Page Reviewed / Updated – March 6, 2024
Page Reviewed by Dr. Brindusa Vanta, MD
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Just because you’re ready to retire doesn’t mean you have to stop learning or developing new skills. In fact, lifelong learners can enjoy many benefits, such as improved psychological well-being, lower blood pressure and increased adaptability to changing circumstances. Educational activities also give you additional opportunities to bond with new friends over your shared interests. For example, think about how much fun it is to discuss a novel with your book club or swap theories about artificial intelligence with your loved ones.

University retirement communities (URCs) take the best aspects of traditional senior living and combine them with opportunities to attend classes, participate in research projects, use campus computing equipment and check out materials from university libraries. If you have a thirst for knowledge, moving to one of these communities can help you keep your mind sharp and make it easier to avoid isolation during retirement.

This guide explains what a URC is, provides an overview of the benefits and explains how to pay for this type of senior care. It also includes a directory of URCs to make it easier to find one that matches your unique needs.

What Is a University Retirement Community?

A URC is a retirement community affiliated with a college or university. In addition to housing and other basic amenities, these communities offer educational programs, wellness plans and other services to help residents maintain the highest possible quality of life.

For many older adults, access to continuing education is what makes URCs such an attractive senior living option. Some universities allow URC residents to use on-campus libraries and computer labs, making it easy for them to learn new skills and keep their minds active. Residents may also have the opportunity to audit college courses, expanding their knowledge and giving them plenty to discuss during social activities.

Housing Options at URCs

The type of housing available depends on which community you choose, but apartments, cottages and villas are some of the most popular options. You don’t have to worry about living in a tiny dorm room, as each institution typically keeps its student housing and URC housing separate, although residents are encouraged to interact with college students, professors and guest lecturers. No matter which type of unit you have, you can expect it to be clean and well-appointed, giving you a comfortable place to relax at the end of a long day.

Living on campus gives older adults the opportunity to live life to the fullest during retirement. You might find residents socializing on the campus quad, grabbing a bite to eat in the cafeteria or cheering on the school’s football team on fall weekends. You don’t have to worry about having nothing to do during term breaks, either, as URCs keep campus amenities available year-round.

Care Porvided at URCs

Many URCs are organized as continuing-care retirement communities (CCRCs). These communities offer several levels of care, such as independent living, assisted living and memory care. If your needs change after you move in, you won’t have to start from scratch and find an entirely new facility. You’ll be able to move from one level of care to another, leading to fewer disruptions in your routine.

Here’s what to expect from each type of housing:

  • Independent living: Independent living complexes are designed for seniors who don’t need help with activities of daily living. Many of these complexes have apartment-style housing, but you may find one with cottages, condominiums or villas. An independent living community is typically set up so that it’s easy for residents to access medical care, restaurants, grocery stores and local attractions.
  • Assisted living: Assisted living communities have staff members available 24 hours per day, giving residents access to extra help with personal care tasks. These communities also offer meals, housekeeping services and other amenities.
  • Memory care: Older adults with dementia may benefit from moving to a URC with memory care services. Staff members have specialized training to help them care for residents with cognitive decline. Residents may have access to art therapy, music therapy and other services.

What Is the Difference Between Senior Living Communities and URCs?

One of the biggest differences between a URC and a traditional senior living community is the campus setting. Although traditional communities are typically set up with convenience in mind, you may find that living on a college campus offers even more convenience. Instead of having to drive, take a bus or ask for a ride, you can walk almost anywhere you want to go, from restaurants to lecture halls. Some universities even have free shuttles available to transport residents around the campus.

URCs may also have a much wider range of amenities than traditional senior living communities. For example, an assisted living community may offer exercise classes, but there’s a good chance you’ll have access to a more comprehensive fitness program at a URC. Depending on the size of the campus, a URC may have multiple gyms, intramural sports teams and classes designed to teach new athletic skills. If you move to a URC, you may spend one afternoon taking tennis lessons and another afternoon working out with a weight machine.

