Senior Living Apartments in Vancouver, WA
Vancouver, Washington, has no shortage of outdoor activities. Famous for its miles of bike trails, stunning nature parks, and the Columbia River, Vancouver is the perfect destination for adventurous seniors. Just a short drive from Portland, Oregon, Vancouver’s coastal climate lets residents enjoy the local attractions, restaurants, shops, and entertainment year-round. History buffs will find museums and historic sites to visit, while those ready to relax and socialize can enjoy a number of community centers that host senior-specific activities. Additionally, Washington has no state income tax, which has made Vancouver a popular city among retirees.
Senior apartments in Vancouver offer residential living for active, independent seniors. Many are designed with activity in mind, offering easy access to nearby recreational activities, cultural events, fine dining, shopping, and entertainment. While senior apartments in Vancouver don’t feature on-site nursing or assisted living options, they often boast an array of amenities and features for seniors. These include on-site fitness centers, accessibility options such as ramps and wide door frames, and designated areas for walking or playing with pets.
In this guide, seniors can find details on local senior apartment communities within a 10-mile radius of Vancouver’s city center. Since many senior apartments within 10 miles of Vancouver are in Portland, Oregon, seniors can also find additional information about senior apartment regulations, payment options, and senior-specific resources in both Washington and Oregon.
Senior Apartments Facilities near Vancouver, WA
Well, The Canyons is really just an apartment building with community activities, more than a senior facility. That's great if, like me, that's what you need. The senior residents love that there are people...
It's a great place. I would recommend to others. We picked this community because of the price, and it was the only one available.
We're pretty happy with Affinity. We definitely tell people they have a lot to offer. It's like a little mini resort, with lots of activities. Everybody is friendly and seems to be really helpful and...
The care at this community is good. The staff are outstanding. I am happy having a clean community to live in. I know that I have recommended other families to this community for a great place to live.
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- Costs of senior apartments in the Vancouver area
- What families are saying about senior apartments in Vancouver
- Paying for senior apartment communities in Vancouver
- Understand laws and regulations for senior apartment communities
- What to expect from senior apartments in Vancouver and Portland
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Vancouver? A few highlights for seniors
Costs of senior apartments in the Vancouver area
The average monthly cost of senior apartments in Vancouver is $1,813, although prices can range from $1,203 to $2,029.[01] These costs include only rent. Seniors may also be charged for the following, in addition to their rent:
- Utilities
- Parking fees
- Pet rent
- amenity fees
As with any apartment, the cost varies by location, floor plan, amenities, and any additional services.
The following figures represent the average baseline costs for the immediate area and do not always include additional fees. This chart is best read as a comparison between Vancouver and nearby communities.
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Vancouver, WA vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Vancouver, WA vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Vancouver vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Senior Apartments in Vancouver, WA by room type
What families are saying about senior apartments in Vancouver
Recent reviews for senior apartments in Vancouver
Hazelwood Community Apartments in Portland, OR
Vintage at Vancouver
Affinity at Vancouver
Paying for senior apartment communities in Vancouver
Most people pay for their senior apartment using their own income or savings. Programs like Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care insurance don’t cover the cost of senior apartments in Vancouver. However, these funds can be used to cover the cost of in-home medical care. Various payment options are still available to those looking for a senior apartment.
Some seniors may also qualify for housing assistance programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or other local organizations. Additionally, veterans may be eligible for VA benefits to help cover the costs of senior apartments. Read on to learn how to pay for your senior apartment using your savings, veterans benefits, and public aid.
Most seniors use private resources to pay for the rent and any associated fees when living in a senior apartment. These resources often include retirement savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, distributions from retirement accounts, and income generated by investments. There are other ways to use your financial assets to keep your dream apartment within reach. Explore the articles below to learn more.
