10 Best Independent Living Communities in Aurora, CO
If you like space, Aurora, Colorado, is the place to be. Because it’s a relatively large city, many of the neighborhoods, businesses, shopping centers, and other attractions may take some time to get to. At last count, the area had roughly 8,000 acres of open space. This has made the Gateway to the Rockies a popular destination for retirees, which is why the area features many different senior housing communities.
A Place for Mom partners with 11 independent living communities in the Aurora area. Most of these facilities were designed and built with the active senior in mind. At our partner properties, you may find on-site fitness centers, game rooms, billiards lounges, bistros, and even bars or pubs.
With almost a dozen housing options available, deciding on a community can be tough. That’s why A Place for Mom put together this guide detailing the independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of Aurora’s city center. You’ll find listings for senior apartment communities ranked by a variety of categories as well as details on payment options, applicable laws and regulations, transportation methods, nearby health care facilities, local senior activities, and more.
Aurora Independent Living Facilities | 912 Reviews
We would 1000% recommend Pinewood Lodge to other families based on the experience we have had so far, it is a great place. My dad is very happy there. We love pinewood and we are so glad you helped us find...
Bella Vita was responsive and helpful. The facility is clean and well run. The staff answered questions and went out of their way to make my mom feel welcome. I recommend the facility for those looking for...
I would recommend the community to others, with the caveat that not everything promised will be delivered. The community is very nice but some things were promised that aren't being provided. In general, my...
They do not seem equipped to deal with inter resident issues. There is a gentleman who constantly runs into people in his wheelchair and the staff have not figured out a way to resolve the issue.
It is very clean. They could improve on the consistency of care. I would caution people to look carefully regarding any assisted living facility.
I LOVE it here!! Just moved into my Villa last Monday, but stayed in a patio home while my place was completed for 2 months. I love how the community, staff and residents all support each other. Management...
There are issues in the dining room from time to time. We like that there are three different levels of care. Independent living, assisted-living and skilled nursing. My parents are in assisted living just...
As time goes by we are more and more happy with Garden Plaza. The majority of the staff is very experienced with the needs of the residents. The complex is laid out with a simple floor plan, wide halls,...
I like where I live I liked it since I moved in 3 years ago and you know it's like with any place you live or if you're working it's like any place you work it has it has its trying times but you know the...
[name removed] was at assisted-living for about three days. He then wandered off and kind of got lost. So they had me use helping hearts at home or helping hands at home. I don't remember what your name was...
Our free advisors can help
- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
- Evaluate pricing
Probably wondering why I give it a "5" based on other scores. This is my 3rd community in 6 years. I've been here 1 year and intend to stay. The nurse left off residents. Some weakness are fallout from COVID...
They staff is SO accommodating and kind. The facility is extremely clean. Very happy with our choice to put our Father at Brookdale Lowry They have been fantastic!
Staff has been very helpful and worked to accommodate my mom's individual needs. Communication is very good, which I appreciate a lot. The facility is clean and welcoming. We would recommend this community...
This is a great start to find a place for a family member who needs cares for a positive quality of life. My sister loves Sprinbrock. They helped her adjust to the transfer from her condo to assisted living...
When it comes to the activities - we are awaiting new Memory Support Director, hoping to see more activities and more varied activities. For the value for cost, expensive, care varies depending on staffing...
She needs more people of their staff. They have nice activities, but ny cousin is in her 60ies, but there is nobody less than 70 and they are not easy to let anyone new in. They also don't celebrate all the...
I would rate each category with a 5. My mom is so well cared for and loved by the staff at Modena. She is happy, always dressed well and clean. I can't praise Modena enough for all they do for my mom! My...
My mom is a resident at CuraVistas. The building was bought by a new company and has vastly improved. The Executive Director Jamie Bird is friendly and helpful. They recently hired a new activities person...
Great neighbors and great sense of community. Everyone helps each other. I love the bingo nights and all the activities and the manager [name removed] is a great manager. This is a wonderful place to call...
We have lived at The Village at Hampden Town Center for 6 years. We were so pleased to find a Senior Facility so close to shopping, light Rail and access to the major transportation arteries located nearby....
They are extremely friendly and have so many things and groups to do. All you have to pay is rent. All utilities included including TV/cable and internet. Having a garden to grow your vegetables is...
Our methodology
How we rank order the Aurora community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Aurora 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
- Costs of independent living in the Aurora area
- What families are saying about independent living in Aurora
- How people pay for independent living in Aurora
- Understand Colorado laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Types of independent living in Aurora
- Aurora independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Aurora? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in the Aurora area
Costs will vary from one independent living community to the next based on a variety of factors, including location, unit size, floor plan, amenities, services, and more. However, the average monthly cost in the Aurora area for one of our partner facilities is roughly $3,441, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[02] This figure includes rent, associated fees, and service fee add-ons.