Large college campuses may also have multiple cafeterias, national restaurant franchises, convenience stores and other amenities. College cafeterias offer communal dining, giving residents a chance to socialize while they eat. Each cafeteria is a little different, so the URC you choose may have access to deli items, hot entrées, salad bars and other options. If you don’t feel like socializing, you may even be able to fill up a takeout container and head back to your residence to eat.

Finally, residents of URCs have access to a variety of educational opportunities. Traditional retirement communities may offer a few classes or have guest speakers a few times per month, but many URCs go beyond that by allowing residents to audit university-level courses. If you’ve always wanted to learn more about astronomy or take a class from a culinary professional, moving to a URC makes it possible. Some URCs also pair residents with students, giving them the opportunity to pass on their knowledge and professional experience. For example, a student may want to interview you for a class assignment, or you may have a chance to mentor someone who’s writing a thesis in your area of expertise.

Housing/Room Type

Costs

Level of Care Provided

Educational Offerings

Common Services/Amenities

Traditional Retirement Communities

Single-family homes, condos, villas, apartments

Average monthly cost of $3,555 per month; $100,000 to $1 million in one-time entrance fees for some communities

Independent living for active seniors

Limited to lectures or classes at a community center

  • Activity rooms or buildings
  • Tennis courts, swimming pools and other recreational areas
  • Beauty salons
  • Private security
  • Full kitchens
  • Internet service

Assisted Living

Apartments, private rooms, shared rooms

$4,500 per month national median

Help with personal care and activities of daily living

May offer fitness classes or educational programs to help residents live healthier lives

  • Linen service
  • Housekeeping
  • Medication management
  • Salon/barber shop
  • Entertainment
  • Private dining room

URCs

Condos, villas, cottages, apartments

$4,500 to $5,000 per month depending on location and amenities; $100,000 to $1 million in one-time entrance fees for some communities

Levels of care may include independent living, assisted living or memory care

Residents are often permitted to audit a full catalog of college courses

  • Free lectures, seminars and classes
  • Access to university fitness facilities
  • Free tickets to on-campus events
  • Transportation services
  • Dining services

What Are the Benefits of URCs?

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Moving to a URC has many potential benefits. Here’s what you can expect if you choose this senior living option:

  • Reduced risk of dementia: Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine explain that education helps the brain develop new connections between cells, so taking classes, attending lectures and participating in other educational activities may help you reduce your risk of dementia as you age.
  • Potential for improved health: URCs often offer access to fitness centers, exercise classes and wellness programs. Participating in these programs may reduce your risk of developing a serious health condition. If your URC is affiliated with a medical or dental school, you may even have access to free or reduced-cost health care services, making it easier to manage your health.
  • Lower expenses: URCs cost money, but you may be able to reduce your total monthly expenses by living on a college campus. Instead of having to pay for expensive memberships, you’ll be able to take advantage of everything the university has to offer. For example, you may be able to access music and theater performances for free.
  • Intergenerational connections: URCs are a fairly new concept, but researchers are already studying the development of intergenerational connections in this setting. When you live on a college campus, you have the opportunity to connect with young people, improving your overall well-being. Intergenerational relationships even have the potential to improve your physical and mental health.
  • Opportunities to participate in research studies: If you move to a URC, you may be eligible to participate in clinical trials or medical research studies. Some trial participants receive medications that aren’t available to the general public yet, which can be an attractive benefit for anyone who has dementia or another progressive disease. Participating in clinical trials and research studies also gives you the opportunity to contribute to new discoveries in medicine.
  • Access to job opportunities: Many seniors enjoy working part-time to earn a little extra money and stay active. If you move to a URC, you may be able to get an on-campus job, allowing you to keep your skills current and continue your professional development.

Downloadable Checklist: What To Look For in a University Retirement Community

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How Much Does a URC Cost?

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According to the Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey, the median monthly cost of an assisted living community was $4,500 in 2021. Hospitality Net, a resource for experts in the hospitality industry, reports that The Mirabella, a URC in Phoenix, Arizona, charges residents $4,500 to $5,000 per month to cover the costs of housekeeping, utilities, dining and other expenses associated with operating the facility.

