10 Best Independent Living Communities in Springfield, MO

The ways to pay for independent living in Springfield vary but typically include private pay, VA benefits, and Medicare and Medicaid resources for seniors.

The following section will outline all the above resources for seniors. Use the tabs to explore each option in detail and find the best fit for your needs.

Independent living facilities that stand on their own are not required to be licensed, but they are still subject to state, federal, city, and county housing laws, just like any other housing option. However, for those facilities that are also paired with assisted living or memory care, there are some rules and regulations that apply.

Missouri Assisted living facilities (ALF) have to be licensed by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). Memory care falls under the same classification as this type of care generally occurs in an assisted living setting but is also referred to as Alzheimer’s Special Care Units. Both must be overseen by a licensed Nursing Home Administrator.

In Missouri, assisted living and memory care facilities must offer 24-hour access to care and services. That includes help with activities of daily living and medication management. Any health care must be provided under the direction of a licensed physician.

A physical exam must occur and a care plan must be provided within the first five days of the resident’s stay. The abilities and desires of residents, as well as their privacy and autonomy, must be prioritized.

Assisted living and memory care facilities must be inspected by DHSS before getting licensed and then twice a year after. Federal inspections occur every 9 to 15 months for assisted living and memory care facilities that are federally certified by the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services. All inspections are unannounced.

To check inspection reports, use the DHSS’  Show Me Long Term Care portal, where you can search by county, city, or ZIP code.

Missouri Department of Health
930 Wildwood Drive
Jefferson City, MO 65109
Phone: 573-751-6400
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Springfield-Greene County Health Department
227 E. Chestnut Expressway
Springfield, MO 65802
Phone: 417-864-1658

COVID-19 regulations for Springfield independent living communities

Right now, Springfield has no specific citywide COVID-19-related regulations or mandates in place.

The state of Missouri has lifted its statewide mask mandate and capacity limits for businesses, but individual businesses and organizations may still require masks or have their own capacity limits in place. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provides guidance for individuals and businesses on COVID-19 prevention measures, such as wearing masks in certain settings and practicing social distancing.

For the latest information and guidance on COVID-19 in Missouri, including statewide recommendations and guidelines, visit the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website. Additionally, residents of Springfield can visit the city’s website to check the community spread of COVID-19 in Springfield and Greene County.

Springfield is a vibrant city with a growing population of seniors seeking independent living options. With 12 independent living facilities partnered with A Place for Mom within a 10-mile radius of central Springfield, there are a variety of options available to suit different needs and preferences.

Standalone independent living

Of these 12 partner facilities, five are standalone independent living facilities that offer a range of amenities and services for seniors looking to maintain an active and independent lifestyle. These facilities typically feature apartments, condos, or single-unit homes, with various floor plans and layouts.

A little help

For seniors who require additional support with activities of daily living (ADLs) or think they might someday, three facilities combine independent living facilities with assisted living and two also offer adult day care. These facilities offer assistance with medication management, bathing, dressing, and other daily needs while allowing residents to maintain high independence and autonomy.

Continuity of care

For those seeking a more progressive care classification, several facilities offer a unique blend of care services, making them highly appealing options for care seekers. Four partner facilities offer independent living and assisted living, as well as memory care on the same premises.

Enjoyable amenities

Seniors who love to stay active will appreciate that three-quarters of our partner facilities have a fitness center onsite. These facilities also typically have game rooms, with 83% offering this amenity to keep residents entertained and socialize with other residents. In addition, more than half of these partner facilities have a movie or theater room for movie nights.

For those who love the outdoors, some facilities offer private patios, decks, or balconies for enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views. Additionally, 67% of the facilities offer raised garden beds, allowing residents to indulge in gardening activities and enjoy the beauty of nature. Many facilities cater to those who like to relax in the water. In fact, nearly half have a swimming pool where residents can cool off during hot summer days.

Beauty is also a priority in these facilities, with 75% of them having a beauty salon on-site where residents can get haircuts, manicures, and other beauty treatments. And 50% have barber shops on-site, allowing you to get your haircuts and other grooming needs attended to with ease.

Overall, the independent living market in Springfield is diverse and offers a range of options for seniors looking to maintain an active and independent lifestyle, with facilities ranging from budget-friendly to more luxurious options.

