Located along the Scioto River in the heart of the Buckeye State, Columbus, Ohio, is the second-most populous Midwestern city, behind only Chicago. Columbus boasts a range of quality options to accommodate the needs and preferences of its growing senior population. With 45 assisted living communities among A Place for Mom’s Columbus senior living partners, your loved one can find a community that fits their unique lifestyle. Columbus’ assisted living communities are thoughtfully designed with cozy private living spaces, elegantly furnished gathering spaces, and favorable amenities. Outside the community walls, residents can find an endless array of cultural events, unique eateries, scenic parks, and lively attractions.
We’ve created this comprehensive guide to Columbus, Ohio, assisted living options based on our extensive senior living experience, proprietary data, and access to local senior living experts. Find information about payment options, health and safety regulations, and other resources for Columbus seniors below.
Find Assisted Living Communities Near Columbus, OH
Located along the Scioto River in the heart of the Buckeye State, Columbus, Ohio, is the second-most populous Midwestern city, behind only Chicago. Columbus boasts a range of quality options to accommodate the needs and preferences of its growing senior population. With 45 assisted living communities among A Place for Mom’s Columbus senior living partners, your loved one can find a community that fits their unique lifestyle. Columbus’ assisted living communities are thoughtfully designed with cozy private living spaces, elegantly furnished gathering spaces, and favorable amenities. Outside the community walls, residents can find an endless array of cultural events, unique eateries, scenic parks, and lively attractions.Read more
We’ve created this comprehensive guide to Columbus, Ohio, assisted living options based on our extensive senior living experience, proprietary data, and access to local senior living experts. Find information about payment options, health and safety regulations, and other resources for Columbus seniors below.
Columbus Assisted Living Facilities | 1735 Reviews
The whole community has a home like feel. The friendly staff truly care about the residents and their families. The Executive Director sets the tone and pleasant atmosphere you get when you enter the...
The facility is very nice. It's clean and very well decorated for all occasions. The staff is very nice. They seem to know who you are quickly. They are willing to help and they make the residents feel...
Our family has been so pleased with the attention to detail and caregiving our loved one is receiving. We like enjoying meals and activities with him too!
It is amazing. The facility is beautiful and always clean. Atmosphere is always upbeat. The staff is so nice. My mom has been there 5-6 weeks and it feels like family.
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My loved one is currently a resident at Westerwood in Independent Living. I have been very pleased with everything at this facility. The staff and fellow residents are so friendly and accommodating. The...
We picked this community because of the cost, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner is included in the cost. Also, if you need assisted living it is there. They help with cleaning and keeping the room clean. The...
I love living at beautiful Stone Oak Retirement Community. I am happy, safe and busy My family doesn't have to worry about me. Everyone is very friendly and our many activities are outstanding. I can have my...
I would recommend Sage Park Transitional Assisted Living and Memory Care to others. The staff were helpful with the move-in process. They're always willing to answer questions. I understand that it takes a...
The housekeeping seems very good. Communication with the family is very little, unless you go in person and ask, then it is great face to face. I would highly recommend the facility to others.
I would tell a friend, the staff is so friendly and helpful. It's an older place but kept very clean. When touring the place was given excellent information & shown model unit & unit she would move in. We...
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The cost was within budget! One of the cheapest independent living facility around! Really the only one I could find in budget! Everyone at Claremont is really friendly and helpful! Initial communication...
The food and food service has been below average. They run out of an item but do not relay this information and sometimes they will substitute while other times do not substitute. They have staffing issues....
Overall the facility is clean and the staff members that work with the residents are very attentive to their needs.... I would recommend The Woodlands of Columbus to others looking for care for loved ones.
I would recommend! The tour experience was really pleasant and informative. We picked this community because of staff knowledge and friendliness, the accommodations and location.
I've lived here now for 5 years and it's been a great experience. I love my apartment and the staff but most of all, I love the people here. This is an educated community where people are able to have actual...
My loved one was not there long enough to enjoy any activities. And I have the same rating for the hospice there! Super overall & would recommend to anyone! Their care and understanding to me as well as...
[name removed] is top-notch in communication! it's obvious she cares about resident needs, life purpose, and ability to transition as changes occur in one's life. Inniswood is beautiful, comfortable, great...
I would let others looking into Brookdale Trillium Crossing know that they give a VA discount to veterans...also, the food is amazing!
It was a good experience overall but my Mother did not want to be there. We tried out for 2-week respite for a break for me as caregiver.Good recommendation from 'A Place for Mom", I liked the staff; price...
