Cedarcrest Village: A Retirement Community in the Midlands
What Cedarcrest Village offers
Cedarcrest Village is a continuing care retirement community located in Columbia, South Carolina, designed for adults 55 and older. The community sits on a wooded campus in the Midlands region and offers independent living apartments, assisted living, and skilled nursing care on one site, so residents can stay in the same community as their needs change over time.
The independent living section includes one- and two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens, walk-in closets, and private patios or balconies. Residents have access to a fitness center, library, arts and crafts studios, and multiple dining venues on campus. The community also arranges transportation for shopping, medical appointments, and cultural events in Columbia.
Cedarcrest Village operates under a continuing care model, which means residents sign a contract that typically includes an entrance fee and monthly service fees. This structure allows residents to move between levels of care without leaving the community—a significant advantage for people who want to plan ahead for potential health changes.
Key Takeaways
- Cedarcrest Village is a continuing care retirement community in Columbia for residents 55 and older, with independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing on the same campus.
- Independent living residents have access to fitness facilities, dining options, arts programs, and scheduled transportation throughout Columbia.
- The community operates on an entrance fee plus monthly service fee model, and you should request their current fee schedule directly to understand the full financial commitment.
- Residents can transition to assisted living or skilled nursing within the same community if their care needs increase over time.
- Tours are available by appointment, and the community can answer questions about contract terms, what services are included in monthly fees, and what costs are separate.
Independent living at Cedarcrest Village
Independent living apartments at Cedarcrest Village are designed for people who want to live on their own but value community amenities and services. Each apartment includes a full kitchen, so residents can cook their own meals, though the community also operates multiple dining rooms where residents can eat with neighbors. Housekeeping services are typically included in the monthly fee, and maintenance staff handle repairs and upkeep.
The campus offers scheduled activities throughout the week—book clubs, art classes, fitness programs, and social events—and residents can participate as much or as little as they choose. The community also coordinates transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and cultural attractions around Columbia, which is particularly valuable for people who no longer drive or prefer not to drive in unfamiliar areas.
Assisted living and skilled nursing on campus
If a resident's health needs change, Cedarcrest Village's assisted living section provides help with activities of daily living—bathing, dressing, medication management—while residents maintain as much independence as possible. The skilled nursing unit offers 24-hour medical care for residents who need rehabilitation after a hospital stay or ongoing nursing support.
The advantage of a continuing care community is that residents can move from independent living to assisted living or nursing care without relocating to a different facility or leaving behind the community they have built. Staff can discuss the transition process and what to expect at each level during a tour.
Understanding the financial structure
Cedarcrest Village operates on a continuing care model, which differs from renting an apartment month-to-month. Residents typically pay an entrance fee when they move in—this is a one-time cost that varies based on the size and type of apartment—plus a monthly service fee that covers housing, utilities, dining, activities, and other amenities.
Some services and costs may be separate from the monthly fee, such as extra meals, personal care services beyond what is included, or specialized medical services. The community can provide a detailed fee schedule and explain what is covered under the standard monthly fee and what costs extra. It is important to review the contract carefully and ask questions about what happens to your entrance fee if you move or pass away, as these terms vary by community.
Location and nearby resources in Columbia
Cedarcrest Village is located in Columbia's Midlands area, close to shopping, dining, and medical facilities. The community's transportation service means residents do not need to drive to reach these resources, though the location also makes it convenient for family members visiting from other parts of the state.
Columbia offers cultural attractions including the South Carolina State Museum, the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, and numerous galleries and theaters. The community can arrange outings to these venues, and many residents use the transportation service to stay connected to Columbia's arts and entertainment scene.
Visiting and learning more
The best way to understand whether Cedarcrest Village is a good fit is to schedule a tour. During a visit, you can see the independent living apartments, tour the assisted living and nursing sections, meet staff, and observe the community in action. Many people find it helpful to visit at different times of day—morning, afternoon, and evening—to get a sense of the rhythm and activity level.
Bring a list of questions about the contract, what happens if you need to leave the community, how the entrance fee is handled, and what services are included in the monthly fee. Ask about the community's approach to activities, dining options, and how they support residents' independence. Staff can also discuss financial planning and whether the community works with social workers or financial advisors to help residents understand the costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between independent living and assisted living at Cedarcrest Village?
Independent living is for people who can manage their own daily activities and want to live in their own apartment with community amenities. Assisted living provides help with bathing, dressing, medication, and other daily tasks for people who need support but do not require 24-hour nursing care. Both are available on the Cedarcrest Village campus.
Do I have to pay an entrance fee to move to Cedarcrest Village?
Yes, Cedarcrest Village operates on a continuing care model that includes an entrance fee plus monthly service fees. The entrance fee amount depends on the apartment size and type. Contact the community directly for current fee information and details about what happens to the entrance fee under different circumstances.
Can I move from independent living to assisted living without leaving Cedarcrest Village?
Yes, that is one of the main advantages of a continuing care community. If your health needs change, you can transition to assisted living or skilled nursing within the same community, so you do not have to relocate or leave behind the relationships and routines you have built.
Is transportation included in the monthly fee?
Cedarcrest Village provides scheduled transportation for shopping, medical appointments, and community outings. Ask during your tour whether this service is included in the standard monthly fee or if there are additional costs for certain trips.
How do I schedule a tour of Cedarcrest Village?
Contact the community directly by phone or through their website to schedule a tour. Let them know what you would like to see—independent living apartments, assisted living, the dining areas, or specific amenities—and they can arrange a time that works for you.