Assisted Living in Tacoma, WA

Read on for in-depth information about the top assisted living facilities in Tacoma, a brief dive into our methodology for determining the best assisted living communities, and a searchable directory of 49 communities in the Tacoma area.

How to Pay for Assisted Living in Tacoma, WA

Determining how to finance assisted living often starts with the question, “What’s the cost?” In today’s economy, where inflation plays a significant role, having current data is crucial for senior living financial planning. AssistedLiving.org has gathered cost information from its expansive network of over 75,000 senior living providers. This data offers a glimpse into the average expenses for assisted living in Tacoma and 60 additional cities within Washington.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Assisted Living in Tacoma, WA

Assisted living costs in Washington and the rest of the country have increased by varying amounts due to inflation. For example, the average cost for communities in Tacoma rose by 10% from 2022 to 2023. This rise matched the national rate increase, but was significantly lower than Washington’s 13.5% change.

Assisted living costs will go up even further in 2024. It’s estimated that Tacoma’s average will rise to $5,630. Seattle’s will increase to $5,073, and Olympia’s will leap to $6,702. Families will only be able to afford care going forward if they account for these changes in their financial planning.

Location	2022 Cost (Historical)	2023 Cost (Current)	2024 Cost (Estimated)
Tacoma	$4,772	$5,228	$5,630
U.S. Average	$4,070	$4,459	$4,802
Washington	$4,156	$4,743	$5,051
Seattle	$4,300	$4,711	$5,073
Olympia	$5,680	$6,223	$6,702
Spokane	$4,912	$5,381	$5,795

 

Assisted Living vs. Other Types of Care in Tacoma, WA

Not all types of senior care in Tacoma have the same price, as they offer different levels of service and amenities. Memory care, which provides specialized care and treatments for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive ailments, costs $3,297 more per month than assisted living. In contrast, independent living is about half the price of assisted living because it doesn’t provide daily living support services.

Care Type	Cost
Assisted Living	$5,228
Memory Care	$8,525
Independent Living	$2,628

 

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Tacoma, WA

Free and Low-Cost Assisted Living Resources for Seniors in Tacoma, WA

Numerous resources are available in Tacoma, WA to support seniors during their retirement. AssistedLiving.org has gathered data on local groups, initiatives, and agencies, and organized them according to care categories for convenient access.

For details about resources across the state and in neighboring cities, please visit the Washington state page on assistedliving.org.

 

Area Agency on Aging

Your local Tacoma Area Agency on Aging is a valuable resource for retirees, offering guidance on financial aid, in-home care, and long-term care planning. They also link seniors and caregivers to community resources.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources	800-562-0332	Area Agencies on Aging in Washington collaborate with state, federal, and local entities to address the unique needs of older adults and their caregivers. Seniors can access a range of in-home care services, both short-term and long-term, to cater to their medical and nonmedical requirements. These services encompass personal hygiene assistance, memory support, meal delivery, light housekeeping, and mobility aid. Additionally, seniors can benefit from nonemergency medical and nonmedical transportation, adult day service programs, medication monitoring, and community engagement opportunities. These comprehensive programs aim to empower older adults to maintain their independence and enhance their overall well-being.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care

Financial aid is available for seniors in Tacoma who prefer to age in place. Various local entities provide support for expenses like home care, home adjustments, and utility bills.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Lutheran Community Services Northwest – Tacoma	253-722-5686	LCS Northwest provides the Senior Companion program, a service that connects seniors who are socially isolated with volunteers of a similar age. These volunteers offer companionship and opportunities for interaction. Additionally, LCS Northwest offers the Senior Friends program, which aims to reduce isolation among older adults who live at home. The organization also operates a cost-effective meal delivery service for individuals who are unable to obtain groceries or prepare meals themselves. Furthermore, their Home Care program assists seniors with tasks such as shopping and housekeeping, making these activities less burdensome.

 

