who meet eligibility requirements, Medicaid covers all nursing home care provided in a Medicaid nursing facility.

When it comes to assisted living, Medicaid covers some costs of care in facilities that are licensed in Washington and accept Medicaid; coverage is provided through one of three service packages. Medicaid also covers in-home care through the Home and Community-Based Services Waiver (HCBS) program. This program allows Washington to use Medicaid for assisted living residents.

Medicaid will fund memory care costs depending on seniors’ needs and income. Similarly, it covers in-home care through the HCBS program. There’s also the Specialized Dementia Care Program, which Washington uses to support individuals with dementia who can’t live at home.

Several programs in Seattle are on hand to help navigate the eligibility and claims process. The Aging and Long-Term Support Administration is a valuable resource for support while looking for the appropriate care option. Washington’s local ombudsman is also a vital resource to have on hand if you have questions or concerns about the facility you have chosen. Washington’s Community Living Connections Network exists to help connect residents to any program or benefits that could be helpful to their situation.

Seattle resident Medicaid resources

Medicaid assistance

Washington Apple Health
626 8th Ave. SE
Olympia, WA 98501
Phone: 800-562-3022
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Aging and Long-Term Support Administration
1737 Airport Way S., Suite 130
Seattle, WA 98134
Phone: 206-341-7600
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5

Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman

1200 S 336th St.

Federal Way, WA 98003

Phone: 206-623-0816

p.m.

Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
1200 S 336th St.
Federal Way, WA 98003
Phone: 206-623-0816

Washington’s Community Living Connections Network

Medicare nursing home coverage in Seattle

Federal health insurance, Medicare, is available to people over the age of 65. Because Medicare doesn’t cover custodial care outside of a nursing home setting, it can only be used for certain medical services. As such, it can only fund short-term stays at skilled nursing facilities when a doctor determines them to be medically necessary.

Medicare Part A covers short-term skilled nursing care if a qualifying patient has days left on their benefit period and has had a three-day stay at a hospital. If these conditions as well as other factors are met, Medicare will cover things like physical and occupational therapy and medical supplies.

Because Medicare doesn’t cover rent or general living expenses, you can’t use it to cover room and board at an assisted living or memory care facility. Still, it does provide limited support. You can use Medicare to cover medical costs, such as physician visits, pharmaceuticals, and hospital stays.

The Medicare Savings Program can help seniors offset Medicare fees and deductibles. It is actually a program you have to apply for through Washington’s Apple Health (Medicaid). The Pharmaceutical Assistance Program can help eligible seniors pay for prescriptions. Some seniors will qualify for the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) that can help eligible seniors with various daily needs. Generally, seniors who dually qualify for Medicare and Medicaid may be eligible for PACE.

For questions about using Medicare to fund skilled nursing, assisted living, or memory care facilities, the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) in Washington offers free and confidential assistance with Medicare queries. For additional support, Seattle residents can contact the local Social Security Administration. For advocacy and support, Washington’s ombudsman is on hand to help explain and assist.

Seattle resident Medicare resources

Apply for Medicare

Apply for Medicare online

Seattle Social Security Administration
915 Second Ave., Suite 901
Seattle, WA 98174
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Medicare assistance

Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors
1501 N 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98103
Phone: 206-753-4806
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Aging and Long-Term Support Administration
1737 Airport Way S, Suite 130
Seattle, WA 98134
Phone: 206-341-7600
Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
1200 S 336th St.
Federal Way, WA 98003
Phone: 206-623-0816

Providence ElderPlace (PACE)
4515 Martin Luther King Jr Way S
Suite 100
Seattle, WA 98108
Phone: 206-320-5325
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Understand Washington laws and regulations for nursing homes

Skilled nursing facility regulations

In Washington, skilled nursing facilities must be licensed by the state and are regulated at a federal level by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

On the state level, the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) regulates nursing homes in Washington. This organization is responsible for performing inspections, which are available on the DSHS website’s nursing home locator. Inspections are broad but include ensuring a registered nurse is on duty at all times, an appropriate staff ratio to residents, and that residents get at least 3.4 hours a day of direct care.^[04] Federal law requires the state to conduct full inspections, unannounced, at least every 15 months.^[05]

For additional information on skilled nursing facility regulations in Washington, the following resources are also available:

Assisted living facility regulations

In Washington, assisted living facilities must also be licensed by the DSHS. To become licensed, an assisted living facility must complete an application; meet certain health, safety, and comfort requirements; and be inspected by a DSHS surveyor. The facility will be inspected regularly to ensure it continually meets the department’s criteria.

