Senior Living Apartments in Pensacola, FL

Adults in their retirement or near-retirement years who move to Pensacola senior apartments typically cover their monthly rent by tapping into their personal savings, using any private income streams they may receive (including pensions and veteran benefits), or making the most of public assistance programs for low-income individuals and households.

Although federally-funded programs like Medicaid and Medicare can’t be used to provide money to pay for senior apartment living, those programs can be beneficial in offsetting seniors’ health care-related financial obligations. That way, they have more disposable income to earmark for their senior apartment monthly rental fees and other costs of living.

Senior apartments across Florida are treated the same as other types of residential apartment spaces in that they do not have to be licensed. The only exception is that senior-only residential communities can only rent to those 55 and older.

The reason for this is simple: Senior apartment communities do not provide residents with any type of regulated medical care. However, this doesn’t mean that landlords, property managers, and owners don’t have to follow any laws or rules. The City of Pensacola Development Services Department handles building inspections. Regular inspections are made of rental properties in Escambia County, and you can check on any property’s record after downloading an app called Ask MyEscambia.

All senior apartments must comply with standards set forth by the Fair Housing Act. These standards make sure that no senior is refused housing because of their race, national origin, religion, or other protected classes. The Fair Housing Act also ensures that housing is designed and built to be accessible and safe based on reasonable accommodations as put forth in the  Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Standards. Additionally, all senior apartments are expected to follow established structural guidelines, including those related to the Americans WIth Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design, per the Florida Building Code. This holds true whether you’re moving to a downtown Pensacola studio senior apartment or a two-story senior living condo along the Gulf.

If you have a service animal or an emotional therapy support animal, you’ll want to note that landlords in Pensacola are required to honor any reasonable accommodation requests related to your companion. Just be aware that you may be asked to supply information to support your medical need for the animal. And if the landlord cannot safely accommodate the animal, you may be denied approval for residency.

It’s your responsibility to uphold any contractual agreements you sign with your landlord or a property management company. At the same time, the landlord or property manager must make sure to follow any laws and keep the property maintained. The state has a special landlord-tenant guide that may help you understand your rights as a resident of a senior apartment community in Escambia County.

Florida Department of Health contact information

Florida Department of Health
4052 Bald Cypress Way
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: 850-245-4444
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Pensacola senior apartments communities

In the Pensacola region, the spread of COVID-19 continues to be low, according to reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, residents of Escambia County are encouraged to not only remain up to date with changing health situations but to protect themselves by following recommended guidelines as put forth by the CDC.

There isn’t any specific type of COVID-19 regulation governing the operations of senior apartment communities in Florida. Nevertheless, adults 55 and older who are living on senior living campuses may want to take extra precautions such as masking or social distancing while in crowded indoor spaces. Those who haven’t received an approved COVID vaccine yet can receive one for free by registering online.

Florida has also set up a special program whereby seniors who are unable to leave their homes and want the COVID vaccine can have a medical provider come to their homes and administer the vaccine there. This can be arranged by emailing HomeboundVaccine@em.myflorida.com.

Senior apartments in Pensacola offer various features and amenities catering to the unique needs of older adults. Residents can expect spacious, well-designed apartments specifically tailored to promote comfort and convenience. Many senior apartments in Pensacola also offer maintenance services, providing residents with hassle-free living and peace of mind.

Luxurious living

Pensacola’s senior apartments are designed to provide a high standard of living for their residents. Upscale finishes, modern appliances, and elegant interior design are common features found in these apartments. Residents can enjoy crystal blue swimming pools lined with palm trees and beautifully landscaped common areas. With attention to detail and a tropical atmosphere, Pensacola’s senior apartments offer a taste of luxury seniors can truly savor.

Endless activities

Senior communities understand the importance of staying socially active and engaged. Many senior apartment facilities offer a variety of on-site activities and events tailored to the interests of their residents. From fitness classes in state-of-the-art gyms and game nights to group outings and educational workshops, there is always something to do and new friendships to forge. In addition, Pensacola’s vibrant community offers plenty of attractions such as art galleries, shopping centers, and pristine beaches, ensuring seniors always have exciting options for entertainment and exploration.