Food Assistance Programs

In Tacoma, various local initiatives are dedicated to promoting senior health through balanced nutrition. They offer services like meal delivery, communal dining, and food banks, ensuring elderly residents have access to affordable, nutritious food.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Meals on Wheels – Pierce County	253-722-5685	Meals on Wheels chapters can be found throughout Washington, serving as nonprofit organizations that specialize in the preparation and delivery of daily and weekly meals. These meals are carefully crafted to provide seniors with one-third of their daily nutritional needs. In addition to this vital service, Meals on Wheels also offers wellness and safety checks to ensure the well-being of their recipients. Some chapters even go the extra mile by delivering pet food and holiday gifts. It’s worth noting that these programs are typically operated at the county level in Washington.
Nourish Mobile Food Bank	253-383-3164	Located on the campus of Tacoma Community College, the Nourish Mobile Food Bank is dedicated to serving seniors in Tacoma, WA. Every Tuesday, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., this food bank provides nonperishable pantry items and canned goods to seniors who are facing financial difficulties. With the help of dedicated volunteers, we ensure that nourishing food is accessible to all seniors in need. You can find us in parking lot F on the Mildred side of the campus.
Nourish Pierce County Food Bank	253-383-3164	Nourish Pierce County Food Bank collaborates with Molina Healthcare, the Puyallup Tribe, Kroger, and various public and private organizations to operate six fixed-location and 14 mobile food banks across the county. These food banks serve a diverse range of individuals, including households with children and seniors. To ensure accessibility, there are no registration or ID requirements to receive a food package. However, visitors are kindly requested to provide their name, address, the number of people in their household, and their birthdates.
Tacoma Farmers Market- Broadway	253-272-7077	Washington offers a range of nutrition assistance programs designed to support vulnerable populations, including seniors, low-income families, and other at-risk groups. Eligibility for these programs is determined based on factors such as age, household income, and individual needs.

 

Home Repair and Modifications

In Tacoma, numerous programs are available to aid seniors and individuals with disabilities in financing home modifications and repairs. These programs, offering grants or loans, have diverse eligibility requirements specifically designed for retirees.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Weatherization Assistance Program – Pierce County	253-593-2336	The Weatherization Assistance Program in Washington is funded by both the state and federal government, along with contributions from utility companies. This program aims to enhance energy efficiency in homes, resulting in reduced utility bills and improved health and safety. It involves various upgrades like insulation installation and air leak sealing.
Rebuilding Together South Sound – Tacoma	253-238-0977	Rebuilding Together South Sound is dedicated to assisting homeowners in Pierce County, as well as the cities of Federal Way and Auburn, by providing essential home modifications. Our services encompass a wide range of safety enhancements, such as the installation of grab bars and entryway ramps, as well as energy-efficient upgrades like storm windows and roof repair. In addition to these vital improvements, we also offer special services and community events that specifically cater to low-income senior veterans and women. To be eligible for our assistance, seniors must meet certain low-income guidelines and ensure that their mortgage and taxes are up-to-date.
Habitat for Humanity Aging in Place Program – Tacoma	253-627-5626	The Washington Habitat for Humanity Aging in Place program offers valuable support and assistance to seniors who prefer to stay in their own homes. By collaborating with human service organizations, Habitat conducts thorough assessments of individual needs and carries out essential repairs and modifications to enhance safety and accessibility. These modifications encompass the installation of ramps, raised toilets, lever door handles, and railings. Additionally, the program connects older adults with community resources that empower them to maintain their independence.

 

Legal Resources

In Tacoma, numerous agencies provide affordable or complimentary legal assistance to the elderly. They offer counsel on matters like estate management, living wills, and power of attorney. Some even serve as advocates for seniors’ rights in long-term care facilities.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Pierce County Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman	800-642-5769	The Pierce County Long-Term Care Ombudsman offers support and assistance to residents of skilled nursing, assisted living, and adult family home facilities in the county. The Ombudsman’s role is to inform residents and their families about their rights to receive high-quality care. In cases where issues arise concerning the quality of care, the Ombudsman acts as a mediator between residents and their care facilities. Additionally, the program’s dedicated team, along with volunteers, diligently investigates any complaints regarding the care provided to residents.

 

Senior Centers

In Tacoma, senior centers serve as a hub for older adults, providing recreational activities, events, and valuable resources. These centers also offer wellness programs, nutritional guidance, and assistance with senior-related concerns.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Beacon Activity Center	253-301-3369	The Beacon Activity Center in Tacoma offers a range of programs for residents aged 60 and above. Weekday lunches are available, with sit-down meals on Mondays and Tuesdays, and to-go options on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Lunches are first-come, first-served and require advance registration. Delivery service is also available on Wednesdays.
Lighthouse Activity Center	253-426-1282	Lighthouse Activity Center in Tacoma, WA, provides a wide range of programming and support for residents aged 60 and older. Every week, seniors can enjoy nutritious sit-down lunches on Thursdays and Fridays, or opt for convenient to-go lunches on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Our center is dedicated to helping seniors navigate the complexities of federal, state, and county-level benefits, providing them with the necessary resources, services, and education to enroll. We offer a variety of engaging activities and events, including cultural programming, health and wellness activities, recreational options, and informational classes on various topics.
Pierce County Community Connections Resource Center	855-567-0252	CLC serves as a valuable resource for individuals navigating the complex landscape of long-term care. Our organization specializes in providing guidance and support to older adults, including those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as they explore available services. We are dedicated to educating individuals about the various options for long-term support, both in the community and in facility-based settings.
Point Defiance-Ruston Senior Center	253-756-0601	The Point Defiance-Ruston Senior Center, in partnership with the Franke Tobey Jones senior living community, provides a welcoming space for seniors in the local area. With a focus on promoting socialization, learning, and active engagement, individuals aged 55 and above can participate in a variety of activities, classes, programs, and events. Additionally, a delicious hot lunch is offered from Monday to Thursday at noon, with a suggested donation.