You can find these inspection reports on the Washington State DSHS website. You can type in a ZIP code, the city name, or the name of a specific facility in the search box. PDFs of the reports will then be available for download. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, you can also request inspection reports and licenses here. You can also report any complaints or violations.

Memory care facility regulations

Memory care facilities in Washington must be licensed as assisted living facilities by the DSHS. This means a facility must complete an application, meet certain requirements, and be regularly inspected. DSHS will ensure compliance with state regulations. Requests for inspection reports and licensing can be made via the DSHS website. You can also look them up here by clicking on “advanced ALF search.” then searching by county, city, or ZIP code, and — finally — by selecting “Dementia Care” under “Specific Criteria.”

What requirements do memory care facilities need to meet? According to this policy, facilities must meet certain standards in regard to staffing, medication management, safety and security, and resident care. For example, staff members at memory care facilities must have dementia care training. Additionally, these facilities must have individualized resident care plans, including specialized programming and activities designed for people with memory impairments.

The following links provide additional information on laws and regulations around assisted living and memory care facilities:

Washington Department of Health contact information

Washington State Department of Health
111 Israel Road SE
Tumwater, WA 98501
Phone: 800-525-0127
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Seattle nursing homes

Washington has rescinded many of its state COVID-19 guidelines to better align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. However, like many long-term care facilities, nursing homes follow guidelines from the Washington Department of Health and the CDC.

Vaccinations. Guidelines recommend that staff and residents are vaccinated and up-to-date on boosters.

Masking. It is recommended that staff wear well-fitted masks, like the N95 mask, and eye protection where appropriate.

Facility cleanliness. Dedicated medical equipment must be used on residents who are suspected or have a confirmed case of COVID-19. Additionally, routine cleaning, disinfection of surfaces, and optimized ventilation and filtration are recommended.

Quarantining. Staff should only move residents who have COVID-19 from their rooms when it is medically necessary.

What to expect from nursing homes in Seattle

In Seattle, nursing homes, assisted living, memory care facilities trend toward upscale, luxury living. Residents will enjoy mild summers, scenic views, and the benefits of urban life.

Amenities and services will vary depending on the senior living option you or your loved one pick. In the following sections, we’ll go over what to expect from each type of facility in Seattle as well as which requirements you may encounter.

Understanding skilled nursing

While many people use the term “nursing home” to discuss any senior living option, government agencies use the term to refer to skilled nursing care. Skilled nursing facilities primarily focus on care for people with significant health conditions. They provide hands-on care services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, wound care, intravenous therapy, injections, and medical equipment and vitals monitoring.

A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with any nursing homes. However, we do partner with 153 assisted living and memory care communities in Seattle. These facilities may be a better fit for you or your loved one.

What assisted living and memory care communities are like in Seattle

Assisted living and memory care is a more appropriate senior living choice for people who are able to live more independently.

In terms of care, seniors at assisted living or memory care facilities benefit from typical services like housekeeping, personal care, meal preparation, scheduled social outings, medication management, and more. Some combination facilities may also offer skilled nursing services or a skilled nursing wing.

When it comes to amenities and activities, many facilities offer enclosed walking spaces, stretching classes, and yoga or chair yoga for some on-site physical activity. Group spaces, such as libraries, courtyards, and game rooms, give residents places to socialize. Dining is also a provided amenity, and most facilities offer specialized diets for those who need it. For example, almost all of our in network facilities offer vegetarian dining options. If you have a beloved cat or small dog, more than half of the facilities in our partner communities offer pet-friendly services, too.