Accessibility and comfort

Accessibility and comfort are key priorities in Pensacola senior apartment facilities. Designed to provide a safe and comfortable living environment for seniors, they include open floor plans, grab bars in bathrooms, and step-free entryways, ensuring easy accessibility and mobility. Furthermore, many senior apartments in Pensacola are located near health care facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services, making it convenient for seniors to access the care they need. These apartment facilities offer a supportive and nurturing environment where seniors can age gracefully and enjoy a worry-free lifestyle.

Health care for seniors in Pensacola

Transportation for seniors in Pensacola

Although Pensacola’s walkability score isn’t bad at 36 out of 100, it’s generally not considered a place where most people walk to their destinations. The ranking is based on Walk Score, which measures the walkability of any address in comparison to other cities.^[05]

In fact, the majority of the city’s residents rely on their personal vehicles, public transportation, or third-party transit services providers like rideshares and taxis to get around. Accordingly, if you plan to bring a car when you relocate to a senior apartment community in Pensacola, be sure to ask about parking accommodations. That way, you can be sure you get a spot either in front of your building or in a nearby lot or garage as part of your monthly rental fee or add-on fee.

Riding on the ECAT

When taking buses in Pensacola — including those days when you don’t feel like driving — you’ll be making use of the Escambia County Area Transit system, which is referred to as ECAT. With ECAT, you’ll be able to take advantage of 22 different bus lines that crisscross the city. Though not all of the bus lines run seven days a week, enough of them have weekend routes to give you plenty of options to get to the store, find a beach or green space to relax, or head out with friends for dining and entertainment.

If you need accessibility because you use an assisted device, ECAT has you covered. All of the ECAT buses are wheelchair accessible and have accommodations for all passengers. They also have bike racks. Since Pensacola’s bikeability score is a decent 47 out of 100, you can easily use an ECAT bus route to get to a favorite biking path in the region, such as the 9.1-mile route along Pensacola Beach.

What if you have a disability and find it difficult to ride on the ECAT even though ECAT’s buses are accessible? Try the ECAT ADA. It’s a specialty curb-to-curb or door-to-door service that’s offered through ECAT.

Senior-specific transportation

You can find a couple of senior-specific transportation choices geared toward the retirement-age population. For example, there’s a Go Seniors! Transportation Program offered by the Escambia County Medical Society Foundation. This program is arranged in conjunction with local physicians and allows seniors who receive a health care voucher from their doctors to get transportation to Pensacola-based medical appointments for a $20 flat fee.

Another program that can cover your trips, whether they’re medical or not, is run through ECCT Paratransit Services. You’ll need to schedule a trip at least one day in advance, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll get a ride since the complimentary services are organized on a first-come, first-served basis.

Ultimately, you’ll find that you have many ways to get from your new home in a senior apartment community to wherever you want to go in the city and broader county. Remember that you can always make use of app-based rideshares like Uber and Lyft as well. You won’t get a senior discount, but you’ll be able to pick and choose your driver and maintain your independent, active lifestyle.

Senior activities in Pensacola

There is no shortage of activities to keep you going from morning until night, 365 days a year in coastal Pensacola. Though the city is a magnet for those who can’t get enough of the sports and recreation of its lengthy, attractive shoreline, Pensacola is much more than just watersports, fishing, and basking under an umbrella in the surf. From its popular downtown with shops and eateries to pristine golf courses and entertainment venues, this smaller city of 52,000 residents makes it hard to decide what to do next.

After moving into your senior apartment of choice and getting settled, you’ll want to explore all the facets of Pensacola that make it unique. A great place to begin is along any of its waterfront areas.

Beachside happenings and opportunities

Does Pensacola tend to be hot and humid? Yes, but its warmth is tempered by winds blowing over the Gulf waters. Any of Pensacola’s top beaches can be a welcome place for respite or relaxation. Try Pensacola Beach as your first stop along the approximately 50 miles of shore in this part of Escambia County. The beach itself is very sunbather- and swimmer-friendly. Plus, the water is notoriously warm because it’s not very deep. If you’re into fishing, consider hanging out on the nearly 1,500-foot pier with other anglers looking for a bite.