13,959 veterans live in the Vancouver area, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
56% of Vancouver veterans are over the age of 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Veterans in the Vancouver area may be able to use some veterans benefits to cover the cost of a senior apartment. If a senior receives the VA pension and needs assistance, they may also be eligible for the VA Aid and Attendance benefit. Both the VA pension and the Aid and Attendance benefit can be used to pay for anything that improves the veteran’s quality of life, including rent for a senior apartment.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program also issues vouchers to offset the cost of housing for veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Veterans benefits counselors
For further assistance, consider contacting the Clark County Veterans Assistance Center or any one of the multiple veterans service organizations located within the Portland Regional VA Benefits Office. It’s here where veterans can receive much-needed help in navigating the complex VA benefits system, as well as learn more about the resources available that may help offset the cost of living in a senior apartment building or community.
Additionally, local American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) can also connect veterans with other resources and veteran service officers that can help them navigate the process.
Resources for veterans
Clark County Veterans Assistance Center
1305 Columbia St.
Vancouver, WA 98660
Phone: 360-693-7030
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Vancouver VA Medical Center
1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd.
Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: 360-759-1901
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Regional VA Benefits Office
100 S.W. Main St.
Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 800-827-1000
Schedule an appointment
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs
700 Summer St. NE
Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 800-692-9666 or 503-373-2085
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Portland VA Medical Center
3710 S.W. U.S. Veterans Hospital Road
Portland, OR 97234
Phone: 503-220-8262
Multnomah County veterans service officers
Contact: Sheila Balbin, program supervisor
Phone: 503-988-8386
Vancouver Veterans of Foreign Wars
Phone: 360-696-4583
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. (by appointment only)
Vietnam Veterans of America – Vancouver Chapter
Phone: 360-695-5456
Email: district18rep@msn.com
Salmon Creek American Legion Post 176
14011 NE 20th Ave.
Vancouver, Washington 98686
Phone: 360-573-2331
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 4 Vancouver
PO Box 871211
Vancouver, Washington 98687
Phone: 360-209-4189
Email: davvancouver@gmail.com
Medicaid is a state-run health insurance program for low-income individuals. Washington State’s Medicaid program is called Apple Health. In nearby Portland, Oregon, the Medicaid program is called the Oregon Health Plan (OHP).
Medicaid will not pay for rent at a senior apartment. It can, however, cover medically necessary in-home health care services received at a senior apartment through the home and community based services (HCBS) waiver program.
In Washington, Apple Health Long-Term Services and Supports is the program that will help eligible individuals receive in-home care. For those in Oregon, the state provides home and community-based services through waivers and its K Plan.
Vancouver Medicaid application support
The Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of Southwest Washington operates an Information and Assistance Program to help seniors understand the ins and outs of Medicaid. The agency also operates the Long-Term Care ombudsman program, which helps answer questions and resolve issues around long-term care.
Washington residents can apply for Medicaid online or in person at the Vancouver Home and Community Services office.
Portland Medicaid application support
The Multnomah County Aging and Disability Resource Connection provides 24-hour information and assistance to seniors who need help enrolling in Medicaid or searching for resources. The OHA ombudsman program has a staff of advocates ready to assist as well. You can call the local Ombudsman directly.
Oregon residents are advised to apply for the Oregon Health Plan online. In-person applications can be made at the local Department of Human Services office, or you can request a paper application be mailed to you. This Oregon Health Plan handbook covers everything you need to know about the plan.
Medicaid resources
Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of Southwest Washington
201 N.E. 73rd St.
Vancouver, WA 98665
Phone: 360-694-8144
Email: clarkadrc@dshs.wa.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Southwest Washington Long-Term Care Regional Ombudsman Office
Contact: Neil D. Degerstedt
Phone: 360-694-9007 or 360-992-4076
Email: neil.degerstedt@dshs.wa.gov
Home and Community Services – Vancouver Office
800 N.E. 136th Ave., Suite 220
Vancouver, WA 98684
Phone: 360-397-9500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Aging, Disability and Veterans Services – Central Office
