A mid-sized city of approximately 125,300 people, Topeka is the capital of Kansas. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, it’s one of the best cities in the country for retirees. People over 65 make up nearly 17% of the population.
Assisted living is most appropriate for seniors who need help with everyday tasks but are otherwise healthy. These communities offer daily activities, meals and 24/7 supervision and support. They can also provide light medical care. Topeka’s monthly rate of $4,495 for assisted living is virtually identical to state and national averages, according to Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey.
Continue reading for assisted living cost comparisons between Topeka and cities in the region and information on local programs relevant to seniors. This guide also explains the financial assistance options that may help.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
COVID-19 restrictions and rules for Assisted Living Facilities are typically set by the state – to see the rules in your state, you can read our guide to Assisted Living in Kansas. Keep in mind that there may be other policies that communities put in place to protect their residents, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more – find contact information here.
Seniors in Topeka pay an average of $4,495 per month for assisted living care.
Topeka’s average cost for this level of care is just $5 per month lower than the norm for the United States. The city’s cost is $85 lower than the statewide average for Kansas.
Lawrence is the closest surveyed city, and its average assisted living cost is $43 per month higher than fees in Topeka. To the west in Manhattan, the monthly rate increases by $903, and seniors in Wichita pay $930 more than those in Topeka do. The cost is higher by $90 across the nearby border in Kansas City, MO, and lower by $620 in St. Joseph, MO. Assisted living communities to the north in Lincoln, NE, are priced $220 higher than in Topeka.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Kansas.
Contact | Description | |
Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging | (785) 235-1367 | The Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging provides programs and services to older adults in Shawnee County. Its trained volunteers can provide free, confidential counseling about health insurance options, including Medicare and Medicaid. The agency also provides congregate meals at senior centers, churches and other settings throughout the county. By participating in this meal program, seniors can enjoy nutritious entrées and make new friends. |
Assistive Technology for Kansans | (800) 526-3648 | This statewide program helps people with disabilities access the assistive technology they need. It offers product demonstrations and short-term equipment loans to help seniors find devices that meet their needs. The program distributes gently used durable medical equipment, including patient lifts, shower chairs and hospital beds to seniors. When donated equipment isn’t available, it can also connect seniors with various funding options for assistive technology purchases. |
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Kansas | (913) 897-8530 | Seniors with a love of learning can take non-credit courses at Kansas University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. These courses are designed to be fun, with no tests or homework. Each course costs just $50, and some of the areas of study include history, literature and geography. There are also tours and special events. While the program targets people ages 50 and older, all ages are welcome. |
Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | (877) 662-8362 | The Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for seniors who live in assisted living facilities. The program has more than 130 volunteers who are trained to investigate seniors’ complaints. These volunteers can help seniors resolve issues with staffing, food service and housekeeping. In addition, volunteer ombudsmen educate seniors about their legal rights and empower them to self-advocate. Ombudsmen services are free and confidential. |
Kansas Legal Services | (800) 723-6953 | This nonprofit law firm offers legal aid services to low-income Kansans. It can help seniors who have issues with Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, VA benefits, and other civil matters. To apply for free or low-cost legal help, seniors can call the toll-free number or complete an online application. The law firm also provides free legal forms for people who want to represent themselves. |
Topeka LULAC Senior Center | (785) 234-5809 | Topeka LULAC Senior Center provides many services and activities for the city’s older residents. Exercise classes, educational workshops and blood pressure clinics are just a few of the center’s offerings. It also organizes outings to museums, movie theaters, historic sites and other local attractions. Transportation to and from the center is available. |
Assisted Living Facilities in the Topeka area are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined at the state level. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.