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Long Island, New York, provides a diverse experience for those living there. Rich in cultural activities, access to high-quality health care, beautiful beaches, and proximity to the Big Apple, Long Island has a lot to love for independent and active seniors.
Seniors looking to enjoy all that Long Island has to offer without the worry of home ownership, lawn care, and maintenance may find an independent living facility to be the perfect fit. Long Island is a vast collection of communities, towns, and cities. This guide will cover the independent living market within a 25-mile radius of Long Island, which includes the hamlet of Ronkonkoma and Suffolk and Nassau counties.
We will discuss the common ways seniors pay for independent living along with the laws and regulations that govern these communities. This guide will discuss the many benefits of Long Island for seniors, including car independence, excellent medical care, and a diverse range of activities. These crucial details prove invaluable for seniors considering independent living communities in Long Island.
How do we rank Long Island independent living communities?
Our goal is to help you find high-quality independent living facilities that fit your needs. Using our 20+ years of experience in senior living, we developed a proprietary rating system based on the following:
Types of care available in Ronkonkoma, NY
Independent Living
The staff at the East Northport Bristal is always kind. They always have a smile on their faces and are genuinely sweet and loving to my mom. The facility is ALWAYS spotless and beautiful to live in or visit. The only area I see occasional improvement for is the food. It is not always hot and more fresh veggies needed. The personal care and overall facility is excellent.
I have toured many assisted living before deciding to place my family member here. I am so pleased with the decision! You can tell the management truly cares about us and it stems off into all the other workers. [Name removed] went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and I would recommend this place to anyone looking!
the community is very good. They have great communication, and the community is very safe. there is nothing that I don't like in this community. I would recommend this community to others
675 Portion Road, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
Food good... but dining highly restrictive. They assign seating. Makes seniors feel juvenile. Based on the experience we have had so far, we would recommend this community to other families. Very nice. More...
Set on 14 magnificent acres in the beautiful hamlet of Lake Ronkonkoma, Atria Hertlin Place offers an independent lifestyle for today's active older adults. Our convenient location provides easy access to the surrounding area, local beaches, and the exclusive shopping, restaurants and museums of...
53 Ocean Avenue, Bay Shore, NY 11706
My dad visited the community and was so pleased with what they offer. The community is clean, everyone was so friendly. He was able to talk with a few of the seniors that live there and they are genuinely...
At Atria Bay Shore, you'll find a comfortable, secure environment with a variety of events and activities to choose from. Whether it's seeing live entertainment, staying fit with our daily exercise classes, or taking a trip to nearby points of interest, there's something for everyone at Atria Bay...
1065 Smithtown Ave, Bohemia, NY 11716
The Arbor's is very nice! they have been treating my mom well. What we like the most is the very friendly staff members, the cleanliness of the community, and the great food and activities they have for...
The Arbors at Bohemia• Nestled on 5 acres in a residential setting.• Warm, compassionate team members• Single level setting; no elevators or stairs to climb• Comfortable décor helps residents feel right at homeOur mission at The Arbors Assisted Living is to enhance the quality of life by...
320 Patchogue-Holbrook Road, Holbrook, NY 11741
I would recommend. Depending on your needs you may need supplemental care. We have an aide stay overnight. We feel that arrangement is much better than a nursing home and they accommodate it.The staff and...
In elegant, residential environments, we deliver the finest in senior care, and are recognized internationally for both quality and innovation. Guided by our Principles of Service, Sunrise affords families peace-of-mind by providing today's seniors with a range of personalized assisted living...
71 St. Johnland Rd, Smithtown, NY 11787
The staff is very professional and effective. My mother has had a very difficult adjustment and her dementia deteriorated rapidly and the organization responded quickly and effectively reflecting their...
1 Sunrise Drive, East Setauket, NY 11733
There are truly caring, hard working employees. We chose Sunrise of East Setauket because it was not a large facility, it it smaller and that makes it more personable.
In elegant, residential environments, we deliver the finest in senior care, and are recognized internationally for both quality and innovation. Guided by our Principles of Service, Sunrise affords families peace-of-mind by providing today's seniors with a range of personalized assisted living...
1515 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Islandia, NY 11749
I have had positive experiences with The Arbors and would recommend them to others. They just had a [fee removed] monthly price increase but they are still a more inexpensive option compared to other...
The Arbors at Islandia East & Islandia West - SafeCare Neighborhood for the memory-impaired- Transitions Neighborhood for those who feel more comfortable in a smaller intimate environment- Spacious sun filled accommodations with balconies- Extraordinary restaurant-style farm to table meals...