That said, most URCs may have additional costs that other senior care settings don’t have. For example, if you want to move to a continuing care retirement community, you may have to pay an entrance fee ranging from $100,000 to $1 million. This one-time fee guarantees you a place in the community and prepays for some of the care you’ll receive once you move in. Some communities, but not all, refund a portion of the entrance fee if you decide to move elsewhere. To qualify for a refund, you may have to pay a higher entrance fee before you move in.

At Oak Hammock at The University of Florida, for example, the standard entrance fee for a Life Care contract ranges from $177,000 to $584,000 for one person. That fee increases to $231,000 to $771,000 for the 50% refundable plan and $345,000 to $1.045 million for the 95% refundable plan. If you’re interested in a refundable plan, make sure you understand how the URC calculates the amount due when you move out. Kendal at Hanover, a URC in New Hampshire, has a standard plan that reduces the refundable portion of the fee by 2% every month for 50 months. Therefore, a senior who moves out 1 year after their move-in date will receive a much larger refund than a senior who stays for 3 years before moving out.

Memory care generally costs about 25% more than general assisted living. Therefore, you can expect to pay about $5,625 per month for memory care services offered by a URC. Of course, you may pay more or less depending on where you live and the level of care you need. For example, California, Oregon, Washington and New York all have high costs of living, so senior living communities in these states typically charge more for their services.

Don’t let sticker shock cause you to cross URCs off your list of senior living options. The cost of moving to a URC is significantly lower than the cost of staying in a nursing home. In 2021, the median monthly cost of nursing home care was $7,908 for a semiprivate room. For a private room, the median cost jumps to $9,034. When you compare the cost of nursing home care to the cost of moving to a URC, the URC is much more affordable on a monthly basis.

URC Payment Options

Medicare and Medicaid don’t cover the cost of moving to a URC, and there aren’t many options for financial assistance. That doesn’t mean a URC is out of reach, however. If you have your heart set on moving to a college campus, here are a few ways to cover the cost:

  • Reverse mortgages: A reverse mortgage allows you to borrow against your home equity. You have to repay the loan once you stop living in the home, but you can use the funds to invest and generate income to help you cover the cost of moving to a URC at a later date.
  • Family funds or private payment: If you have a healthy balance in your retirement account, you can use the funds to cover your monthly URC expenses. Not everyone has a lot of cash on hand, so another option is to ask family members to help with the cost of moving to a URC.
  • Bridge loans: The real estate market is volatile, so there’s no guarantee your home will sell before you move to a URC. A bridge loan gives you access to cash while you wait to close on a home sale, ensuring you can pay your URC expenses in the meantime. After you sell your home, you can use the proceeds to pay back the loan.

Find a URC

The directory below provides information about URCs currently operating in the United States. Senior living communities update their services from time to time, so if you’re interested in a particular facility, call ahead to verify that it’s still accepting new residents. Several URCs are currently in development, so this list reflects current market conditions. It’s not meant to be an exhaustive overview of every URC in the country.

 

Alabama

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Somerby at university park

400 University Park Drive Ofc, Birmingham, AL 35209

(949) 287-4600

In Birmingham, AL, Somerby at University Park is an assisted living community that provides seniors with continuing education. The University of Alabama’s Birmingham campus is easily accessible, with free classes for those over 50 years of age. Residents receive transportation services and round-the-clock assistance with daily activities.

 

Arizona

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Mirabella at ASU

65 East University Drive, Tempe, AZ 85281

(480) 317-4444

Mirabella at ASU is an Arizona-based retirement community that caters to seniors who wish to pursue higher education. Daily lectures, college courses, and workshops at Arizona State University are available to residents, with housekeeping and laundry taken care of. Seniors can join college classes as visiting instructors or guest learners and also have access to care services, chef-prepared meals, and a fitness center.

Academy Village

13701 East Langtry Lane, Tucson, AZ 85747

(520) 647-0900

In Tucson, the Academy Villas is an assisted living community within the Academy Village. One-bedroom and studio apartments are available, with 24-hour staff on hand to assist residents with grooming, dressing and more. The Arizona Senior Academy, affiliated with the University of Arizona, provides lifelong learning opportunities like lectures, classes and access to the university library.

