10 Best Independent Living Communities in Spokane, WA

You can lean on different financial resources to fund your independent lifestyle in Spokane. Some sources can pay for rent, but others, like Medicaid and Medicare, cannot. This is mainly due to the fact that independent living communities are not classified as care facilities. However, you can still use both programs to offset your medical costs.

In this section, we’ll discuss the various types of payment options. You’ll learn more about private payment methods, VA benefits and resources, Medicaid, and Medicare.

Since independent living communities are not categorized as care facilities, they generally don’t have to be licensed. However, they will still be subject to applicable rental and housing laws. We’ll cover those particulars, plus regulations for assisted living and memory care since some of our partner communities offer this type of care under the same roof.

Fair housing for all

All independent living communities must be Fair Housing Act-compliant. This law prevents a landlord from refusing a potential tenant based on their circumstances, gender, race, age, religion, health conditions, family situation, or because they rely on assistance (like Section 8 vouchers). ADA compliance is another must, ensuring that seniors with disabilities are given easy access to entrances and amenities. Disabled residents with service animals must also be accepted even when no pets are usually allowed. However, landlords may decide whether they want to permit emotional support animals or not, as these pets are not technically viewed as service animals.

Maintenance and safety laws

Under Washington State law, landlords must maintain their property in such a manner that the safety and well-being of tenants are guaranteed at all times. Every relevant code, statute, ordinance, and regulation must be followed to ensure that the community’s premises remain habitable, safe, and sanitary.

Rental laws

Rental laws in Spokane exist to protect both parties. In independent living communities, landlords are allowed to hold tenants responsible when the latter causes property damage. The responsibilities of both parties must be clearly stated in the rental contract. Once signed, said responsibilities must be honored by both the tenant and landlord.

For example, a tenant must comply with rules and regulations, pay their rent on time, and never damage the property on purpose. Landlords must agree to perform all necessary repairs, keep the grounds safe, put out garbage bins, and deal with pests.

If you want more information about the rights of tenants in Washington State, this complete renter’s guide is a wonderful place to start.

Independent living age requirements

Entry requirements for an independent living community are generally not very strict. However, some insist on a minimum age for residents. Depending on the facility, this age can range from 55 to 62.

Laws for combined communities

In Spokane, three of A Place for Mom’s partners are standalone independent living facilities. Beyond that, one facility combines independent living with assisted living, and three communities offer both independent living care and assisted living plus memory care. Since they provide these services, they must abide by regulations that apply to assisted living. By default, we’ll also discuss memory care since it falls under assisted living as a subtype of care.

In Washington State, assisted living facilities must be licensed by the Aging and Long-Term Support Administration from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. The same department performs facility inspections every 15 to 24 months. These surveys cover quality of care, resident complaints, staff and resident interviews, and safety compliance. If you’re looking for inspection reports regarding a specific facility, you can use this facility locator.

Other laws that assisted living facilities must comply with include running security background checks on staff and not employing people with a history of abuse, keeping a sufficient number of trained personnel on duty at all times, providing care and security for all residents, and offering basic services such as housekeeping, laundry, activities, meals, snacks, and attention to special needs.

Washington State 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, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Spokane independent living communities

COVID-19 rules for seniors who are still active and not living in long-term care facilities are no longer so strict. People are free to decide which recommendations to follow. That being said, the City of Spokane advises citizens to get the latest vaccinations, wear masks when sick, and follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations for isolation should they be diagnosed with COVID-19 or suspect they might have it.

While things are relaxed at the moment, it’s worth noting that independent living communities might have their own COVID-19 regulations for residents to follow. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your chosen complex for more information.

Settling down in Spokane is a big decision; perhaps a little background color can convince you that this lovely city is the right place to settle in your golden years. In this section, we discuss the types of independent communities in Spokane and the amenities they offer, as well as give a snapshot of what the city is like.

A variety of independent living communities

A Place for Mom partners with seven independent living communities in Spokane. There are three standalone facilities, but what happens if you’re still active but your spouse requires personal care? Well, you can still live together in a combined community. In Spokane, three independent living facilities offer assisted living, and three others provide both memory care and assisted living under one roof.