30 Route 111, Smithtown, NY 11787
Facility is very clean, they host a lovely brunch for residents and their families (there is a fee), food is hit or miss, daily activities like bingo, crafts etc offered
In elegant, residential environments, we deliver the finest in senior care, and are recognized internationally for both quality and innovation. Guided by our Principles of Service, Sunrise affords families peace-of-mind by providing today's seniors with a range of personalized assisted living...
1740 Express Dr S, Hauppauge, NY 11788
My loved one was previously a resident at The Arbors at Hauppauge and most everything was great! This facility was amazing. All of the staff were kind, compassionate, empathetic and enthusiastic. Based on...
The Arbors at Hauppauge- Beautiful courtyard with colorful gardens and walking path- Conveniently located in the heart of Long Island with easy access to the LIE- Very active and engaging recreation program- Warm, compassionate well-trained staffOur mission at The Arbors Assisted Living is to...
131 E Main St, Patchogue, NY 11772
Village Walk Patchogue was a great place for our dad to live. The staff took great care of him, they were very friendly and attentive. They offer a fun social calendar with a variety of activities to...
The Perfect Way of LifeVillage Walk will allow older adults the opportunity to stay a part of the Village they love with the added security of all new, tailored, hospitality-based residential and health care choices—senior living to support engaged and active independence, and dedicated memory...
4089 Nesconset Highway, South Setauket, NY 11720
Thus far my aunt [name removed] seems content. The food is good, the room is clean and cared for by Staff. Love that bingo is Daily as she likes card games. The Medtech staff is also nice and kind, the Front...
At Atria South Setauket, we take care of all the work while you socialize and try new activities. Relax on the patio, swim in our outdoor pool or take a cooking class with friends. Enjoy the hotel-like amenities in the convenient Long Island community you love, right near plenty of shopping and...
130 Lake Ave S, Nesconset, NY 11767
Staff at Amber Court Smithtown is wonderful ! I would like to special mention [name removed], who is truly exceptional. The residents really appreciate her help and support. Her dedication is...
Welcome to Amber Court of Smithtown..a wonderful place to call home. When living arrangements are no longer safe or desirable, we offer an extraordinary alternative. Residential services, personal care assistance, and medical supervision are valuable features of this lifestyle. Our...
2995 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove, NY 11755
My mom is at the Bristal Lake Grove and is doing well in their memory care area. The facility is convenient and they have many great activities going on for the residents to participate in. The food is not...
The Bristal at Lake Grove is a lovely assisted living community, situated just minutes from Long Island's historic Three Village Area. This is our third Suffolk County assisted living residence. Like all communities of The Bristal Assisted Living, the senior care that residents will experience...
463 Middle Country Rd, Coram, NY 11727
The nurse and aids know the sweet side as well as the ugly side of my mother who has severe Alzheimer's. They are patient, understanding and work with her. She is kept comfortable and content "most" of the...
Welcome to All American Assisted Living at Coram. Our newly constructed residential community has been designed to create a homey, neighborhood feel.The All American difference is that we are committed to promote participation, inclusion and socialization. Our goal is to help residents to be as...
211 Lake Shore Road, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
My loved one is currently a resident at Lake Shore Assisted Living Residence. The facility was just recently mostly remodeled, so it's in very nice shape. It's very clean. The staff that I have met is...
Lake Shore Assisted Living Community is located near beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma, New York. Fishermen and nature lovers know this area as the home of Long Island's largest lake and beautiful sunsets. Whether you love watching the sunset over a breathtaking landscaped scene, or you like reeling in...
129 Lakeland Avenue, Sayville, NY 11782
After selling the home she lived in for over 60 years, my mom moved into a beautiful apartment While there she became unhappy and lonely, and after giving up her license and car, felt isolated. We heard...
The Bristal Assisted Living offers incomparable care, the finest luxury amenities, a packed activity calendar and so much more. Call today to schedule your visit.
5535 Expressway Dr N, Holtsville, NY 11742
We really couldn't be any happier with the entire facility. The cleanliness and friendliness being on the top along with good food and a great menu. Care has been very good too. Activities are ok the only...
Since 2000, The Bristal has helped families understand and embrace the advantages of Senior Assisted Living. Our privately owned senior care communities, and all they offer, are the finest you will encounter. Our senior independent living environment not only grants residents the freedom to come...
1529 N Ocean Ave, Medford, NY 11763
Excellent assisted living program, so Medicaid is accepted. Makes assisted living affordable and an option for all.
1350 Route 112 (PLEASE SEE NOTES), Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
50 Hauppauge Road, Commack, NY 11725
I have no complaints about how things are going for my mother since she has made the move into this community . The staff are always polite and I am comfortable with the care they have provided her. She has...