Springfield, Missouri, is home to two Level I Trauma Centers, as well as physicians in every significant specialty area recognized by the American Medical Association. Springfield’s focus on wellness and advanced health care services make it an excellent place to call home. Though Springfield does not have any VA hospitals, it offers multiple choices.

Transportation for seniors in Springfield, Missouri, can be a challenge, as the city is primarily car-dependent, which is why Walk Score only gives it a 39 on a scale to 100 for walkability and a 51 for bikeability. However, some alternatives are available to help seniors get around town.

One of the main public transportation offerings in Springfield is the citywide bus network. The public transit system in Springfield, Missouri, is operated by City Utilities, which provides a service known as The Bus. For those seeking information on routes, schedules, and other details, its website offers a wealth of information. This network provides seniors with access to a range of destinations throughout the city, including shopping centers, medical facilities, and other key locations. Additionally, all city buses are equipped with bike racks, which can be useful for seniors who prefer biking to walking.

Another option for more active seniors is The Link, a Springfield biking initiative. This initiative includes a series of less crowded streets that provide a backway to activity centers around town, making it easier for seniors to get around without a car. This can be a great option for seniors who want to stay active and maintain their independence while still having access to the amenities and services they need.

OATS Transit can get you around Greene County. Its website details available routes. Some are reserved specifically for seniors who are at least 60 years old. Non-emergency medical transportation can also be found through Jane’s Ride and Ability Transportation.

Top Activities in Springfield, Missouri, for Seniors:

For seniors and their family members who like to get out and about, Springfield offers a feast for the senses. Whether their tastes run toward sports, history, the arts, fine dining, or the outdoors, seniors will find plenty of opportunities for enrichment and joy in Springfield.

Life in Springfield isn’t complete without reveling in some of its culinary delights. Though the city is known as the home of crispy fried cashew chicken, its food scene has even more to offer, from steak to sushi to crepes to Italian delicacies to Southern-style barbecue. Popular dining spots include open-kitchen locations like Avanzare Italian Dining in the historic Commercial Street District; Flame Steakhouse & Wine Bar downtown; and the upscale and modern Metropolitan Grill.

Dessert lovers in Springfield are sweet on Askinosie Chocolate, a locally owned and operated chocolate factory that creates delicious artisanal chocolate and offers factory tours. And wine lovers can drink in the ambiance at 7Cs Winery, which vends homegrown drinks and offers paint and sip nights, vendor market Saturdays, sunflower experiences, and more.

Sports and game enthusiasts can find so much to love in Springfield. Check out a Springfield Cardinals minor league baseball game, where the food promotions, giveaways, and on-field contests make for an exciting experience. College sports lovers will enjoy Missouri State University sporting events, including football, basketball, soccer, and baseball.

For those who love old-school video games and pinball machines, 1984 Arcade is a dream come true. This arcade bar in downtown Springfield features dozens of classic arcade games, as well as a full bar and snack menu. And the whole family can enjoy Andy B’s Bowl Social, a family-friendly entertainment center that offers bowling, arcade games, laser tag, plus a full restaurant and bar.

Downtown Springfield holds plenty of entertainment treasures. The Gillioz Theatre, a historic theater that has been beautifully restored to its original glory, hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, comedy shows, theater performances, and more. With its ornate decor and intimate setting, the Gillioz is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the arts. The Downtown Springfield historic district is also full of restaurants, boutiques, antique shops, festivals, parades, and more.

Veterans might especially enjoy the Air & Military Museum of the Ozarks, a must-visit destination for history buffs and aviation enthusiasts. The museum features a wide variety of military aircraft, as well as displays on military history and veterans. Visitors can take guided tours and even climb inside some of the aircraft on display.

Springfield and surrounding communities are also home to plenty of interesting annual events — cookoffs, parades, festivals, and more — that brighten up the region throughout the year.

In Springfield, seniors’ social lives are bolstered by the activities and events at the city’s senior centers. At Northview Center, seniors ages 55 and up can enjoy tai chi, bingo, pinochle, choir practice, and more. The South Side Senior Center brings friendship, fun, and focus on healthy living to the area’s senior set.