Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are communities that offer various levels of housing and care, so the community changes with you as your needs change. They typically offer individual homes or apartments, assisted living, and a nursing home all in one place. And residents can “move” within the community as needs change.
Levels of care in CCRCs:
- Independent living (also known as residential living) for those who aren’t ready for assistance.
- Assisted living (sometimes called extended living) that offers assistance with daily living activities that might include personal care, home care, dining options and transportation.
- Skilled nursing and rehabilitation care (short- and long-term) for those who need medical attention and round-the-clock care.
- Memory care for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other brain disorders.
Who can benefit from CCRCs?
CCRCs are for any senior — single, married or partnered, widowed, those in great health or those experiencing health challenges. They are most helpful if residents move into the community when they’re at the house/condo/apartment stage and can enjoy the freedom, peace of mind and variety of amenities that will enhance their retirement years. That also means that as their needs shift to the CCRC’s other living and care levels, those transitions will be easier because the resident already is a part of the community and feels established.
CCRCs are also helpful for those with spouses or partners who have different care needs than their own. One spouse can stay in a house or condo and yet be free to see their spouse/partner who needs a higher level of care. Spouses and friends can dine together, attend events and even continue to enjoy mutual friends, even if their care needs differ. For those who are single, widowed or don’t have adult children or other family members, CCRCs also offer social connections.
What to know about CCRC contracts
Residents sign a contract upon entering a CCRC. There are several different kinds of contracts or levels of care one can select. CCRC contracts include extensive, modified and fee-for-service clauses. Residents choose the level of care that they think they will need, plus which services and amenities they’d like.
Residents should consider not only where they are today in terms of health needs, but what the situation might be five or ten years down the road. They should also ensure that they can change their level of care and make sure there’s a cancellation clause that gives a breakdown of fees and refunds available.