The following figures represent the average baseline costs for the immediate area and do not include additional fees for ancillary services.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Aurora, CO vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Aurora, CO vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Aurora vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Aurora, CO by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Aurora over time
What families are saying about independent living in Aurora
Recent reviews for independent living in Aurora
Bethesda Gardens Thornton
Westhaven Apartment Homes in Lakewood, CO
Golden Orchard III in Wheat Ridge, CO
How people pay for independent living in Aurora
Paying for independent living can take many forms, but most seniors find themselves relying on personal funds to cover the monthly costs. The reason comes down to the simple fact that these communities are similar to traditional apartment communities — just with additional support.
However, other payment options may be available. To get a better understanding of the various methods out there, you’ll find additional details below on private resources, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Using a combination of personal resources to pay for an independent living community isn’t out of the norm. Seniors will use Social Security benefits, retirement savings, retirement accounts, pensions, income generated by investments, or any one of the following:
Number of veterans who live in Aurora
About 43% of Aurora veterans are 65 and older
Eligible veterans in Aurora can take advantage of a few VA benefits to help offset the cost of independent living, chief among them being the VA Pension. Wartime veterans who require assistance in day-to-day activities have another option: the Aid & Attendance benefit. Paid in addition to the VA Pension, Aid & Attendance can be used to cover the costs of any care-related services needed while living in a senior housing community.
Veterans with a service-connected disability or conditions made worse from military service may also be eligible for what’s known as VA Disability Compensation. This benefit can also be used to cover care-related services as well as direct housing costs. If you meet certain eligibility requirements, other disability benefits may be available. For instance, eligible veterans can use a Specially Adapted Housing grant to make changes to a home to live independently.
If you have questions about eligibility or run into any issues with the enrollment process, rest assured that you’re not alone. Many veterans will work with veterans services officers to help navigate the VA benefits system. Veterans services organizations (VSOs), such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans, can all connect you with a representative. The Arapahoe County Veteran Services Office and the Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs can also offer further assistance.
Resources for Aurora veterans
Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs — Lakewood Office
155 Van Gordon St., Suite 201
Lakewood, CO 80228
Phone: 303-914-5832
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Arapahoe County Veteran Services Office
15400 E. 14th Plaza
Aurora, CO 80011
Phone: 303-738-8045
Email: VeteranServices@arapahoegov.com
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Contact: Lisa Rogers, veterans services officer
Contact: Josh Medina, veterans services officer
16070 E. Dartmouth Ave.
Aurora, CO 80013
Phone: 303-680-6424
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday through Sunday, 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Disabled American Veterans — Aurora Office
14401 E. Exposition Ave.
Aurora, CO 80012
Phone: 720-261-5859
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3631
18545 E. Colfax Ave.
Aurora, CO 80011
Phone: 303-344-2463
Hours: Sunday through Thursday, 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.; Friday through Saturday, 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Health First Colorado, Colorado’s Medicaid program, can’t be used to offset the monthly costs associated with independent living. However, it can be of benefit should you need short-term in-home care services. You can apply through home and community based services waivers. The Elderly, Blind, and Disabled Waiver, for example, helps cover the cost of personal care services, homemaker services, and adult care services — among other benefits.
The Department of Health Care Policy & Financing has made applying for Health First Colorado relatively easy, providing four different options. You can apply online. You can also download the application and mail it to Health First Colorado at P.O. Box 35681, Colorado Springs, CO 80935, or you can drop off the application in person at the Arapahoe County Human Services department. If you so choose, you can apply by phone by calling 800-221-3943.
If you’re wondering about eligibility requirements or need assistance with the application process, a couple of options are available to you. The Denver Regional Area Agency on Aging and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman can answer your questions and help get you the benefits you need.
Aurora resident Medicaid resources
1570 Grant St.
Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 800-221-3943
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
1001 17th St., Suite 700
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-480-6700
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Because independent living falls under the category of custodial care, Medicare won’t cover monthly rent. This federal health insurance plan is designed to cover health care services such as short-term in-home care. The plan also helps cover the costs of inpatient hospital stays, physician fees, preventative care, and a range of other care services.
There are various Medicare-related programs that can help you navigate federal insurance and pay for covered services:
- Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program. QMB is a savings program that can help offset the cost of copayments, premiums, deductibles, and prescription drugs for eligible seniors.
- Qualifying Individual (QI-1) Program. QI-1 is an assistance program that can help in paying Medicare Part B premiums.
- Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program. Similar to QI-1, SLMB is an assistance program that helps in paying Medicare Part B premiums.
- Colorado State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Colorado SHIP helps Medicare enrollees navigate the Medicare system. The program also provides counseling and enrollment assistance for eligible seniors.