Seattle nursing homes services and amenities

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

Availability of select care services in Seattle nursing homes

Nursing homes communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of nursing homes partners in Seattle that offer these care services compared to the percentage of partners that offer them nationally.

Seattle, WANational

Full medication management

74.7%

2.5%

Doctor on call

32.3%

9.7%

24-Hour awake staff

90.5%

23.7%

Diabetic care

92.4%

24%

*Visiting health care professionals

73.4%

10%

Home care agency on-site

32.9%

0.8%

Non-ambulatory care

90.8%

20.4%

Respite or short term stays

59.5%

6.9%

Hospice available on-site

73.1%

17.5%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

*Including nurse, dentist, OT, PT, speech or podiatrist

Availability of select dementia care services in Seattle nursing homes

Our community partners provide many services to keep residents with dementia or other memory concerns safe and engaged. Below, take a look at what percentage of Seattle Nursing Homes partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.

Seattle, WANational

Dementia behaviors care

70.3%

Specialized memory care training for staff

52.8%

0.3%

Secured community and/or wander guard

51.3%

5.5%

Memory care only community

24.4%

1.2%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Seattle nursing homes

Nursing homes communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Seattle partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.

Seattle, WANational

Nutritionist / dietician

41.8%

0.6%

Low / no sodium

69.9%

1.4%

No sugar

63.9%

1.4%

Vegetarian

69.9%

3.5%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Seattle nursing homes

Our nursing homes communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Seattle communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.

Seattle, WANational

Professional chef

61.1%

0.2%

Restaurant style dining

63.9%

0.5%

Room service

63.3%

0.3%

Anytime dining

44.3%

0.7%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Seattle nursing homes

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered nursing homes communities in Seattle offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.

Seattle, WANational

Activity director

70.9%

0.4%

Pet-focused programs

50%

0.3%

Community service programs

50%

0.3%

Devotional activities on-site

68.7%

6.5%

Parties / BBQs / happy hour

71.2%

0.5%

Outings / off-site activities

75%

6.6%

Piano or organ

64.2%

0.4%

Arts and crafts center

62%

0.3%

Educational speakers / life long learning

64.9%

0.3%

Clubs / games / karaoke

69.9%

0.4%

Live performances

70.9%

0.4%

Dances

53.2%

0.2%

Fitness center

41.5%

0.3%

Fitness classes

69.9%

0.4%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Explore senior care with confidence

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Find top facilities for you.

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Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.

Download touring checklist

Unfamiliar with Seattle? Highlights for seniors

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Seattle

13%

Percentage of seniors 65 and older within Seattle

Median annual income for Seattle seniors 65 and older

Health care for seniors in Seattle

Seattle has a number of top-tier health care options, from the nationally recognized University of Washington Medical Center to several well-regarded clinics specializing in senior care.

University of Washington Medical Center

Named as one of the best teaching hospitals in the nation, UW Medical Center ranks nationally in seven adult specialties and is known for high-quality cancer care, nephrology, and urology programs.

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health

Taking a patient-centered health care approach, Virginia Mason is well-known for its care in orthopedic care, cancer care, and digestive disorder programs.

Overlake Medical Center

This Bellevue-based medical center, just 10 miles from downtown Seattle, was qualified by U.S. News and World Report as “high performing” in 13 different adult procedures.

Providence Regional Medical Center

With two campuses in Seattle, this general medical and surgical facility has been named the best Seattle Metro area hospital by U.S. News and World Report.

University of Washington Geriatrics Clinic

Part of UW Medical Center, this geriatrics clinic prioritizes care for people over the age of 75. It offers various services, from primary care, to memory care and palliative care.

VA Puget Sound Health Care System

Offering primary care and specialty health services, the VA Puget Sound Health Care facility focuses specifically on veterans’ unique needs.

Transportation for seniors in Seattle

While Seattle is known for being both walkable and bike-friendly, there are plenty of other transportation options available for you or your loved one. This includes public services as well as on-site transportation at our partner assisted living and memory care facilities.

Overall, 64% of our partner communities offer complimentary transportation, and 74% offer at-cost transportation services. These options are good for seniors in assisted living and memory care who may need assistance when traveling.