 

Arkansas

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

College Square Retirement Community

2421 College Avenue, Conway, AR 72034

(501) 327-6227

College Square Retirement Community is a vibrant independent living community for seniors aged 55 and older, situated on the University of Central Arkansas campus. Special UCA privileges are provided, such as access to classes, sporting events, and theater performances, in addition to campus amenities and medical facilities. Opportunities for personal growth and lifelong learning are also available.

Butterfield Trail Village

1923 East Joyce Boulevard, Fayetteville, AR 72703

(479) 442-7220

Butterfield Trail Village in Fayetteville, AR is a senior community that encourages residents to participate in art lessons, lectures, and local performances at the arts center. Caregivers provide support with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and medication management. Seniors can also benefit from exercise programs like deep-water aerobics and yoga, and enjoy restaurant-style dining at The Lodge.

Harding Place Retirement

801 Benton Avenue, Searcy, AR 72143

(501) 305-3100

Harding Place Retirement Living in Searcy, AR is a community that offers independent living for seniors on the Harding University campus. Residents receive VIP access to campus facilities and events, including the pool, library and weight room. They can participate in classes, groups, and on-site activities, as well as community-based programs for a fulfilling lifestyle.

 

California

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

University Village Thousand Oaks

3415 South Campus Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

(800) 671-8509

University Village in Thousand Oaks, CA, is a Type A Life Plan Contract community featuring assisted living facilities with compassionate 24/7 care staff to help seniors stay independent. The community features activities such as an aquatic center, wood room, and fitness training. Located across the street from Californian Lutheran University, residents can audit classes, attend sporting events, and theater performances.

Vi at Palo Alto

620 Sand Hill Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304

(888) 926-1850

Vi at Palo Alto, CA, is a senior living community located near top academic institutions for seniors wishing to continue their education. Residents can take lessons at the art studio or attend free classes at the computer center to explore their interests. Caregivers provide round-the-clock care, assisting with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating.

University Retirement Community

1515 Shasta Drive, Davis, CA 95616

(530) 747-7000

At University Retirement Community in Davis, CA, seniors can attend classes and lectures in partnership with UC Davis Institute while enjoying local sports teams. Skilled nursing care is available short- and long-term, and an on-site rehabilitation center provides therapy services. The dining area offers chef-prepared meals with various dietary options.

Belmont Village Senior Living Westwood

10475 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90024

(424) 401-0705

Belmont Village Senior Living Westwood is a university-affiliated community developed in partnership with UCLA in Los Angeles, CA. The community offers care options such as independent living, assisted living, and memory care, including the Circle of Friends program for seniors in the early stages of memory loss. On-site activities provide a variety of enriching experiences for residents.

 

Florida

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Oak Hammock

5100 SW 25th Boulevard, Gainesville, FL 32608

(352) 548-1000

In Gainesville, FL, Oak Hammock partners with the University of Florida to provide seniors with learning and engagement opportunities. Scheduled transportation is provided to access classes, activities, and events at the university. The community offers accommodations for assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing care, in addition to independent living. An on-site library and access to university libraries provide additional learning opportunities.

Azalea Trace

10100 Hillview Drive, Pensacola, FL 32514

(855) 497-4117

Azalea Trace is a senior living community on Florida’s Gulf Coast, situated across the street from the University of West Florida. The community offers access to the university’s lifelong learning programs, which provide free noncredit classes for seniors aged 60 years and up. Health services are also available on campus, offering seniors a convenient way to get their medical needs met.

College Harbor

4600 54th Avenue South St. Petersburg, FL 33711

(727) 914-9756

College Harbor is a St. Petersburg, FL, retirement community ideal for seniors wanting to continue their education at nearby Eckerd College. The community’s friendly staff is available 24/7 to assist with dressing, showering, and mobility. Rehabilitation services and access to the wellness center are available for medical treatment by visiting health care professionals.