- InnovAge Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). InnovAge PACE offers care coordination, transportation, meals, and other services to eligible seniors.
The Medicare system can be confusing, so it’s normal to run into questions or require assistance. Help is available through the Denver Regional Area Agency on Aging and the Colorado Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. When it comes time to apply, you can find the application form below and then return to the Aurora Social Security Administration Office.
Aurora resident Medicare resources
Aurora Social Security Administration Office
14280 E. Jewell Ave., Suite 250
Aurora, CO 80012
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Colorado State Health Insurance Assistance Program
1560 Broadway, Suite 850
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 888-696-7213
InnovAge Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly
3551 N. Chambers Road
Aurora, CO 80011
Phone: 720-664-5455
Understand Colorado laws and regulations for independent living communities
Independent living communities are similar to residential communities; they just have age restrictions for residents. As such, no licensing requirements exist at this time. If, however, the independent living community offers assisted living or memory care, then it would require an assisted living community license or an alternative care facility (ACF) license. The ACF license would be for any community serving Medicaid-funded residents.
Regulations for independent living communities follow traditional landlord-tenant laws as well as those set by the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Public areas must be well-maintained and kept clean; utilities must be made available; and rental units must come equipped with basic appliances, heating, lighting, ventilation, and so on. Owners or operators cannot discriminate against you or offer less favorable terms and conditions if you are part of a protected class.
Additionally, reasonable accommodations must be made if you have a disability. If the building doesn’t have a ramp, for example, one must be built to provide access. The same would be true for widening doorways for someone who uses a wheelchair, installing grab bars in a bathroom for someone with mobility issues, or even adjusting the rental payment schedule to coincide with someone’s income assistance.
If an independent living community were to offer assisted living or memory care, regulations become more stringent. Standards would be set regarding administrators, staffing, training, oversight, community rules, and even mechanisms to address resident family concerns, as might be the case for any resident with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
All multifamily residential properties are subject to inspection, including independent living communities. Past inspection reports for communities offering assisted living or memory care are made available through the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment. Enter the name of the facility to review the list of inspections and any citations issued within the past five years. If you’d like to learn more about renter’s rights, you can find additional information on the Housing Authority of the City of Aurora’s website.
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
4300 Cherry Creek S. Drive
Denver, CO 80246
Phone: 303-692-2000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Aurora independent living communities
While Aurora has no specific COVID-19 regulations for independent living, it isn’t uncommon for some communities to establish their own guidelines. Contact a facility to learn more about its precautions or policies.
Vaccinations. Getting vaccinated is encouraged but not required.
Masking. Masks are encouraged but not required in public spaces.
Facility cleanliness. Individuals should regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces and common-use items.
Social distancing. Behaviors that reduce the spread of COVID-19 are encouraged.
Types of independent living in Aurora
Seniors choose to move to an independent living community for a number of reasons, and they will vary from one person to the next. For many seniors, it’s all about the amenities and services provided to residents. For others, it’s all about location, and Aurora, Colorado, provides natural splendor in spades. Here’s what to expect from the independent living communities in the Aurora area.
Socializing opportunities aplenty
Socialization opportunities are one of the main perks of moving to an independent living community. If you want to grab a drink with new friends, you can certainly do so at the on-site bar or pub on many of the properties. Pool sharks may be interested to know that they can always catch a pick-up game at many of our partner communities’ billiards lounges. There’s also the option of playing a little cribbage, euchre, or even mahjong if you choose to move to a community with a game room. If not, you can just chat with other residents as you flex your creativity at an on-site arts and craft center. The Aurora Cultural Arts District is also near many communities, offering theaters, art centers, and museums for socialization opportunities away from home.
Keeping active
Independent living is all about remaining independent — a fact not lost on the communities in our partner network. The majority of them (91%) make it easy to keep active with on-site fitness centers that are free to use for any resident.[02] You can also take advantage of one of the many parks in the Aurora area. The town presents a myriad of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and skiing.
Aging in place
Another thing to know about our 11 independent living communities in Aurora is that most ensure you or your loved one can “age in place.” Here is a breakdown of the facilities in our partner network:
- 2 stand-alone independent living communities
- 3 independent living and assisted living communities
- 5 combination independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities
- 1 combination independent living and senior apartment community
Many more options are available within a 25-mile radius of Aurora:
- 9 stand-alone independent living facilities
- 5 independent living and assisted living communities
- 15 independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities
Aurora independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Aurora independent living
Availability of select dining options in Aurora independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Aurora independent living
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with Aurora? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Aurora
Median annual income for Aurora seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Aurora
UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital
Earning America’s 100 Best Hospitals Award in 2021, UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital is an academic hospital that’s ranked nationally in diabetes and endocrinology; ear, nose, and throat; gastroenterology; pulmonology; and rheumatology.
