Columbia Assisted Living

The median cost of assisted living in Columbia for a single-occupancy apartment is $2,275/month (Genworth - 2013). This monthly cost typically includes rent, utilities, dining, housekeeping and transportation.

Columbia, located in the middle of Missouri, is the fifth largest city in the state. It has a population of a little over 100,000 and has been voted the second “Best Place to Live in the United States” by Money Magazine.

Residents of assisted living in Columbia will have multiple opportunities to enjoy the city known as “The Athens of Missouri.” Columbia lives up to its nickname due to the economic growth, quality healthcare and cultural opportunities that can be found there.

Columbia Attractions

Seniors who choose assisted living in Columbia enjoy a thriving music scene. The Roots ‘n Blues ‘n BBQ Festival attracts some of the best Jazz and Blues musicians from across the country, as does the Blind Boone Ragtime & Early Jazz Festival each year.

To sample music, food and fun from local retailers, Columbia seniors head to The District, the city’s thriving downtown corridor. Lined with historic architecture and home to more than 110 retail stores and over 70 restaurants, The District is a vibrant center of activity both day and night.

Columbia Senior Activities

The Fifty Plus Program offered by the City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department gives seniors the opportunity to participate in a variety of recreational activities such as fitness classes, crafts, games, tours, dancing and martial arts.

Activities for the program are held at the Stephens Lake Activity Center which has a large craft room and other multi-purpose rooms for various events.

Residents of assisted living in Columbia will enjoy interacting with other seniors while participating in the multitude of classes and activities offered by the city.

Columbia Medical Facilities

University Hospital is a 274-bed facility that provides critical care treatment for residents of assisted living in Columbia and other local citizens. The hospital has the only helicopter service and Level I trauma center in the area and also houses a diabetes center, sleep disorders center, burn intensive care unit and has the latest advances in medical technology. Other services at University Hospital include heart care, digestive health and orthopedic surgery.

Columbia Transportation

Public bus service is provided by Columbia Transit. Buses run Monday through Saturday with convenient business hours. Extended hours are offered Thursday through Saturday. Residents of assisted living in Columbia who are unable to ride the fixed route bus service due to a disability can take advantage of curbside paratransit service.

Seniors enjoying assisted living in Columbia feel like they are living in the cultural heart of Missouri due to the city’s fantastic festivals, delicious dining and gorgeous state parks. View a list of local assisted living communities on our Columbia Assisted Living page.

Written by senior housing staff writer.