Legacy Pointe at UCF

2110 Hestia Loop, Oviedo, FL 32765

(407) 917-6418

Legacy Pointe at UCF is an assisted living community in Orlando, FL, affiliated with the University of Central Florida. The community prioritizes high standards of care and cutting-edge health and wellness programs. The 24/7 staff assists seniors in remaining independent while offering assistance with daily activities. The community offers a daily itinerary of hobbies, physical exercise, and social activities, and residents can attend university classes as part of a lifelong learning program.

 

Georgia

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

The Spires at Berry College

600 Eagle Lake Trail, Rome, GA 30165

(706) 368-9955

The Spires at Berry College is a university retirement community located on the shores of Eagle Lake, offering residents a peaceful retreat surrounded by 27,000 wooded acres. The community is just steps away from the vibrancy of college campus life and provides unique opportunities for cultural, spiritual, and intellectual enrichment, with on-site amenities and the ability to attend classes, lectures, plays, concerts, and sporting events.

 

Illinois

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

The Clare at Water Tower

55 East Pearson Street, Chicago, IL 60611

(312) 784-8100

The Clare is a senior living community located on the Loyola University Chicago Water Tower Campus in the heart of the city’s top shopping, dining, and entertainment. The community provides on-site amenities such as a state-of-the-art fitness center, an indoor pool, a salon, and a health and wellness center. Residents can participate in a variety of planned social events and activities, lifelong learning opportunities, and intergenerational programming.

 

Indiana

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

University Place

1700 Lindberg Road. West Lafayette, IN 47906

(765) 268-5767

University Place in West Lafayette, IN, is affiliated with Purdue University to offer enriching opportunities to residents. Seniors can participate in community activities and programs, including an on-site library and craft, hobby, and woodworking rooms. Independent living is available for seniors who don’t need assistance, with assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care available for additional support.

Holy Cross Village

54515 State Highway 933, Notre Dame, IN 46556

(574) 287-1838

Holy Cross Village in Notre Dame, IN, is located near Holy Cross College, St. Mary’s College, and the University of Notre Dame campuses. Walking paths connect the community to the campuses, and transportation is provided for residents to attend on-campus performances. College students often volunteer at the senior community, fostering intergenerational relationships. Independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing accommodations are available in the continuum of care.

 

Iowa

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Green Hills Retirement Community

2200 Hamilton Drive, Ames, IA 50014

(515) 357-5000

Green Hills Retirement Community in Ames, IA, is conveniently located just minutes away from the Iowa State University campus. The community offers residents easy access to classes and campus events and a variety of activities and events. With a robust fitness center that includes a pool and fitness programs, seniors can enhance their lives and well-being. Independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care accommodations are available.

Eisenach Village & Eichhorn Haus

1922 5th Avenue NW Waverly, IA 50677

(319) 352-4540

Eisenach Village & Eichhorn Haus in Waverly, IA, are independent living adult communities offering new learning opportunities for active seniors. Eisenach Village provides maintenance-free living with complimentary access to all sporting events, performances, and classes held by Wartburg College. Eichhorn Haus features accommodations with step-in showers and wide doorways, catering, housekeeping, maintenance, and transportation services, as well as a wellness and activities program. The communities are situated close to Waverly’s restaurants and retail stores.

 

Maine

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Wardell Retirement

43 Middle Street, Saco, ME 04072

(207) 284-7061

The Wardell Retirement Community in Saco, ME, collaborates with colleges to enhance the lives of senior residents. Independent living and assisted living programs are available. Seniors can volunteer in the Geriatrics Practicum through the University of New England, offering medical students experiential learning. On-site college classes are available through York County Senior College, customized for learners ages 55 and older.

 

Maryland

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Collington

10450 Lottsford Road Mitchellville, MD 20721

(888) 257-9468

Collington in Mitchellville, MD, offers levels of care including independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care. The community offers learning opportunities, starting with a library of over 5,000 books and periodical rooms housing more than 100 publications. On-site activities, including lectures, interest groups, and recreation, offer additional enrichment. Collington’s Artists in Residence program, in conjunction with the University of Maryland School of Music, places two college students within the senior community to connect generations.

