Vermont continuing care retirement communities (CCRC)

Discover Continued Care in Vermont

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. Although this process is very expensive and lengthy, communities that are accredited by CARF-CCAC can usually be considered of higher quality and standing than others.

Recreation and Attractions in Vermont

Between the maple syrup and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, residents of Vermont seem to have a palate for anything sweet and locally made. Quechee Gorge is known as Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon, acts as a meeting place for artisans and antiques, providing an authentic sample of the state’s finest crafts and specialties. No matter your range of mobility or interests, Vermont has something for just about everyone. Moving to a Vermont CCRC is a great way to preserve your independence and receive the care needed every step of the way.

Vermont's Climate, Geography, and Culture

Vermonters enjoy a diverse range of outdoor recreation year-round, from hiking in the spring and summer to skiing in winter, there’s always something to do seasonally. The northeastern state has sprawling hills and dense forests perfect for exploring. The New England culture is a hardworking bunch that prefers a cabin in the woods over an apartment in the city.

Vermont's CCRC Regulations and Laws

CCRCs are regularly monitored by government programs to ensure that you or your loved one is getting the proper care needed. A full list of regulations and laws can be found on the Vermont Department of Health website.

Crime and Safety in Vermont

Vermont may very well be one of the safest states in the entire country. Violent crime rates score at .99 compared to the national median of 3.8. Additionally, property crimes are much lower at 15.24. There is also an average of 5 crimes per square mile that is 6 times less than the most of the country. Finding a safe location for a long-term senior care option is well within the range of possibility in Vermont. Listed below are some of the safest cities found statewide.

Location	Violent Crimes Per 1,000 Residents	Property Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Bradford	0	6.06
Bristol	.51	6.18
Hinesburg	.45	8.59

(source: safewise.com)

Payment and Costs for CCRCs in Vermont

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.

Extensive Contracts – Guarantee a lifetime of housing and care at any and all levels provided by the community. This includes 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 born 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 & Elderly Rights for Continuing Care in Vermont

Entering a Vermont CCRC doesn’t mean your rights as a United States citizen are left by the wayside. The Constitution and Bill of Rights guarantee that your freedoms, privacy, and ability to act autonomously are preserved while receiving care at the community's various levels. Although Vermont CCRCs are the most expensive senior care option available, they are ideal for people who would like to maintain an independent lifestyle and age in place. Coupled with Vermont’s diverse attractions and high-quality communities, your move to a CCRC can be the perfect chance to retire comfortably.

Vermont CCRCs: Medical Record Rules & Regulations

Since the goal of CCRCs is to aid residents in living independently, most communities will require a health screening and other medical records in order for individuals to be admitted. Often applicants will need to submit medical records as well as a physical examination to be reviewed by the facility. 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.

Residents receiving nursing home care or any other type of medical attention in Vermont 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.