Other beaches can be found along the Gulf Island National Seashore, including the quiet Perdido Key Beach. Gulf Island is actually to the west of the city, but it’s worth the time to go there if you’re looking for a beach experience that’s less bustling and more natural beauty. The Gulf Island maintains a protected shoreline, which is perfect if you prefer beaches with untamed appeal. As a note, Perdido Key Beach doesn’t have a lifeguard. However, Johnson Beach on the same island does.

One notable type of beach that’s distinctive to Pensacola — and beloved by pet parents — is Dog Beach. There’s Pensacola Dog Beach West and Pensacola Dog Beach East. The westernmost beach is near Fort Pickens, which is a military fort in the area that’s become a must-see landmark. The eastern beach sits on Via de Luna Drive. Both beaches have amenities for both humans and their four-legged companions. Spending time in either place could be a wonderful chance for you to meet other seniors in the area who also play mom or dad to at least one pooch.

Of course, those aren’t the only beach hotspots to be found in Pensacola. However, they’re some of the best to begin your life in this seaside cityscape. After visiting them, try a few other public beaches like Langdon Beach, Quietwater Beach, and Opal Beach.

The chance to live your best life

Is staying active and fit important to you? Pensacola gives you quite a few chances to enjoy your favorite activities and try new ones. Take golf, for example. GolfPass rates the public greens and overall play high at The Club at Hidden Creek, Lost Key Golf Club, Cypress Lakes Golf Club, and Stonebrook Golf Club, among others.^[06]

Looking for outdoor racket sports opportunities? For tennis and pickleball courts, you’ll find many at both apartment communities and neighborhood parks. Consider joining the Pensacola Panhandle Pickleball Facebook group to find other players or join a team. And on rainy days, you can always work out at the Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA downtown if you join as a member. In addition to pickleball, the YMCA offers many exercise programs, from aquatics to indoor cycling and cardio and strength-training exercise programming.

Highpoints and happenings in Northwest Florida

It would be challenging to list all the potential ways to spend your days when you’re living in a senior apartment campus in Pensacola. Just be sure to see all the landmarks and highlight spaces first. This includes the Blue Wahoos Ballpark, home to minor league baseball. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, you’ll still be able to enjoy attending year-round celebrations and events at this multi-purpose venue. The facility hosts concerts and other types of live entertainment. Plus, it’s situated right on Pensacola Bay, making it a scenic spot to visit.

For an in-depth look at Pensacola’s naval history, make plans to check out the Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. It’s on the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, which means you’ll need to book a public access tour online unless you have a Department of Defense badge ID to allow entry into the secure facility. Once in the museum, you’ll find lots of artifacts and exhibits. While only the first floor is accessible for those who need accommodations, it’s still worth the experience. If possible, try to go on a weekday when there’s less chance of being turned away because the Naval Air Station parking lot is full.

What could be a better way to breathe in some fresh air and sightsee than to take a ferry ride? Pensacola Bay City Ferry leaves from several places around the city. These ferry cruises vary in length and theme. Try a Jazz Cruise or Sunset Cruise. Alternatively, watch the Blue Angels Airshow on a specialty cruise during these summer mini-excursions.

Finally, to make sure you manage to see as much as possible in Pensacola, take an air-conditioned 1930s Ford transit bus ride around on a tour of Pensacola’s landmarks. This is ideal for all ages, so bring your relatives and grandkids when they visit. The tour includes lots of education about Pensacola, courtesy of a tour guide who’s eager to explain the importance of every monument, building, or location.

Organizations devoted to seniors

You can find numerous senior centers and organizations in Pensacola. These allow you to connect with your generational counterparts and engage in your favorite — and soon-to-be favorite — pastimes. Case in point: The Bayview Senior Resource Center offers fun for those ages 50 and older in the form of drafts, bingo, and group educational programs and outings. You can stay on top of their programming schedule online.

The PSC Senior Citizens Club is yet another resource. Members meet on the third Tuesday of each month at the Pensacola State College campus student center. You don’t actually have to be a member of the club. Just being a member of the senior community in Pensacola is all you need to attend their ice cream socials, picnics, and holiday festivities.

All in all, if you’re looking for a particular thing to do, look up what Pensacola has to offer. Whether you want fine dining at a waterfront eatery or laid-back hiking along a rustic trail, you can find it in this popular historic town and tourist destination.