This community was 10 min from our home and it was in our daily path. It was also close to the VA. This community had a homey feeling and the staff was very friendly and helpful! I would recommend to others
It was a wonderful facility for my dad. Dad's last months were spent there and they made it an experience we treasured. The staff in the facility were a blessing to Dad and our family.
The staff were responsive to our needs, especially one of the nurses. Had plenty of activities for whomever wished to participate. And fellow residents were friendly. My loved one was not thrilled with the...
They are very caring for their patients. They do a good job of checking on them and looking out for them. The administration is top. Meals seemed to be bland and seems cafeteria style.
I chose Friendship Village because of a lot of good recommendations from folks and they have all proved out to be true. The apartment sizes are bigger than other facilities that we looked into/have lived in....
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The medical staff, including nursing, has gone over and above to make sure that I am comfortable, and my condition is being handled with the upmost care. They are controlling the pain to the best of their...
- Costs of assisted living in the Columbus area
- How people pay for assisted living in Columbus, Ohio
- Understand Ohio laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
- Get to know assisted living in Columbus, Ohio
- What to expect from assisted living in Columbus
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Columbus, Ohio? Highlights for seniors
Costs of assisted living in the Columbus area
Assisted living communities in Columbus cost an average of $4,837 per month, according to A Place For Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This figure represents the actual amount paid by seniors referred to our partner Columbus assisted living communities. This cost includes rent plus the costs of add-ons, such as the following:
- Health care services
- Pet fees
- Parking and transportation
- Room amenities
- Salon and spa services
- Special diets
- Concierge services
- Community social outings
The rates outlined below represent a baseline of assisted living costs in the Columbus area before add-on fees.
Average cost comparisons near Columbus, OH
Average monthly costs
Columbus, OH
How people pay for assisted living in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus residents can combine several private and public assistance options to help pay for assisted living. An assessment of your loved one’s unique financial circumstances will help you determine the best way to pay for room, board, and personal care in assisted living.
If they have the resources, your loved one may be able to fund assisted living care in Columbus through private pay methods. Private pay methods can include any income source, such as your loved one’s savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, investment returns, and any of the following:
If your loved one is a U.S. military veteran, they may be able to receive financial support from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that can help cover the cost of an assisted living community. Veterans pension benefits, such as the Aid and Attendance benefit, can help senior veterans and their surviving spouses improve their quality of life with supplemental income.[03]
Veterans service officers
The application process for veterans benefits can be challenging. Even for eligible veterans, successfully applying usually requires assistance or advocacy. You can receive assistance and referrals from veteran service officers in your area by visiting one of the Ohio Department of Veterans’ Affairs field offices. As fellow veterans who are trained and certified in benefits offerings, veteran service officers are available to help Ohio senior veterans get the most out of their eligibility.
Additional assistance with VA benefits
You can visit the Ohio Department of Veterans Services webpage or contact the local VA office for assistance with finding veterans benefits. The Ohio Attorney General website offers information on additional community resources for veterans, including the following:
- Financial support
- Legal advocacy
- Housing assistance
- Rehabilitation
The VA oversees Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) in each state, including specialized departments for aiding veterans with disabilities and veterans of foreign wars. Find information on Columbus Veteran Service Organizations below.
Number of veterans who live in Columbus
About 62% of Columbus veterans are 55+.
Resources for Columbus veterans
Franklin County Veterans Service Commission
280 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-525-2500
Veterans Services Coordinator
Zane Jones
77 N. Front St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Email: zdjones@columbus.gov
Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS)
Verne Riff State Office Tower
77 S. High St., #7
Columbus, OH 43215
ODVS home page
ODVS Veterans Service Offices finder
ODV state veteran benefits
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
VFW — Ohio
Phone: 614-224-1838
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
DAV — Ohio
35 E. Chestnut St., Suite 503
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-221-3582
Columbus VA Clinic — Chalmers P. Wylie Veterans Outpatient Clinic
420 N. James Road
Columbus, OH 43219
Phone: 614-388-7650
Mental health line: 614-257-5631
Medicaid is a federal- and state-funded program that offers medical insurance coverage to Americans with disabilities or low incomes. While each state’s Medicaid program varies, all Medicaid programs must follow federal guidelines. Ohio’s Medicaid program is simply named Ohio Medicaid. To receive Medicaid benefits in Ohio, your loved one must be enrolled in a managed care organization (MCO), and the agency providing the care services must be contracted with that MCO. Ohio Medicaid has programs that can be used to cover care services in an assisted living community.
