California continuing care retirement communities (CCRC)

Discover Continued Care In California

A private non-profit organization called CARF-CCAC provides a voluntary process for individual CCRCs to become accredited. Continuing care retirement communities are retirement communities with accommodations for independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care, offering residents a continuum of care. The communities ensure a dignified place for your or your senior to stay.

Recreation and Attractions In California

The diverse climate of California should be put into consideration when seeking a senior care option. Environments can range anywhere from deserts to subarctic conditions depending on latitude, elevation, and a location’s proximity to the Pacific Coast. Central Valley boasts a Mediterranean climate, yet southern and inland regions can be prone to wildfires often requiring evacuation measures. Such conditions may not always be conducive to receiving long-term care in southern California communities, so being aware of the climate factors of California will help to ensure your stay in a CCRC is without danger.

California's Climate, Geography, and Culture

California has warm, wet, and mild winters while the summers are long, dry and have low humidity. The average temperature is 61 degrees, with a high temperature of 74 degrees, and a low temperature of 48 degrees. There are only two seasons: the long, dry summer and the mild, wet winter. In the mountainous regions, all four seasons are in effect, with snow lasting from November until April. The summer temperatures are in the 80s to 90s while the winter temperatures are in the 50s and 60s. The spring and fall temperatures are between the 60s and 80s degree range. Expect a lot of sunshine is California, so be prepared for backyard barbecues and hitting the beach.

California's Personal Care Home Regulations and Laws

Continued care homes in California are subject to a list of rules, regulations, and laws that can be found on the California Department of Social Services website. Continued care homes are designed to provide stellar care and these regulations ensure that you or your senior get the care they deserve. These regulations include extensive background checks for employees, strict health codes, and routine facility inspections.

Crime and Safety In California

California’s violent and property crime rates are almost identical to the national average. However, there are statistically 83 crimes per square mile, which is most likely due to higher crime rates in major cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. When selecting a CCRC in California, it is important to be aware of which locations are the safest for the sake of your wellbeing, as well as your potential investment in property.

Location	Violent Crimes Per 1,000 Residents	Property Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Imperial	.3	3.15
Laguna Woods	.37	7.19
Rancho Santa Margarita	.55	4.13

Payment and Costs for CCRCs in California

The payment plans will differ at each CCRC, however, large entrance fees are to be expected and can range anywhere from $30,000 to $500,000 and even up to $1 million at a single time depending on your contract and location.

The type of contract entered into by the resident will include a monthly maintenance fee costing between $300 and $4,500 or more depending on which services are utilized. Always ask about additional maintenance or service fees before signing a contract. You don’t want any hidden bills!

The difference in prices is mostly a result of the type of contract residents enter into, as well as their individual health care costs and possible Medicare or Medicaid coverage. CCRCs usually like to see that you can pay for several months of your contract before even offering you a spot, so make sure your finances are in order before applying to a continuing care retirement community in California.

Contract Types Include:

Extensive Contracts – This contract guarantees a lifetime of housing and care at any and all levels provided by the community. Also, include monthly fees in exchange for a wide range of services. Because there is a relatively lower degree of risk, the upfront costs are much higher.
1. Entry Fee: $160,000 - $600,000
2. Monthly Fee: $2,500 - $5,400
Modified Contracts – Similar to extensive contracts, except one’s coverage of care, modified contracts are only extended to a set number of days. After exceeding this limit, services are paid for out of pocket by the resident. Monthly fees are also still charged at an ongoing rate.
1. Entry Fee: $80,000 - $750,000
2. Monthly Fee: $1,500 - $2,500
Fee-For-Service Contracts – Residents only pay for the services they currently use, however, are not safeguarded from any future changes in pricing or service availability. Most of the financial burden is borne by the resident, depending on Medicare or Medicaid eligibility. These are considered to be the contracts with the highest risk, even though their upfront costs are the lowest.
1. Entry Fee: $100,000 - $500,000
2. Monthly Fee: $1,300 - $4,300
Rental Agreements – Allow residents the ability to rent a housing unit and pay a monthly or annual basis. This type of contract does not guarantee access to health care on a fee-for-service basis, unlike other agreements.
1. Entry Fee: $1,800 - $30,000
2. Monthly Fee: $900 - $10,700
Equity Agreements – Shares of the community or association are afforded to individuals by the transferal of actual home, condominium, or townhome ownership within the CCRC. Healthcare services can still be purchased for additional fees. Through an equity agreement, the property’s appreciation benefits the individual or their estate as specified by the terms of the contract. This type of agreement relies heavily on the fluctuations of real estate in the area.

Senior and Elderly Rights for Continued Care in California

Entering a California CCRC doesn’t mean your rights are forgotten. Residents have the right to manage their personal and financial affairs and air grievances. All services provided by the CCRC and a description of your rights within each particular CCRC are to be displayed and understood upon entering into your continuing care contract. Contact a legal representative if you ever feel like these rights have been violated.

CA Continuing Care: Medical Record Rules & Regulations

Residents receiving any type of medical attention in California are entitled to a comprehensive and accurate record of their diagnosis and treatment. State and federal laws provide that residents have access to their records and health information, as well as the right to know when disclosures have been made. Otherwise, these records are to remain confidential for up to 7 years and can be accessed by submitting a request and providing a small fee. Coupled with California’s diverse, natural beauty, your move to a CCRC can be the perfect chance to retire comfortably.