Gurwin Jewish provides a menu of options all on one campus. Gurwin pride shines through in all we do. Assisted Living by Gurwin: At Gurwin Jewish~ Fay J. Lindner Residences, you can have it all: the ultimate in luxurious assisted living in an environment that embraces the traditions of Jewish...
15 Wittridge St., Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
11 Wittridge St., Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
147 Lake Shore Rd, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
as a matter fo fact tis wonderful, were moving in first week in september its a beautiful palce and theyre one of the few places we found that were in our budget when we were looking for apartments. we were...
PO Box 256 366 Gibbs Pond, Nesconset, NY 11767
They're doing a good job taking care of my Dad here. It's a nice place, not overcrowded at all, and it has a nice homey feel. Dad complains about the people there being "too old", so they could use more...
Olsen Rest Home is an assisted living community located in Nesconset, NY. Nesconset is a hamlet located in Long Island, an area that is widely known for its unique culture, delicious seafood and Italian cuisine and distinctive music. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy catching one of the region's many...
400 Cassata Rd, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
I have lived here for about 20 years (basically since the complex opened) and I have never experienced better service. The landscape has looked absolutely incredible, the people that live here are extremely...
An active adult rental community located on the north shore of western suffolk county. Located near the Smithhaven Mall and Stonybrook University Hospital.The Waterfalls is a community consisting of 320 1 and 2 bedroom garden apartments. Residents enjoy an active clubhouse complete with formal...
The average cost of independent living on Long Island is $4,795 in 2022-2023.[01] This number comes from A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. This fee includes more than just rent. Often, the monthly rent may include the following:
The pricing model can vary — some communities will charge an all-inclusive price, whereas others will have various cost segments and add-on options.
The following figures represent the average starting costs for independent living communities without considering additional fees. They are useful to compare baseline costs of living, like rent, across the greater.
10.20 miles from you
Your zip code
15.58 miles from you
Many people pay for independent living through private pay options. This is because independent living costs are not covered by programs like Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term insurance programs. Nonetheless, seniors should closely analyze whether any public benefit programs can help them pay for the costs of future care in their Long Island independent living facility. Below are brief resource guides that show the key areas seniors should research when considering how to pay for independent living and long-term senior care costs.
Independent living is typically financed by your own resources and accumulated assets, such as savings accounts, pensions, Social Security benefits, investment returns, and retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs. Other sources of income often include rental income or annuities. Seniors should consider all private pay options and seek guidance on the best strategies to fund their senior living needs.
Eligible private income sources can also include any of the following:
Independent living is not regulated as a senior care community in New York. The New York State Department of Health makes it explicitly clear that it does not regulate this particular type of facility.
However, independent living communities follow the state apartment regulations for renters, including all state and federal laws for landlords and tenants. We’ve highlighted some important aspects of those laws in this section.
Federal protections for senior renters
The Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provide seniors or persons with disabilities with key protections. These are two foundational protections that seniors should be aware of. Both protect you from discrimination, while the ADA provides additional protection for people with disabilities.
Reasonable accommodations
Landlords must provide tenants with reasonable accommodations. This means, provided the request does not provide an overly heavy financial burden on the landlord, the landlord must provide the accommodation. If that accommodation is deemed unreasonable, another more reasonable accommodation can be met. What is considered a reasonable accommodation may vary. It can be a good idea to speak with an attorney specializing in tenants’ rights if you feel you are not being accommodated for a disability at your place of residence.
Reasonable modifications
Similar to reasonable accommodations, landlords are required to make modifications for tenants with disabilities, provided the cost isn’t too great. Again, it may be helpful to consult with a skilled attorney in the area of tenants’ rights if you feel your rights are being violated.
Inspections
Suffolk County rental property must meet these pre-rental inspection guidelines. This New York Residential Tenants’ Rights Guide lays out information on all the rights you have as a renter.
New York Department of Health contact information
Metropolitan Area Regional Office — Long Island (MARO)
320 Carleton Ave., Suite 5000
Central Islip, NY 11722
Phone: 631-851-3898
Independent living communities on Long Island are not under any COVID-19 mandates. General recommendations and best practices are provided by the New York State Department of Health. General Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines include the following:
Vaccinations. It’s recommended that all individuals eligible and willing receive vaccinations do so.
Facility cleanliness. It’s recommended that facility staff prioritize the disinfection of high-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces to help reduce the risk of transmission.
Independent living options can vary in terms of cost and amenities due to the population density and range of economic circumstances present on Long Island. Independent living facilities on Long Island may provide on-site amenities that include the following:
Independent living helps residents age seamlessly
Most independent living facilities on Long Island are designed to minimize the challenges of daily life for seniors experiencing the natural effects of aging. For example, unit and common area layouts often feature the following:
Sometimes, housekeeping and other convenient services or features are also built into the rental costs.