Assisted Living Medicaid waiver
Ohio Medicaid offers an Assisted Living Waiver program which, as the name suggests, is intended to provide coverage for qualified Ohio residents in an assisted living community. The Assisted Living Medicaid waiver will cover costs associated with personal care and medical care, but room and board costs will need to be covered by the senior’s income or other financial resources.
The Ohio Assisted Living Medicaid waiver can be used to cover two categories of services: Assisted living services and community transitional services.
Assisted living services include the following:
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- 24-hour emergency response
- Housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation
- Nursing services
- Recreational programs
Community transitional services typically consist of moving a senior from a skilled nursing facility to an assisted living community, including moving their furniture and other household belongings.[04]
Ohio Medicaid PASSPORT waiver
The PASSPORT waiver is for Ohio residents age 60 and over. Eligible seniors can use this waiver to cover the cost of care in their own home, an assisted living community, or another senior living facility instead of moving into a skilled nursing facility.
The PASSPORT waiver can cover the costs of care needs such as the following:
- Personal care, such as assistance with activities of daily living, housekeeping, and meal preparation
- Nutritional guidance and meal delivery
- Adult day services
- Transport to medical appointments
- Medical equipment
PASSPORT waivers also include basic Medicaid coverage and may cover costs such as prescription medications, physician visits, and hospital stays.[05]
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Medicaid
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Medicaid offers coverage for seniors and individuals with qualifying disabilities. To qualify for ABD Medicaid, Ohio residents must meet Medicaid’s basic eligibility requirements and one of the following criteria:
- Be aged 65 or older
- Be legally blind
- Have a disability as defined by the Social Security Administration
Qualifying individuals can use ABD Medicaid to cover the costs of medical care, as well as some long-term care services.[06]
If your loved one is an Ohio Medicaid recipient, their care can be managed through the Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline Member Portal. The Ohio Department of Aging has several Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) where Ohio residents can receive additional support with Medicare, Medicaid, and other services. A long-term care ombudsman can also provide advice and advocacy on your loved one’s rights as a resident in senior living.
Columbus resident Medicaid resources
Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline
Ohio Medicaid Member Portal
Phone: 800-324-8680
Ohio Benefits Access
Ohio Department of Health Benefits
Ohio Department of Medicaid
50 W. Town St., Suite 400
Columbus, OH 43215
Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging
3776 S. High St.
Columbus, OH 43207
Phone: 800-589-7277
Ohio Department of Aging
Seek an Ombudsman.
Medicare is a federally funded program designed to extend health coverage to Americans 65 or older and individuals with qualifying disabilities. Medicare has multiple parts that cover different aspects of health care such as the following:
- Inpatient hospital stays or skilled nursing care
- Doctors’ services, medical services, and medical supplies
- Prescription medications
Medicare health insurance doesn’t cover the cost of room and board at an assisted living community; however, it will cover many of the costs associated with medical treatment, including dementia care. You can find more information on Medicare costs and coverage by visiting the federal Medicare website or by reaching out to one of your local Ohio Social Security Administration offices. Qualified seniors may get help paying for Medicare deductibles and premiums through Medicare Savings Programs.
The U.S. Social Security Administration can help seniors receive access to Medicare support. Your loved one may be eligible for dual enrollment in Medicare and Medicaid, which will enable them to pay Medicare premiums using Medicaid benefits. A local long-term care ombudsman can help your loved one access the benefits they qualify for and advocate for their rights. A long-term care ombudsman can also investigate complaints of long-term care residents and help ensure that seniors receive the quality of care they deserve. Find links to these resources below.
Columbus resident Medicare resources
Understand Ohio laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
Assisted living facilities, or residential care facilities as they are designated in Ohio, must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). The ODH performs facility inspections before licensing the facility and then a minimum of every 15 months after licensure.[07]
A residential care facility is defined as one of the following:
- A facility offering accommodations and care for a minimum of 17 residents who are not related to one another
- A facility offering accommodations and care services to three or more unrelated persons who are dependent on these services and offering skilled nursing to at least one resident
Ohio assisted living staff requirements
While there are no minimum staff requirements for residential care facilities in Ohio, facilities are required to employ the following types of personnel:
- An administrator who is responsible for overseeing the facility’s operations. They must be on-site at least 20 hours per week and available at all times when off the premises.
- If the facility offers personal care, there must be one member of the direct care staff trained in first aid on the premises at all times.
- If the facility provides medication administration, they must have a registered nurse, a physician, or a licensed nurse practitioner certified in medication administration on staff.