The Medical Center of Aurora
The Medical Center of Aurora is an acute care hospital that’s ranked as high performing in heart failure, kidney failure, stroke, and chronic obtrusive pulmonary disease.
Kindred Hospital Aurora
Kindred Hospital Aurora is an acute, long-term care facility that offers a range of services, such as cardiac care, comprehensive rehabilitation, post-trauma, and stroke care.
Transportation for seniors in Aurora
Though not as big as Denver or Colorado Springs, Aurora is the third largest city in Colorado. In other words, the area is somewhat car-dependent, earning a transit score of just 35 out of 100.[07] This isn’t to say that there aren’t walkable neighborhoods. Northwest Aurora, Del Mar Parkway, or Dayton Triangle rank anywhere from 63 to 74 for walkability. Walk Score measures the walkability of cities across the country on a scale of 0 to 100.
Fortunately, all independent living communities in our partner network offer complimentary transportation. They also have parking available if you own a car. If you or a family need to get around town by other means, Aurora does have public transit options. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) runs one light-rail line through the center of the city. It also has various bus routes.
Anyone who is 65 and older can ride at a 50% discount with a Senior Special Discount Card. And for those who can’t use fixed-route public transit, RTD also operates the paratransit ride service, Access-a-Ride. You will need to go through an application process to use this service, but it’s currently subsidized up to $25. So, it may be of benefit to look into this option.
Another option that’s been made available to the senior community is through the Seniors’ Resource Center. Anyone 60 or older can take advantage of this no-cost ride service to run errands within a 10-mile radius of Aurora. Trips are available between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Call at least a day in advance to schedule a ride.
PrimeCare Colorado and A1 Medical Transportation are two additional private, nonemergency transportation services available in Aurora. They specialize in providing ambulatory, wheelchair, and stretcher assistance to cater to diverse mobility needs.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Aurora
The one thing anyone should know about Aurora is that it’s a city rich in culture and outdoor activities. Indigenous culture, in particular, has quite a rich history in the area. You need only look to the Plains Conservation Center for an example of that. The historical site offers visitors the chance to tour replicas of a homestead village and tipi camp.
If you’re thirsting for even more knowledge about the area, then you should definitely make a point of visiting the other free-to-enter historical attractions, including Coal Creek Schoolhouse, Centennial House, John Gully Homestead House, and the Delaney Round Barn. There’s also the Growing Home & Trolley Trailer No. 610 exhibit. The Aurora Museum Foundation spent four years restoring the trailer, so it’s definitely worth a visit.
As far as outdoor activities go, you won’t be disappointed by what Aurora has to offer. For one, you’ll find more than 100 miles of multiuse trails. Cherry Creek State Park alone accounts for roughly a quarter of trails, featuring the Cottonwood Creek Trail, Butterfly Hill Trail, Pipeline Train, and Pope Trail. Plus, the park offers visitors the opportunity to go fishing, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, boating, and more. There’s also the Aurora Reservoir and Quincy Reservoir for biking, fishing, sailing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
Art aficionados may want to check out Art in Public Places, a program that has brought more than 300 pieces of art from local and national artists into and all around the city. Check Gateway Park District, Havana District, Murphy Creek District, and Smoky Hill Cornerstar for just a sampling of some of the exhibits. There’s also The People’s Building, which has regular gallery exhibits, as well as the Aurora Cultural Arts District, which has a mix of art galleries and exhibits, live performances, and shopping.
Looking to meet other seniors in the area? Make a point to visit the Aurora Center for Active Adults. Adults 50 and older can take part in fitness classes, crafts, bingo, day trips, line dancing, and a number of seminars. Check the center’s schedule for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Brookdale Greenwood Village, Brookdale Meridian Arvada and Pinewood Lodge are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Aurora, CO. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Aurora is $3,971 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
City of Aurora, Colorado. (n.d.). Parks, Open Space & Trails.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). UCHealth University of Colorado.
U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Medical Center of Aurora.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Aurora.
More questions?
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
- Denver, Colorado
- Littleton, Colorado
- Parker, Colorado
- Lakewood, Colorado
- Castle Rock, Colorado
- Thornton, Colorado
- Broomfield, Colorado
- Highlands Ranch, Colorado
- Centennial, Colorado
- Arvada, Colorado
- Brighton, Colorado
- Greenwood Village, Colorado
- Lone Tree, Colorado
- Castle Pines, Colorado
- Englewood, Colorado
- Westminster, Colorado
- Wheat Ridge, Colorado
- Northglenn, Colorado
- Ken Caryl, Colorado
- Commerce City, Colorado