209 S.W. Fourth Ave., Suite 510
Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 503-988-3646
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Oregon OHP Ombuds Program
500 Summer St. NE, E20
Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 877-642-0450
Email: oha.ombudsoffice@odhsoha.oregon.gov
Oregon Department of Human Services
11826 N.E. Gilsan St.
Portland, OR 97220
Phone: 971-673-0909
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for anyone over 65. Medicare won’t cover the cost of rent for a senior apartment, but can help seniors cover some of their medically necessary assisted living costs, including in-home health care. Seniors with AIDS or HIV may be eligible for pharmaceutical assistance through Oregon’s CAREAssist program or Washington’s Early Intervention program.
There are several types of Medicare plans available:
- Medicare Part A and B. Medicare Parts A and B, also known as Original Medicare, covers hospital stays, skilled nursing, lab tests, doctors’ visits, and home health care.
- Medicare Part C. Medicare Advantage or Part C plans are provided by private insurance companies and offer additional benefits, such as prescription drug coverage, but may have a limited provider network.
- Medicare Part D. Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage and can be added to Parts A and B.
- Medigap. Medigap is a supplemental insurance plan that offers extra coverage for things like copays and overseas medical care after Medicare A and B.
Vancouver Medicare assistance
Medicare benefits generally go toward paying for medically necessary health care services (i.e., inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, short-term in-home care, certain physicians’ services, etc.), not toward any portion of the rent for living at a senior apartment building or community.
However, Medicare can still benefit seniors living independently. For example, the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) offers assistance with premium costs, copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance for seniors entitled to Medicare and meet eligibility requirements.
Other supplemental Medicare resources that could be of benefit include:
- Washington State Health Insurance Pool (WSHIP). WSHIP provides health insurance coverage to Washington State residents who’ve been denied coverage due to a pre-existing condition. Call 800-877-5187 for more details.
- Washington Prescription Drug Program (WPDP). WPDP offers a state-sponsored program to provide savings on prescription drugs for Washington state residents. Seniors may also want to look into the ArrayRx discount card, which provides discounts on over-the-counter medications.
- Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisor (SHIBA). The SHIBA, also known as the Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of Southwest Washington, can be a great resource for seniors looking for information and assistance involving Medicare. Call 360-735-5720 for more details.
- Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). This program provides a wide range of services to eligible seniors, including medical care, dental care, prescription drug coverage, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and more.
- Long-term Care Ombudsman. The role of a long-term care ombudsman is to ensure that residents of long-term care facilities receive high-quality care and that their rights are respected. They work to investigate and resolve complaints, improve the quality of care more broadly, and serve as an advocate for residents and their families. Call 1-800-562-6028 to learn more.
Portland Medicare assistance
For Oregon seniors with Medicare Part A and a limited income, Medicare Savings Programs may help cover Medicare premiums. It’s important to note that Medicare and Medicare Savings Programs don’t cover room and board in senior apartments in Portland. To find the best Medicare program for your needs, apply for Medicare Savings Programs online.
Similar to Washington, Oregon offers the Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) services, which bridge the gaps in Medicare Parts A-D. PACE coverage includes primary care, prescription drugs, transportation to appointments, and therapies. Seniors can find more details on the state website. Oregon residents also have access to Statewide Senior Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) programs, which provide a local network of trained volunteers dedicated to educating and advocating for those who have or need Medicare.
To apply for Medicare online or get assistance with Medicare benefits and Medicare Savings Programs, contact the local Social Security Administration office. Seniors can also connect with the county’s long-term care ombudsman, who can help clarify senior rights and serve as an advocate for Portland area residents.