 

Michigan

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

University Commons

817 Asa Gray Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

N/A

University Commons is an independent living community in Ann Arbor, MI, for seniors aged 55 and up. Located near the University of Michigan’s North Campus, it’s surrounded by scenic forests and wetlands. The community offers 92 condominium units, and many residents are university employees. Amenities include a fitness center, library, and woodworking room. The Brass Rail Café provides a gathering space, and there is outdoor space available for barbecues.

 

Massachusetts

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Lasell Village

120 Seminary Avenue, Auburndale, MA 02466

(617) 663-7000

Lasell Village in Auburndale, MA, is an independent living community with a focus on lifelong learning. Residents choose a goal-oriented education program and commit 450 hours to learning. Access to college courses, lectures, and events at Lasell University is available. In addition, there are opportunities to volunteer, teach, mentor, and tutor within the community. Clubs, outings, and community activities provide a stimulating environment.

Lathrop Communit Town Homes

100 Bassett Brook Drive, Easthampton, MA 01027

(413) 586-0006

Lathrop Community Town Homes offers independent and supported living in Easthampton, MA, close to the UMass Amherst campus. Residents can volunteer to connect with the community and participate in activities. Continuing education opportunities are available at local campuses, and the community prioritizes culinary quality. Restaurant-style dining and gourmet meals made with local and seasonal ingredients are offered.

Sweetwood of Williamstown

1611 Cold Spring Road Williamstown, MA 01267

(413) 458-8371

Sweetwood of Williamstown is an independent and assisted living community in Williamstown, MA. It’s close to Williams College, providing seniors with educational and cultural opportunities. The fitness center has personal trainers who help seniors improve strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls. Nursing care is available day or night. Community amenities include social events and gatherings.

 

New Hampshire

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Kendal at Hanover

67 Cummings Road Hanover, NH 03755-1263

(603) 643-8900

Kendal at Hanover, NH, is an assisted living community close to Dartmouth College. Seniors can attend lectures and audit college courses, and around-the-clock nursing care is provided. Assistance with daily chores and access to the on-site Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic are also available. Seniors can improve physical fitness using the indoor swimming pool and exercise room.

 

New York

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Rivers Run Cottages

50 Fairwood Drive # 100, Rochester, NY 14623

(585) 248-3400

Rivers Run Cottages in Rochester, NY, provides educational opportunities for seniors over 50 through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at RIT. A partnership with the National Technical Institute for the Deaf provides access to its library, social programs, hearing tests, and academic events. The community offers low-maintenance living with landscaping care, snow removal, and weekly garbage pickup. An on-site fitness center and fun activities are available.

The Kendal at Ithaca

2230 Triphammer Road Ithaca, NY 14850

(800) 253-6325

The Kendal at Ithaca is a senior living community located on a 105-acre campus near Cornell University and Ithaca College. The community provides comprehensive on-site health care services, well-appointed accommodations, and upscale amenities such as an indoor pool, tennis courts, and art studio. Seniors can participate in cultural, educational, and recreational activities on campus, including fitness classes, art programs, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Longview Senior Living Community

1 Bella Vista Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850

(607) 375-6300

Longview Senior Living Community in Ithaca, NY, is an independent and assisted living community that features a disability-friendly environment. The community has accessible homes and apartments of various sizes, with seniors receiving help with household tasks and daily activities. The partnership with Ithaca College provides lifelong learning opportunities.

Broadview Senior Living at Purchase College

6 International Drive, Suite 120 Rye Brook, NY 10573

(914) 417-4201

Broadview Senior Living at Purchase College is a university senior living community with independent living, assisted living, and memory care options in Westchester County, NY. The Learning Commons connects seniors and college students, providing a multigenerational opportunity to experience classes, lectures, and social interactions. Seniors have access to Purchase College programs, performances, and volunteer opportunities.

 

North Carolina

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

The Pines at Davidson

400 Avinger Lane, Davidson, NC 28036

(704) 896-1100

The Pines at Davidson in NC is a senior living community that allows seniors to age in place while enjoying small college town amenities and activities. Campus trails, gardens, libraries, lounge areas, and a variety of dining venues are available to residents. The wellness center has state-of-the-art exercise equipment, a therapy pool, and a whirlpool. Seniors can attend lectures, cultural performances, and sporting events at nearby Davidson College.

