Since many sponsors of CCRCs include religious, fraternal and community organizations, and other companies involved with developing these retirement communities, they often instill their philosophies and ideals within the communities. 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.
Although there is no overarching federal agency that regulates retirement communities, the private non-profit organization CARF-CCAC provides a voluntary process for individual CCRCs to become accredited.
Residents of CCRCs in Missouri can enjoy a wide range of natural beauty and bustling cultural centers. With the Ozarks covering most of the southern half of the state, nature lovers can find some much-needed recreation out in these American lakes and mountains. Otherwise, take a trip to St. Louis’ famous Gateway Arch or Kansas City’s heavily fountained epicenter of museums, jazz clubs, and restaurants. Although you should have plenty of activities provided by your CCRC, getting out into the community can reveal new experiences and new friendships every day!
The weather in Missouri has an average temperature of 55 degrees, an average high of 66 degrees, and a low of 45 degrees. The winter temperatures are in the 40s and the summer climbs into the 80s. The spring temperatures are between 50 and 70 degrees with fall temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees. Missouri receives about 43 inches of rainfall and 12 inches of snowfall annually. In the north, snow can accumulate upwards of 20 inches. Missouri has been the historical starting point of many pioneering trails to the western U.S. During its French and Spanish occupation in the late 18th century, the state was a trading center for furs and other important textiles. Today, it's known for its friendly people and their love for the natural beauty the state has to offer.
There are rules and regulations that have been put in place to ensure that CCRC's are abiding the law and are not taking advantage of patients. A full list of laws can be found at the Missouri State's Health and Senior Services. It will detail the quality of care required, the payment methods, and estimated cost among other things. If something seems unclear, feel free to contact a legal aid to explain any confusion.
Although Missouri’s violent and property crime rates are slightly higher than other states in the U.S., there are still plenty of safe areas to call home. Finding an environment for you or your elderly loved one that is free of crime can only improve the overall experience of a nursing home. Listed below are some of the safest cities and towns for residents seeking a long-term care option.
Location Violent Crimes Per 1,000 Residents Property Crimes Per 1,000 Residents Ballwin .5 7.09 Savannah .4 8.34 Town and Country .28 8.95
(source: safewise.com)
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 national average cost of an entrance fee based on the most recent data is $248,000, and this price is expected to continue to fluctuate based on local housing prices.
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 facility 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.
The difference in prices is largely a result of the type of contract residents enter into, as well as their individual health care costs and possible Medicare or Medicaid coverage.
From a Report by The U.S. Government Accountability Office.
Missouri state and federal law ensure that your rights are not violated upon joining a CCRC. 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 your rights are ever violated, feel free to contact a legal representative. Coupled with Missouri’s diverse attractions and high-quality facilities, your move to a CCRC can be the perfect chance to retire comfortably.
Health screenings are very important when you or your senior is looking to join a CCRC. Many times an applicant’s health records are required in tandem with physical examination given by a physician selected by the particular CCRC. Unfortunately, it is common for applicants with frailties and those older than 80 years of age to be denied admission, especially if their pre-existing medical conditions are excluded from the health care coverage to be provided. CCRC residents are guaranteed complete medical records when joining senior care. 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 and can be accessed by submitting a request and providing a small fee.