Medicare resources
Vancouver Social Security Administration Office
805 Broadway St., Suite 500
Vancouver, WA 98660
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of Southwest Washington
201 N.E. 73rd St.
Vancouver, WA 98665
Phone: 360-735-5720
Email: clarkadrc@dshs.wa.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Home & Community Services Office
800 N.E. 136th Ave., Suite 220
Vancouver, WA 98684
Phone: 360-397-9500
Local Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Southwest Region
Neil D. Degerstedt
Phone: 360-694-9007
Email: neil.degerstedt@dshs.wa.gov
Washington State Health Care Authority
Phone: 800-562-3022
Portland Social Security Office
1538 S.W. Yamhill St.
Portland, OR, 97205
Phone: 888-632-6990
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Multnomah County Aging and Disability Services
421 S.W. Oak St., Suite 510
Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 503-988-3646
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Local Long-Term Care Ombudsman – Portland
830 D St. NE
Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 503-378-6533
Email: ltco.info@rights.oregon.gov
While seniors in need of housing assistance often rely on federal government programs for aid, Vancouver has its own program as well. The Vancouver Housing Authority (VHA) provides subsidized housing for seniors who are 62 or older and meet certain income requirements. Alternatively, Oregon Housing and Community Services can help seniors in Portland find affordable homes and get in contact with their local Public Housing Agency (PHA).
The Housing Choice Voucher Program may cover some of the cost of a senior apartment
It may be of benefit to look into the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Housing Choice Voucher Program, which allows very low-income families, including seniors, to lease privately owned rental housing through its voucher program. Just make sure that the senior apartment community accepts Housing Choice Vouchers, as not all do.
Social Security may pay for some of your senior apartment
Another option that can help offset the costs of living in a senior apartment community would be Social Security. The most common option is the Social Security Retirement benefit, which is a monthly check that replaces part of your income when you retire. There’s also the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which provides assistance to seniors who meet the requirements for disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) also provides assistance to seniors with no work credits but requires some form of disability to be eligible, while Social Security Survivor’s Pensions provide assistance to widows and widowers of workers with work credits.
Get help applying for housing assistance in Vancouver and Portland
To apply for public assistance for senior apartments in Vancouver or Portland, seniors may visit their local Social Security Administration (SSA) office or apply online at the SSA’s website. Seniors will need to provide documentation to demonstrate their eligibility for assistance, such as proof of income and assets. Seniors should confirm their eligibility for public assistance before beginning the application process.
Seniors in Portland can also look into Home Forward, the Housing Authority of Portland that provides assistance obtaining a housing choice voucher and offers rental assistance for seniors.
Vancouver resident public assistance resources
Vancouver Social Security Administration Office
805 Broadway St., #500
Vancouver, WA 98660
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Portland Social Security Administration Office
1538 S.W. Yamhill St.
Portland, OR 97205
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
909 First Ave., Suite 200
Seattle, WA 98104-1000
Phone: 206-220-5101
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Vancouver Housing Authority (VHA)
2500 Main St., Suite 100
Vancouver, WA 98660
Phone: 360-694-2501
Translator: 360-694-2501
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Oregon Housing and Community Services
725 Summer St. NE, Suite B
Salem, OR 97301
Phone: 503-986-2000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Home Forward – Housing Authority of Portland
135 S.W. Ash St.
Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 503-802-8300
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Understand laws and regulations for senior apartment communities
Senior apartments in Vancouver offer seniors the chance to live independently in a safe and comfortable environment. Senior apartments in Vancouver and Portland don’t require special licensing apart from the regulations of standard apartment complexes. These include required maintenance and repair of any risks to tenants’ physical health.
However, senior apartments do have added age requirements that typically start at 55. Some low-income senior apartments also have income requirements to offer affordable options for seniors.
Safety standards for Vancouver senior apartments
Owners of senior apartments in Vancouver and Portland must maintain safe and healthy living environments by meeting the following requirements:
- Homes should be completely waterproof and weatherproof
- Each home should have hot and cold water that’s safe to drink
- Homes should be equipped with heat sources capable of heating the whole unit
- Electrical equipment should be installed correctly in homes
- Home appliances must be in good condition and functioning properly
- Appropriate smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed and functioning effectively
- Homes must be clean and pest-free
Vancouver senior apartments follow federal accessibility laws
Senior apartments in both Vancouver and Portland are also required to be compliant with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide reasonable accommodations and modifications for their tenants. The Fair Housing Act prohibits housing providers (or owners of senior apartments) from refusing residency to individuals based on age, race, gender, or disability. Additionally, laws require housing providers to offer all tenants with disabilities reasonable accommodations and modifications in all housing, programs, and activities.