The Forest at Duke

2701 Pickett Road, Durham, NC 27705

(919) 490-8000

The Forest at Duke in Durham, NC, provides growth and self-discovery opportunities for residents through on-site classes with Duke University. With more than 400 monthly offerings, seniors can enjoy lectures, classes, clubs, workshops, and off-campus excursions. Independent living accommodations include apartments, cottages, and standalone homes, all accessible to programming and amenities. Personalized services are available through The Forest at Home program.

Blakey Hall

501 Blakey Hall Lane, Elon, NC 27244

(336) 506-2300

Blakey Hall in Elon, NC, is a senior living community that is within walking distance of Elon University. Seniors can take advantage of learning opportunities through classes and entertainment with various campus events. The community offers on-site activities that meet mind, body, and spiritual needs, including lectures and concerts. Civic and volunteer opportunities keep seniors engaged and active, and residents can choose from independent living, assisted living, and memory care to meet their needs.

 

Ohio

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Otterbain Granville

2158 Columbus Rd Granville, Ohio 43023

(740) 321-0400

Otterbein Granville in Granville, OH, is a senior living community that partners with Denison University to offer residents opportunities for growth and learning. Through the Community Scholar Program, residents can take noncredit college courses, and seniors can attend a variety of campus events, including plays, concerts, lectures, and sporting events. The village-style community offers apartments, cottages, and villas with independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care, and rehab. On-site amenities such as a ceramic studio, woodworking shop, and library encourage exploration and learning.

Kendal at Oberlin

600 Kendal Drive Oberlin, OH 44074

(440) 775-0094

Kendal at Oberlin is a senior living community located next to Oberlin College and Conservatory of Music. Residents over 65 can take free classes at the college, and the college offers additional classes through its Experimental College. Performances at the college are open for seniors to attend. On the senior living campus, residents have access to lectures, clubs, classes, and performances. The community provides levels of care that include independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing.

The Knolls of Oxford

6727 Contreras Road Oxford, Ohio 45056

(513) 524-7990

The Knolls of Oxford in Oxford, OH, is affiliated with Miami University, providing seniors with social, recreational, and educational enrichment. The Institute for Learning in Retirement offers residents learning opportunities, and through the Scripps Gerontology Center, they can participate in research studies related to aging. Miami University students can also connect with residents, creating multigenerational connections. Seniors with care needs can embrace the lifelong learning environment through independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing options.

 

Oregon

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Cascade Manor

65 West 30th Avenue Eugene, OR 97405

(541) 342-5901

Cascade Manor in Eugene, OR, encourages seniors to pursue various learning opportunities at the nearby University of Oregon and attend performances at the Oregon Contemporary Theater. This continuing care community provides skilled nursing care and around-the-clock staff to handle housekeeping chores, assist with daily activities, and schedule medical appointments. Dining options include the Rogue Bistro for lighter fare, such as sandwiches, and the Columbia Dining Room for more intimate meals.

 

Pennsylvania

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Kendal-Crosslands Community

1660 East Street Road Kennett Square, PA 19348

(610) 388-1441

Kendal-Crosslands Community in Kennett Square, PA, partners with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Delaware, Lifelong Institute at Immaculata University, and Chester County Night School to offer a range of classes. Equipped with an auditorium for lectures and presentations, this senior community encourages lifelong learning. Residents can volunteer and teach others to enrich their lives. Independent living, personal care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation care levels are available.

 

Rhode Island

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Laurelmead

355 Blackstone Boulevard, Providence, RI 02906

(401) 273-9550

Laurelmead is a senior retirement community offering maintenance-free independent living in a luxurious environment. Seniors can take advantage of access to a variety of amenities, including a pool, fitness room, and spa. Restaurant-style dining options are offered, and apartments are fully equipped with their own kitchens. Brown University and the Rhode Island Institute of Design are nearby, offering Laurelmead residents opportunities to participate in lifelong learning programs.