Visitors to the city and residents with more mobility will benefit from the many public transportation methods available. Beyond the bus system operated by King County Metro Transit, which has extensive downtown coverage, there are also ferries and a streetcar system. The light rail serves downtown Seattle and the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

There are also options specifically for seniors and those who can’t access public transport. These include:

King County Metro Access Transportation has a shared ride service.
For rides to doctor’s appointments, Sound Generations has a shuttle service
The Via to Transit app offers on-demand, door-to-door transport.
Reduced rate community transit is available for people who have a hard time using regular buses.

Activities for seniors in Seattle

No matter what senior living option you or your loved one select, there will be plenty of recreational opportunities. Most nursing home, assisted living, and memory care facilities offer a variety of in-house classes and activities. This can include cooking lessons, arts and craft sessions, music therapy, gardening, scheduled board and card games, and more.

Seattle also has a diverse variety of downtown activities and sights you or your loved one could visit. For instance, art and music lovers will appreciate Seattle’s Museum of Flight, Museum of Pop Culture, and Art Museum. All three museums offer senior discounts and accommodations for disabilities and mobility issues. For those who love theater and live music, the event guide EverOut lists dozens of timely theater and concert options to choose from.

Sitting between Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, Seattle has many beautiful natural areas. If you or your loved one enjoy the outdoors, there are many accessible walking trails, calming parks, and tranquil gardens. For instance, the Japanese Garden and Volunteer Park Conservatory are both wonderful ways to spend an afternoon; they have plenty of benches and rest areas where you can sit and enjoy the surroundings.

Seattle has two casinos nearby: Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort, which also has a spa, and Muckleshoot Casino, which has an array of gaming options and touts its status as the state’s largest smoke-free table games area.

Do you or your loved one like live sports? Get tickets to a major league baseball game to see the Mariners or an NFL game to watch the Seahawks. Other professional teams in Seattle include the Kraken hockey team, the Seattle Storm WNBA team, and the Seattle Sounders soccer team.

References

Genworth. (2021). Median Cost of Nursing Home, Assisted Living, & Home Care. Genworth.
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101): Seattle, Washington; United States [Data set]. QuickFacts.
Washington State. (2022, June 29). RCW: NURSING HOMES—RESIDENT CARE, OPERATING STANDARDS. WA.gov.
ALTSA. (n.d.). Long-Term Care Residential Options. Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.
U.S. News. (2023). Best Hospitals in Seattle, WA.

More questions?

Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.

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“My Senior Living Advisor was fantastic. He sat and listened to what we needed and wanted, and within 90 minutes a place was already calling to set up a virtual tour.”

- Joy Harper

fantastic virtual tour

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10 Best Nursing Homes in Seattle, WA

Nursing Homes Facilities near Seattle, WA

Our free advisors can help

Our methodology

How we rank order the Seattle community options above

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

350,000+ reviews

What nursing homes cost in the Seattle area

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, vs. state and national averages

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, vs. other senior living options

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, by floor plan type

Senior living costs in Seattle vs. state and national costs

Nursing homes costs in Seattle, WA, over time

Nursing homes cost trends in Seattle, WA

What families are saying about nursing homes in Seattle

Recent reviews for nursing homes in Seattle

Paying for a nursing home in Seattle

Understand Washington laws and regulations for nursing homes

Skilled nursing facility regulations

Assisted living facility regulations

Memory care facility regulations

Washington Department of Health contact information

COVID-19 regulations for Seattle nursing homes

What to expect from nursing homes in Seattle

Understanding skilled nursing

What assisted living and memory care communities are like in Seattle

Seattle nursing homes services and amenities

Availability of select care services in Seattle nursing homes

Availability of select dementia care services in Seattle nursing homes

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Seattle nursing homes

Availability of select dining options in Seattle nursing homes

Availability of select programs and activities in Seattle nursing homes

Explore senior care with confidence

Unfamiliar with Seattle? Highlights for seniors

Health care for seniors in Seattle

Transportation for seniors in Seattle

Activities for seniors in Seattle

References

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