Housing providers must also pay for property modifications unless it would pose an undue financial burden. Examples of these accommodations and modifications include:
- Assigning a parking spot for easy entry
- Moving a tenant to the ground floor for easier access
- Changing the due date of rent to reflect disability income payment dates
- Installing grab bars in a tenant’s bathroom
- Widening doorways to provide easy wheelchair access
- Lowering countertop height to accommodate a wheelchair user
These types of accommodations and modifications are federally required of senior apartments through the Fair Housing Act, Section 504, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which provide equal housing opportunities to people with disabilities.
Additional details on governing rules and regulations of senior apartments can be found on the City of Vancouver website or in the Portland Elderly and Disabled Density Housing PDF.
Inspections of senior apartment communities
Senior apartments in Washington go through regular inspections. To find inspection reports on senior apartments in Vancouver, Washington, go to the website of the Washington State Department of Commerce Housing and Community Services Division. You’ll find a searchable database of licensed facilities, including senior apartments, with recent inspection reports and other information on the facilities.
For seniors in Portland, navigate to the PortlandMaps website and enter the address of any senior apartment community in the Portland area. This will provide property and inspection information, as well as utility and public safety records.
For senior apartments subsidized and certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Washington State Department of Commerce and the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services perform frequent inspections in Vancouver and Portland, respectively. These inspections ensure that the housing is decent, safe, sanitary, and in good repair.
Additionally, you can contact the Vancouver Housing Authority or Portland Housing Bureau for more information. These organizations manage affordable housing for seniors and may have inspection reports or other information on senior apartments in the area.
Further reading:
- Review tenant and landlord resources in Washington
- Review tenant’s rights, laws, and protections in Oregon
Washington Department of Health contact information
Washington State Department of Health
111 Israel Road SE
Tumwater, WA 98501
Phone Number: 800-525-0127
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Clark County Public Health
1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd.
Vancouver, WA 98661
Phone: 564-397-8000
Oregon Department of Health contact information
Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division
800 N.E. Oregon St.
Portland, OR 97232
Phone: 971-673-1222
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Multnomah County Health Department
619 N.W. Sixth Ave.
Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 503-988-3674
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Vancouver senior apartment communities
Washington and Oregon encourage all individuals to follow the CDC guidelines for COVID-19. At this time, there are no specific COVID-19 regulations for senior apartment communities in Vancouver or Portland. That said, both cities recommend that new residents take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and those who also reside in the community.
For more information, check the Clark County website or Multnomah County website for current COVID-19 recommendations.
What to expect from senior apartments in Vancouver and Portland
Senior apartments in Vancouver and the nearby city of Portland are designed for active adults aged 55 and above. For many, senior apartments are more than just a place to live; they offer an active and independent lifestyle with similar peers. Here, older adults can pursue their passions while enjoying the comforts of home. Senior apartments in Vancouver and Portland also have family-like atmospheres that help residents — and their furry friends — feel at home.
Amenities for hassle-free living
In both Vancouver and Portland, senior apartments boast the ease and convenience of hassle-free living. There’s no need to worry about expensive home maintenance, mowing lawns, or shoveling driveways. Seniors can also travel and explore their community without worrying about their home’s safety or unexpected expenses.
Activities and opportunities for socialization
Many senior apartments in Vancouver and Portland boast a wide range of activities that offer residents plenty of opportunities for entertainment and socialization. At some apartment complexes, these amenities include an indoor saltwater pool and spa, fitness center, dog park, game room, craft studio, card room, and much more. Residents can also enjoy spending time outdoors with a community garden and outdoor kitchen.