 

South Carolina

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

The Woodlands at Furman

1500 Trailhead Court, Greenville, SC 29617

(864) 371-3100

The Woodlands at Furman University in Greenville, SC, is a vibrant community where adults aged 50 and older can take university courses, attend lectures, and enjoy athletic events. Residents receive help with daily chores, and licensed nurses provide medical care when needed. Chef-prepared meals are served in the restaurant-style dining room, with special dietary requirements accommodated.

 

Texas

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

University Place

7480 Beechnut Street, Houston, TX 77074

(713) 541-2900

University Place offers seniors the opportunity to attend lectures, visit art exhibits, and access a variety of recreational services at the nearby Houston Christian University. The community offers various care services, from skilled nursing at the University Place Nursing Center to assistance with daily living activities. Pet-friendly apartments include an emergency call system, smoke detectors, and individually controlled heating and air conditioning.

 

Vermont

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Eastview at Middlebury

100 EastView Terrace, Middlebury, VT 05753

(802) 989-7500

Eastview at Middlebury is a premier senior living community located next to Middlebury College. The community offers a range of living options including independent cottages and apartments, residential care, and memory care. Seniors can take advantage of college classes, attend performances and lectures and participate in on-campus events. On-site lectures, groups and classes provide additional opportunities for residents to stay engaged.

 

Virginia

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Westminster-Canterbury of the Blue Ridge

250 Pantops Mountain Road, Charlottesville, VA 22911

(434) 972-2622

Westminster-Canterbury of the Blue Ridge provides an exceptional senior living experience near the University of Virginia campus. The community offers a full continuum of care services along with a rich selection of fitness programs, cultural events, and intellectual opportunities. Residents are welcome to participate in lecture series, on-campus exhibitions, and special events and can enjoy access to a fitness center, aquatic facilities, a chapel, and a library.

The Colonnades

2600 Barracks Road, Charlottesville, VA 22901

(434) 333-7161

The Colonnades is a continuing care community that provides seniors with a safe and comfortable residence and a full schedule of on-site activities. The community offers bridge, canasta, and mahjong groups, seated exercise classes, a play reading group, and presentations from the University of Virginia. Staff is friendly and assists with daily living activities, including medication management. Dining, housekeeping, and laundry services are provided.

Kendal at Lexington

160 Kendal Drive, Lexington, VA 24450

(540) 463-1910

Kendal at Lexington is a continuing care community located in Lexington, VA, that embodies lifelong learning through the Kendal College for Lifelong Learning. The community offers a range of learning opportunities, including lectures and hands-on classes on topics such as philosophy, fine arts, technology, and current events. Residents can also audit classes at nearby Washington and Lee University. The community provides independent living, assisted living, long-term care, skilled nursing, and memory support options.

 

Washington

Name

Address

Phone Number

Description

Merrill Gardens at The University

5300 24th Avenue NE, Seattle, WA 98105

(206) 926-9738

Merrill Gardens at The University of Washington offers seniors access to medical centers, lectures, games, and events at the university. Caregivers provide assistance with managing prescriptions and daily living chores. The community provides anytime dining for nutritious restaurant-style meals at the seniors’ convenience, and staff handles all cleaning and yard work.

University House Issaquah

22975 SE Black Nugget Road, Issaquah, WA 98029

(425) 600-4816

University House Issaquah partners with the University of Washington Retirement Association to create an academic feel in Issaquah, WA. The community works with different university departments, including the School of Social Work, to offer counseling and support when seniors transition into assisted living. The Schools of Nursing and Pharmacy provide innovative wellness programs. Residents can take advantage of life enrichment programs, a fitness center with a pool, and an auditorium for additional resources.

University House Wallingford

4400 Stone Way North, Seattle, WA 98103

(253) 765-0435

In partnership with the University of Washington Retirement Association, University House Wallingford offers seniors the opportunity to access certain university programming. Staff members are readily available to provide companionship, assist with daily living tasks, and accompany residents to medical appointments and errands. Seniors can participate in exercise programs with a personal trainer at the fitness center and enjoy restaurant-style meals prepared by a chef on-site.