Understanding the Benefits of CCRC
Choosing a senior care option may seem like a difficult decision at first. Depending on what services you need now or in the future, planning your long-term care is a process with many items to consider. Luckily, there is a retirement option that includes just about every level of care you could possibly need.
Benefits of Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) or continuing care facilities are quickly becoming the most popular option for retiring seniors. Designed to provide seamless transitions from independent living, assisted living, and eventually skilled nursing care, CCRCs are a comprehensive solution to your long-term care needs.
A good way to start researching and comparing CCRCs near you is by asking yourself what services are most important to your wellbeing. Are you looking to live alone or with a spouse? What other lifestyle preferences can your new retirement community accommodate? Is there a memory care unit for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia? By preparing a list of questions and reading expert articles before a visit, you’ll be able to review each continuing care facility to find the best fit.
What to Expect from CCRC
To start, most CCRCs offer very flexible housing options through a variety of contracts. Residents can enjoy anything from a spacious studio apartment to freestanding cottages and homes. In most cases, residents have the ability to “buy-in” to a community, essentially purchasing the property where they will be receiving care. Once purchased, a monthly maintenance fee covers the primary services and amenities included at the CCRC. Some of the services you can find at many CCRCs across the country include:
- 24-hour skilled nursing services
- Assistance with ADLs
- Premium dining options
- Laundry and housekeeping
- Full utilities
- Spiritual / Religious programs
- Appliance repair services
- Fitness centers
- Scheduled entertainment and activities
- Furnished living spaces
- 24-hour security
- On-campus medical personnel
- Memory care
- Educational opportunities
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Flexible transition between levels of care
Although most of these services are included in your monthly fee, there are some additional options that may require additional payments. Each CCRC is different in their pricing and offers, so it is best to understand clearly which services cost extra before signing a contract.
Living at a CCRC
Beyond the wide range of services and amenities found at CCRCs, the ability to retain an independent lifestyle is a key feature of these care communities.
Life in a CCRC is not unlike living in a regular neighborhood, except these communities are complete with 24-hour security and medical services. This ensures residents don’t feel cooped up and unable to move about freely. Between the various amenities, scheduled programs, and like-minded peers, CCRCs can be much more than just a place to grow old.
Seniors are united by their age, understanding what it takes to stay healthy both physically and mentally during retirement. For many people, these facilities create valuable networks of friendship and support during the golden years of life.
Through rough patches and smooth sailing, your community can keep you thriving and engaged with elderly living. Combined with an effortless transition between each care type, it’s easy to see why continuing care retirement communities are such a popular option for seniors today.
Compare and locate continuing care retirement communities near you today to find your new long-term care option!