- If residents have late-stage cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, the facility must have a psychologist or physician either on staff or contracted with the facility.[07]
Staff in Ohio assisted living facilities must undergo proper training for their responsibilities, as outlined in Ohio Administrative Code Rule 3701-16-06.
Ohio assisted living service requirements
Ohio assisted living facilities must provide residents with the following services:
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- Recreation and social activities
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Provide either three meals per day or a food-safe storage for residents to take care of their own food[07]
Ohio assisted living building standards
Ohio assisted living facilities must uphold building code standards for health and safety. Each facility must be approved by the local certified building department.
Assisted living facilities are required to have their plumbing, electrical, and sanitation systems in safe and working order. They must comply with fire and carbon monoxide safety, have evacuation and disaster preparedness plans, and perform and document regular evacuation drills.[07]
You can access Ohio senior care facility inspection reports through the Health Care Provider Survey Reports. To look up a particular facility’s inspection report using this tool, select the category of care provider from the drop-down menu, then narrow your search by entering the county, the city, or the name of the specific organization you’re searching for.
For additional information on rights and resources, view the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging Housing Guide for Seniors and Individuals Who Have a Disabilities.
Ohio Department of Health contact information
Ohio Department of Health
246 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-466-3543
COVID-19 regulations for Columbus assisted living facilities
Ohio assisted living facilities are recommended to implement precautionary measures against COVID-19 in accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Individual communities may have their own rules in place. The general guidelines are as follows:
Testing. Staff and residents should be tested if they have come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or if they are experiencing symptoms.
Masking. Masks should be worn by individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, by health care workers who have contact with COVID-positive patients, and by individuals who are immunocompromised.
Quarantining. Patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 should be placed in isolation or in rooms with other COVID-positive patients.
Get to know assisted living in Columbus, Ohio
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What to expect from assisted living in Columbus
Columbus assisted living offers seniors an environment where they can receive personal care services that promote wellness and quality of life, while fostering as much independence as possible. Assisted living communities in the area feature elegantly furnished common areas where residents can relax, socialize over meals and cups of coffee, and participate in enrichment activities.
On-site amenities at our Columbus assisted living partner communities generally feature communal leisure areas and on-site conveniences like the following:
- Beauty salons/barber shops
- TV and movie lounges
- Patios
- Fitness centers
- Library/media centers
- Dining areas
- Cafes/bistros
- Bars/pubs
- Central fireplaces
- Game/craft rooms
At our Columbus assisted living community partners, residents can enjoy cozy private accommodations with convenient features like the following:
- Private balconies or patios
- High-speed internet
- Kitchenettes
- Wheelchair accessible showers
- Multiple floor plan options
- Ground floor units
- Bath tubs
- Cable or satellite TV
Finally, as a resident of Columbus assisted living, Ohio seniors can get the most out of their retirement with many service offerings dedicated to improving their quality of life. From dignified personal care to errands and home upkeep, assisted living services in Columbus typically include the following:
- Ambulatory assistance
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- Incontinence care
- Medication management
- Diabetic care
- Restaurant-style dining
- Maintenance services
- Housekeeping services
- Management staff on-site
- Transportation services
- Laundry and dry cleaning
- Planned events and recreational activities
- Grocery and errand services
Multiple tiers of care on one campus
Out of our partnered Columbus communities offering assisted living, over 82% feature some combination of independent living, assisted living, and memory care, all in the same community. Communities that integrate multiple levels of care enable residents to conveniently transition to a support level that fits them if their needs change, making it ideal for aging in place. Having multiple care types together also offers more variety among residents, often providing more opportunities for friendships and social engagement, regardless of an individual’s specific level of need.
Social opportunities in and around Columbus assisted living
Columbus assisted living offers residents an array of social opportunities, both in the community and in the surrounding neighborhoods. Dubbed “everyone’s neighborhood” for its inclusivity and its variety, downtown Columbus offers events at the Columbus Commons, beautiful views at popular rooftop restaurants, and lovely riverside parks on the Scioto Mile. Downtown Columbus is easy to traverse on foot or through public transportation.
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Unfamiliar with Columbus, Ohio? Highlights for seniors
101698
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Columbus
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Columbus population
33495
Median annual income for Columbus seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Columbus
Columbus is home to two state-of-the-art teaching and general medical hospitals.
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
According to U.S. News and World Report, Wexner Medical Center is ranked No. 1 in Columbus and No. 2 in the state of Ohio. Wexner is a general medical facility and teaching hospital. It is nationally ranked in nine adult specialties, including cardiology and cancer treatment.
OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital
OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital is ranked No. 2 in Columbus, according to U.S. News and World Report. Riverside is OhioHealth’s largest hospital and is outstanding in neuroscience, cardiovascular care, and cancer treatment.
Transportation for seniors in Columbus
Of A Place for Mom’s partner assisted living communities in Columbus, 79% offer complimentary transportation services, and 63% offer at-cost transportation to residents. Whether transportation is complimentary or at-cost may depend on whether or not the community offers on-demand or scheduled services. Distance may also affect pricing. For residents in communities without transportation, Columbus is highly walkable and bikeable, and it has great public transportation options.
The Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAA) comprehensive Transportation Guide offers information on free and low-cost transportation dedicated to serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.
For the out-and-about residents, the city of Columbus boasts an award-winning public transportation system, the Central Ohio Transit Authority, or COTA. The American Public Transportation Association awarded COTA its Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award in 2018 and 2020. With buses serving an over 1.2 million people, COTA has innovative trip planning tools and multiple services, like Bike and Ride or Park and Ride. It also features the free Emergency Ride Home system to make sure Columbus residents don’t get stranded. Depending on their own individual needs, some seniors may want to bring a caregiver along for their safety and well-being.
Most errands in the downtown Columbus area can be accomplished on foot. The city has a bike share system called CoGo in addition to other public transportation options. Further outside of downtown, however, Columbus residents are more likely to need a car to get around easily.[10]
Walkscore.com has ranked downtown Columbus as “very walkable” with the following transportation ratings out of 100:
80
Walk Score
85
Transit Score
63
Bike Score
Senior activities in Columbus
Columbus offers a wealth of events to its residents, including its growing senior population. Below, find highlights of area attractions, family-friendly fun, continued education opportunities for seniors, and more.
Columbus attractions
Columbus offers unique experiences for all ages, both educational and entertaining. Family favorites include the following:
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
- Franklin Park Conservatory
- Columbus Historical Society
- Columbus Museum of Art
The city also has miles of trails for hiking, and professional sports for any season and preference. The city’s North Market — a 150-year-old farmers market — features locally grown produce, food samples to taste, and more. When you’ve had your fill of activity, enjoy a meal at one of Columbus’ many rooftop restaurants.
Columbus dining
A foodie destination, Columbus has restaurants to suit any taste. There’s food to please meat lovers and herbivores alike, all ranging from the comfort foods of the Midwest to the exotic delicacies of Spain, Italy, or Germany. Find distilleries, breweries, bistros, coffee shops, delicatessens, and food truck gatherings, all in the Experience Columbus restaurant guide.
Columbus cultural experiences
For lovers of the performing arts, Columbus is abundant with experiences. The Columbus theater district has four large theaters:
The Columbus Symphony features breathtaking orchestral performances. For the music lovers with more modern or eccentric tastes, the Columbus Theater site will direct you to local concerts, plays, musicals, stand-up comedy, and more. Columbus also hosts a myriad of festivals, from Pride festivals to celebrations of various cultures, as well as art, music, and literature festivals.
Columbus 55+
Columbus has many community centers where seniors can participate in various activities and enjoy numerous membership benefits, such as priority registration for classes, activities, vacations, and educational trips. Members also get a Leisure Card which gives them access to community centers and swimming pools. Columbus’ six golf courses offer an unmatched golfing experience for putters of any skill level.
Columbus Recreation and Parks offers social opportunities for residents age 55 and over, including fitness programs and arts and special interest classes. Grandparents and grandkids aged 8 to 12 can get some quality time at Gram and Gramp Camp, where all can participate in structured activities and enjoy quality time together.
Senior artisans can also sell their wares at Golden Hobby Gift Shop, an arts and consignment shop that sells quilts, pottery, paintings, and other one-of-a-kind goods made by Columbus seniors. The Golden Hobby Gift Shop is itself an older Columbus resident, with over 50 years of selling members’ handmade products.
Frequently asked questions
Carroll Place, Middleton Senior Living and StoryPoint Powell North are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Columbus, OH. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Assisted Living in Columbus is 4988.08 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Columbus [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance.
Ohio Department of Aging. Assisted Living Medicaid Waiver Program.
Ohio Department of Aging. PASSPORT.
Ohio Department of Medicaid. Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD) Medicaid.
Residential Care Facility, Ohio Revised Code § 3701.16 (2018).
Center for Disease Control. (2022, September 27). Interim infection prevention and control recommendations for healthcare personnel during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103): Columbus. [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Columbus.
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