Some senior apartments even have access to an on-site dog park and dog wash station, which is perfect for seniors who want to have some quality time with their pets. With so many amenities, residents can enjoy their day as they please and stay active within the community.
Floor plans that feel like home
Vancouver senior apartments offer several floor plans to cater to any senior’s lifestyle. Similarly, Portland senior apartment floor plans offer all the amenities and luxuries that help turn a house into a home. All units come with high-speed internet access, Wi-Fi, and cable-ready capabilities, while many also offer satellite TV and surround sound.
Air conditioning and heating are also available in each unit, along with a trash compactor and sprinkler system. Storage units are also available, ensuring that residents can store their belongings with ease.
A luxury feel
Inside many units, seniors can find a washer and dryer, a tub/shower combo, and a cozy fireplace. The kitchens are equipped with stainless steel appliances, including a refrigerator, freezer, oven, range, microwave, dishwasher and disposal. Many units also boast hardwood floors or luxury vinyl plank flooring, as well as crown molding and double-pane windows. Walk-in closets provide ample storage space, and many units feature a balcony, patio, or deck for outdoor enjoyment.
Residents can also enjoy community amenities such as a dining room, recreation room, and workshop, making it easy to socialize and stay active. For those with mobility needs, wheelchair-accessible rooms are available. With numerous amenities and accessibility options, these apartments offer an ideal living situation for any senior looking for a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle.
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Unfamiliar with Vancouver? A few highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Vancouver[03]
Median annual income for Vancouver seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Vancouver
There are numerous health care options available within Vancouver and the surrounding areas for seniors. The top-rated facilities are noted below:
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, a not-for-profit health care system that is ranked No. 9 in Washington according to U.S News & World Report, offers a range of services, from primary care and family medicine to geriatrics and pain management. The facility has been recognized for its heart and vascular care, earning the Coronary Intervention Excellence Award.
Oregon Health & Science University (OSHU) Hospital
Ranked No. 1 in Portland according to U.S. News and World Report, OHSU hospital is nationally ranked in six specialties. The hospital is particularly high-performing in senior health procedures such as heart conditions, orthopedics, and pulmonology.
Providence St. Vincent Medical Center
Ranked No. 2 in Portland according to U.S. News and World Report, Providence St. Vincent Medical Center is high-performing in neurology and cancer procedures.
Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center
The No. 3 hospital in Portland according to U.S. News and World Report, Kaiser Permanente has excellent rankings in gastroenterology and diabetes-related procedures.
Transportation for seniors in Vancouver
Vancouver has a reliable public transportation system, but residents generally get around either by car or by bike. In fact, Bike Clark County offers resources for residents looking to bike as an alternative to other transportation options.
For seniors looking to use public transportation, the best option is often the C-TRAN, which has a total of 27 routes and is accessible for people with disabilities. This service also offers on-demand ride-sharing within Vancouver. Community in Motion is another local service that provides rides for seniors 65 and over at a cost of no more than $2.50 per day or $28 per month to visit the doctor, attend social events, go shopping, and so on.
While many seniors do use public transportation, Vancouver is somewhat walkable, especially in the neighborhoods of Arnada, Hough, and Shumay. Otherwise, most residents are car-dependent. The city has an overall walk score of 41 out of 100 and an overall bike score of 59 out of 100.[04]
Transportation for seniors in Portland
Portland is known for being one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S., with a vast network of bike lanes, bike boulevards, and dedicated bike paths. It scores an 83 out of 100, according to Walk Score.[06] Residents or visitors interested in joining Portland’s flourishing biking scene can learn more on the Bike Portland website.
Seniors and their family members can also get around Portland using public transit. The primary public transportation system in Portland is TriMet, which operates buses, light rail, and streetcars throughout the city and surrounding areas. The MAX light rail system connects downtown Portland with the suburbs, and the Portland Streetcar serves several neighborhoods in the city.
