Michigan continuing care retirement communities (CCRC)

Discover Continued Care In Michigan

Depending on your location and specific needs your options for continuing care retirement communities may vary. Since many sponsors of CCRCs include religious, fraternal and community organizations, they often instill their philosophies and ideals within the communities.

Continuing care retirement communities are ideal for seniors seeking accommodations for independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care because CCRCs offer residents a continuum of care. The communities ensure a dignified place for your or your senior to stay.

Recreation and Attractions In Michigan

Bordering the Great Lakes and with 11,000 additional inland lakes, Michigan has achieved a long history of waterfront recreation. If it’s natural ambiance and clean, open spaces you desire, look no further than Michigan! Additionally, the state boasts the nationally ranked University of Michigan Hospitals and Health Centers located in Ann Arbor, ensuring that cutting edge medical practices are always within reach. No matter your interests or level of mobility, there’s always something more to discover in the Great Lakes State!

Michigan's Climate, Geography, and Culture

The winter temperatures are in the 30s with heavy snowfalls and summer temperatures are in the 70s and 80s. The average temperature is 48 degrees, with an average low temperature of 39 degrees, and an average high temperature of 57 degrees. The northern state does offer some harsh winters, but with a cozy retirement home, what's better than spending the day snowed in with your loved one? This prideful state will welcome you with open arms.

Michigan's Personal Care Home Regulations and Laws

CCRCs in Michigan are subject to a list of rules, regulations, and laws that can be found on the Michigan Government website. Continued care homes that also participate in Medicare and Medicaid must comply with federal regulations.

Crime and Safety in Michigan

When comparing CCRCs and their communities in Michigan, it is important to consider the crime rates and safety of any prospective location. A safe environment can make all the difference. When possible, be sure to visit a city or town beforehand to make sure it’s the right fit. Luckily, Michigan’s crime rates are mostly below the national average in terms of violent and property crimes. Listed below are some of the safest places in Michigan:

Location	Violent Crimes Per 1,000 Residents	Property Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Raisin Township	0	1.33
Thetford Township	.43	2.76
Kinross Township	.38	3.45

(source: safewise.com)

Payment and Costs for CCRCs in Michigan

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. Some residents may choose a “buy-in” option, meaning they join the community through buying an actual property. Whether you buy a property or not, it’s still necessary to look out for any additional maintenance or service fees before signing a contract.

Extensive Contracts – Guarantee a lifetime of housing and care at any and all levels provided by the community. These 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 – Modified contracts only extend 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 on 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.

From a Report by The U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Senior and Elderly Rights for Continued Care in Michigan

Entering a Michigan CCRC does not mean your rights as a United States citizen are left behind. Additionally, all services provided and a description of your rights within each particular CCRC are to be displayed and understood upon entering into your continuing care contract. If these rights are violated, don’t hesitate to contact a legal advisor familiar with senior law. Coupled with Michigan’s diverse attractions and high-quality communities, your move to a CCRC can be the perfect chance to retire comfortably.

MI CCRCs: Medical Record Rules & Regulations

Residents receiving any type of medical attention in Michigan 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.