 

Senior Engagement

In Tacoma, a variety of programs and resources are available for seniors to stay engaged and active. These include wellness initiatives, volunteering options, and support networks, all aimed at fostering community involvement and enhancing life quality.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Silver Financial Counseling Services – Tacoma	253-593-2111	Established in 1996, Sound Outreach is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting seniors in Pierce County in attaining financial stability. Our range of financial empowerment services equips seniors with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about credit, steering clear of predatory lending schemes and fraudulent investment opportunities. In collaboration with a credit union, Sound Outreach also extends support to unbanked seniors, safeguarding their financial well-being. Through this partnership, we provide loan products specifically tailored to help seniors enhance their credit scores.

 

Social Security Offices

In Tacoma, Social Security offices provide essential services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer guidance on retirement benefits, disability allowances, and Supplemental Security Income.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Tacoma Social Security Office 98409	800-722-1213	Social Security is a government program that provides income to individuals who have retired or are unable to work due to a disability. The funding for Social Security comes from a payroll tax that is paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, individuals receive monthly payments based on their earnings during their working years.

 

Tax Assistance

Numerous tax aid resources are available in Tacoma for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. These include potential exemptions on medical costs, property tax reductions, and other tax relief initiatives.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Property Tax Exemption Program – Pierce County	253-798-6111	The Washington State Department of Revenue provides a property tax exemption and deferment program for seniors and disabled adults. This program has the potential to lower your school taxes and freeze the assessed value of your property from the year you become eligible.

 

Transportation Assistance

For seniors in Tacoma struggling with private transportation, help is at hand. Community services are available to aid the elderly and disabled in their local travels, facilitating errands and appointments within the city.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Around the Sound Non-Emergency Medical Transportation – Tacoma	265-858-7088	Around the Sound provides transportation services for seniors who have chronic illnesses or mobility challenges. Our reliable and comfortable vehicles are equipped to accommodate gurneys, wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, and other mobility aids. Our experienced drivers are trained to assist older adults with dementia or Alzheimer’s. We offer rides to nonemergency medical appointments and treatments in Tacoma, WA, as well as Pierce, King, Kitsap, Thurston, Lewis, Clallam, Jefferson, and Mason counties. Fees may vary depending on individual circumstances.

 

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Organizations are available to aid low-income seniors in Tacoma struggling with home maintenance costs, including utility and energy bills. Emergency funding may also be accessible for those at risk of utility service termination due to unpaid bills.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Pierce County	253-572-5557	LIHEAP is a federal program designed to assist low-income households in covering their utility bills and avoiding disconnection. It also offers support for heating or cooling repairs and, in certain situations, the purchase of new equipment.
Pierce County Energy Assistance Program (EAP)	800-562-0336	The Pierce County Energy Assistance Program is designed to assist income-eligible seniors residing in Pierce County, outside the Tacoma, WA city limits, with their home heating bills. To qualify for this program, seniors must provide necessary documentation such as photo ID, proof of address, and energy bills. Additionally, their household income should not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level, based on their household size. Eligible applicants will have their energy bills paid directly to the utility company by the program.

 

Veteran’s Services

Veteran services in Tacoma offer invaluable assistance to retired military personnel. These local entities guide veterans in utilizing their rightful benefits and provide counsel on diverse matters.

Program Name	Phone Number	Description
Tacoma Vet Center	253-565-7038	The Tacoma Vet Center serves as a valuable resource center for veterans and their families, providing confidential and free assistance. Our dedicated team is here to help veterans navigate and understand the various federal and state programs available to them, including VA medical and education benefits. We offer vocational rehabilitation, job training, and telehealth visits to address a range of mental health issues such as depression, anger, trauma, stress, and PTSD. In addition, we collaborate with local organizations and community agencies, ensuring veterans have access to a wide network of resources. If needed, we can also provide referrals to these resources.

 

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Tacoma, WA

Assisted Living Communities in Tacoma are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined by the state. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.