Additionally, many neighborhoods in Portland are highly walkable, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and other amenities located within easy walking distance. However, car-sharing services such as Zipcar are also available. These services allow users to rent cars by the hour or by the day, making it easy to get around the city without owning a car. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also prominent in Portland, providing convenient options for those who prefer not to drive.
WalkScore for Vancouver, Washington
WalkScore rates cities for their walk-ability, bike-friendliness, and public transportation. Each score is out of 100. Vancouver received the following scores:[07]
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Vancouver
Vancouver’s natural beauty and entertainment make it a haven for active seniors. History buffs, for instance, might find the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site of interest. The same can be said for the Clark County Historical Museum, Pearson Air Museum, Officers Row, and the Cedar Creek Mill, which is actually an active plant that holds tours for visitors to see the manufacturing process of corn meal, flour, and apple cider. And, of course, no one should miss the Vancouver Land Bridge.
Outdoor attractions
For seniors who enjoy the great outdoors, there’s always Silver Star Mountain for hiking and panoramic views of Mt. Rainier, Mt. Hood, and Mt. Saint Helens. Or, the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge to get in a little birdwatching (or a little deer watching, depending on the time of year).
There’s also the John Stanger House, which has an array of flowers and tree gardens for everyone’s viewing pleasure. What’s more, seniors can participate in 50+ Forever Young Hikes, which offers numerous thrilling hiking experiences for any and all hiking background levels.
Entertainment and community
The area is also home to Firstenburg and Marshall/Luepke community centers, both of which offer a wide variety of activities and programs for seniors to remain active. Both centers also participate in the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, Silver&Fit®, and the Renew Active/One Pass Fitness Program. Call360-487-7038 for more information.
If seniors are more in the mood to socialize, the Luepke Center is open for drop-in use to play cards, cribbage, mahjong, and other card or board games. Check out the Firstenburg Community Center for card games and puzzles as well.
Senior activities in Portland
Residents at senior apartments in Portland — or seniors looking to travel just 10 miles away from the Vancouver city center for the day — can enjoy the wealth of experiences and entertainment available in this welcoming West Coast city. Portland is home to a rich history that is reflected in its many historical attractions.
Seniors who are interested in exploring the city’s past may want to visit the Pittock Mansion, a beautiful mansion built in 1914 that offers stunning views of the city and is filled with artifacts from Portland’s history.
The Oregon Historical Society Museum is another great destination, with exhibits that explore the state’s history from prehistoric times to the present day. The Portland Art Museum is also worth a visit, with a collection that includes works by local artists as well as pieces from around the world.
Outdoor attractions
Portland offers a wide range of outdoor attractions that are perfect for seniors who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. One of the most popular destinations is Forest Park, a sprawling park with over 80 miles of trails and accessibility accommodations. Another great outdoor destination is the International Rose Test Garden, which features over 10,000 roses and is one of the oldest rose gardens in the country.
For seniors who enjoy birdwatching, the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination, and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a breathtaking outdoor destination that offers stunning views of waterfalls, mountains, and the Columbia River.
Entertainment and community
Seniors fond of the arts and acting can enjoy performances at Portland Center Stage, which offers discounted tickets for patrons over 65. Portland also has numerous senior centers, such as the Hollywood Senior Center and the Multnomah County Aging and Disability Services, that offer a variety of programs and services.
Seniors can also connect with others through social groups and clubs, such as the Portland Women’s Club or the Rose City Senior Softball Association. Portland is also home to the NBA’s Trail Blazers franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Canyons PDX, Better Living Residential Care and Miracle Heights are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near Vancouver, WA. These Senior Apartments facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Senior Apartments in Vancouver is $2,117 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): Vancouver city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Vancouver city profile. American Community Survey.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals Washington.
U.S News and World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals Portland.
WalkScore. (2023). Vancouver.
WalkScore. (2023). Portland.
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