The best local amenities

Amenities will differ based on the community, but you can expect a rich variety of personal services, entertainment, and room features. Most will offer different floor plans, complimentary transportation, fitness centers, barber and beauty shops, cable or satellite TV, a cafe or bistro, a billiards lounge, high-speed internet, resident parking, a library, and more.

A diverse, vibrant city

Spokane is known for its natural beauty and wealth of urban amenities. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike beautiful trails, ski during the winter, or explore the nearby lakes and rivers on a boat. Foodies can enjoy a diverse culinary experience in Spokane, home to restaurants that offer anything from tasty takeaways to chef-prepared meals. Art lovers can visit the city’s vibrant art scene and yearly festivals. Long-time residents also describe Spokane as a neighborly place to live.

Health care for seniors in Spokane

Transportation for seniors in Spokane

Walk Score data is a nice way to learn more about the walkability of a city. Places are scored on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 being the most desirable rating. Spokane has a score of 49.^[04] With a bicycle score of 52 out of 100, that means there is some infrastructure in the city to support biking.^[04] You can use this interactive bike route map to determine how to get around by bike. You can also make use of Spokane’s WheelShare program to use electric-assist bicycles and electric scooters in the city.

Older adults in Spokane can rely on many senior-friendly options, too. You can also utilize 1,700 City Bus stops. All their vehicles are ADA-compliant, and anyone 65+ qualifies for discounted fares. If you’re looking for a bus with more space to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, then The City Line is a better choice.  Vanpool is a good choice if you’re on a budget. For unlimited rides, you only pay $60 a month, provided that at least three other people in your area also want a ride somewhere close to your destination.

Senior activities in Spokane

Spokane provides endless opportunities for active seniors who want to socialize, integrate with nature, and explore different entertainment venues. In this section, we look at some of the best activities that are popular with seniors and their families.

Top outdoors activities for active seniors

Riverfront Park is a favorite destination for Spokane residents of all ages. There are many beautiful nature scenes to take in, but the property also offers activities, shopping, amusement rides, and restaurants. Centennial Trail attracts hikers who just want to walk in nature as it snakes for 38 miles along the Spokane River. Don’t forget to visit the spectacular Spokane Falls if you love waterfalls!

Art and history 

Spokane is known for its lively art culture. You can visit the Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox for different shows or listen to classical and original compositions at the Spokane Symphony House. There’s always something new at Gonzaga University, including performing musicians, comedians, and shows. If you’re feeling nibbly and arty at the same time, Steam Plant Square is the place to be. This well-known restaurant is also an art gallery.

Play golf or catch a sporting event

If you love playing golf, then Spokane’s four public golf courses are a must. For those days when you just want to relax and be a spectator, visit the Avista Stadium, home to the minor-league Spokane Indians, for an exciting baseball showdown. Spokane is also home to the Gonzaga University Bulldogs, whose gorgeous 152-acre campus is in the heart of downtown. The Bulldogs men’s basketball team contends for the national championship on a regular basis, and the women’s rowing team is nationally recognized for excellence.

Visit the best local gardens 

At Manito Park, you can browse 98 acres of land that includes miniature gardens and a popular restaurant. Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden is perfect if you love Japanese scenery, while Gaiser Conservatory offers visitors a chance to appreciate rare tropical plants. Both Nishinomiya and the Conservatory have benches for resting. Looking for a more interactive experience? At Green Bluff Farm, you can pick your own vegetables or sample their homegrown cider.

Spokane’s best senior centers

If you love socializing with others your age, there’s no shortage of senior centers in this city. Known for amazing camaraderie, you’re sure to make a new friend or learn a completely new skill! Just some of the top choices include Corbin Senior Activity Center, where people aged 55 and over are given access to a variety of health checks. You can also perfect your punch in their martial arts studio, win prizes on bingo night, or show your hand at one of their card game tournaments. Hillyard Senior Center focuses more on hobbies, workouts, and outings while Sinto Senior Activity Center organizes social events to encourage new friendships and better health through physical activities such as ballroom dancing and aerobics.