Independent living common areas and amenities provide on-site relaxation and convenience
Long Island independent living facilities often feature an array of convenient amenities. Residents can utilize common social areas. Here are some examples of the types of common areas you can expect from our partner Long Island independent living communities:
More affordable options may not have as many on-site amenities. However, they’re often only a short drive away from numerous city events and attractions, like senior centers, museums, shops, and restaurants.
Independent living facilities empower seniors to feel comfortable and safe
Many facilities feature one-bedroom and occasionally two-bedroom options, with three-bedroom options being far less common. Our partner independent living communities in Long Island often have the following in-unit features:
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Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Approximate number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Ronkonkoma on Long Island [02]
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Ronkonkoma population [02]
Long Island’s large population has produced an impressive health care system. Seniors can be comfortable knowing that Long Island hospitals rank toward the top of the country in some of the most important health care areas for seniors. See below for some of the excellent care options available on Long Island.
Long Island Jewish Medical Center
Ranked seventh in the state, Long Island Jewish Medical Center is nationally ranked in six adult specialties. It’s ranked 40th in the nation in geriatrics. Additionally, it’s ranked 41st in the nation in pulmonary and lung surgery.[04]
Stony Brook University Hospital
HealthGrades ranked Stony Brook in America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2023. This designation places the hospital in the nation’s top 1%.
South Shore University Hospital
Regionally ranked as 15th in New York, South Shore University Hospital is a general medical and surgical facility. It’s also a Northwell Health hospital. [05]
For the most part, you’ll be better off if you have your own car on Long Island. However, there are a few public transportation options.
The Nassau Intercounty Express also extends into western portions of Suffolk County. Suffolk County Transit provides transportation within the entire Suffolk County area of Long Island.
For senior-specific transportation, Essential Transportation for Seniors provides door-to-door transportation. The Able-Ride/Paratransit Program is perfect for those who can’t use the public bus system due to disabilities. Finally, there is the Long Island Rail Road. Seniors aged 65+ can use their Medicare cards, driver’s licenses, or birth certificates for half-price fares for trains not destined for New York City.
Long Island also has a couple of ferry services that operate year-round. One ferry crosses the Long Island Sound from Port Jefferson to Bridgeport, Connecticut. The other ferry takes people to Fire Island.
Some of our partner communities may offer complimentary or at-cost transportation to their residents. If on-site transportation is important to you, it’s best to ask each prospective community about what they offer.
Don’t count on getting around on foot or on a bike in Long Island, because the Long Island area is not considered highly walkable or bike-friendly, according to Walk Score. Using the Walk Score rating system, the area doesn’t rank high on a scale of 0 to 100.
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The bustling suburban atmosphere and quick pace of life on Long Island holds many activities that are easily tailored to seniors and their interests. Read on for a glimpse of some senior- and family-centered highlights of Long Island.
Oceanic activities
Long Island has a long list of activities for seniors and families to choose from.
Explore both the expansive views and experience history at the Montauk Point Lighthouse, which was commissioned by George Washington in 1792. This museum has a virtual tour and live webcams available.
If seniors want a more modern ocean-based experience, they can attend the annual Oyster Festival or brave the sea for whale and seal watching. Note that the Oyster Festival is not an accessible event.
Here are just a few more of the popular Long Island spots perfect for a beach day:
With miles and miles of beachfront, there is no shortage of sun and sand on Long Island.
Outdoor activities
If seniors want a land-based experience, they can enjoy watching the horses run at the Belmont Race Track, which offers accessible seating tickets available for those with disabilities.
For a more casual, less crowded experience, locals can enjoy a spot like the Jamesport Brewery or take a tour of some of the Long island wineries. In retirement, there’s always time to enjoy the beautiful inland areas that Long Island offers.
For those looking for more active options, there are numerous golf and outdoor activities in Long Island, with 13 golf courses available in the area. Some are in gorgeous state parks like Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park. But there are more than 57 parks and reserves in the area to explore. Many of the parks are even accessible for seniors who want to bring their canine companions.
Indoor activities
If you enjoy lifelong learning, head to the Cradle of Aviation Museum or the Firefighter Museum. Enjoy a game of bowling with friends at one of the many bowling allies in Long Island.
Spring Village at Stratford, The Watermark at 3030 Park, a CCRC and Maplewood at Orange are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Ronkonkoma, NY. 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 Ronkonkoma is 5,702 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. Ronkonkoma CDP, New York.
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. COVID-19: Data, Maps, and Reports.
U.S. News and World Report. (2022). Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health.
U.S. News and World Report. (2022). South Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health.
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