If you are reading this guide, it's probably because you don’t know what CCRCs are and are interested in learning about them or you are just considering living in a CCRC and have questions about how they operate and how to choose one. Therefore, this guide will try to educate readers about CCRCs and offer guidance to those considering living in one.
What’s in the guide
Articles in this guide will:
- Explain most of terminology you will see and hear when researching and visiting CCRCs.
- Define what a CCRC is and other options for retirement living.
- Explain the CCRC industry.
- Explain the good and bad aspects of CCRC living.
- Detail the costs of CCRC living.
- Explain what makes a good CCRC.
- Detail what to look for and questions to ask when touring a CCRC.
- Explain CCRC disclosure statements, contracts, and fee structures.
- Offer moving advice and tips on adjusting to CCRC living.
- And much, much more.
CCRC living can be good
A big plus of living in a CCRC is the communal environment and the mutual support that can develop among the residents of a well-operated CCRC. You get to know an engaging selection of peers from many different walks of life and different perspectives. The communal living experience can bring you much happiness, new friends, and ongoing support as you grow older.
CCRCs also offer a variety of amenities and services that can make retirement more enjoyable and fulfilling. These may include:
- On-site dining and transportation
- Fitness and wellness programs
- Social activities and events
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Personal care assistance
- Health care services
Living in a CCRC can be a great way to stay active and engaged in retirement, while also having the peace of mind knowing that you will be taken care of if your needs change.
You have nothing to do at a CCRC unless you want to do something. There is no home maintenance, no need to cook, and you have a wide variety of health, fitness, art, and education equipment and classes. For practically any hobby you have now, you will find a group of like-minded people to do it with, and if there isn't already a group, you can start one.
CCRC living is also a good choice for those who don’t want to become a burden to the government or loved ones as they become ill and/or frail. The availability of care and support services in CCRCs gives you peace of mind as you age.
Here are some specific experiences of living in a CCRC, from residents themselves:
- "I love living in my CCRC. I have made so many new friends, and there is always something to do. I also feel good knowing that if my health ever changes, I can stay in the same community and get the care I need."
- "I moved into my CCRC a few years ago after my husband passed away. I was feeling lonely and isolated, but this community has given me a new lease on life. I have made so many wonderful friends, and I love participating in all of the activities. I also feel good knowing that I am safe and secure here."
- "I have lived in my CCRC for over 10 years now, and I absolutely love it. The staff is amazing, the amenities are top-notch, and the community is very welcoming. I have also appreciated the peace of mind knowing that if my health ever changes, I can stay in the same community and get the care I need."
CRCC living can be not-so-good
Of course, no living situation is perfect, and CCRCs are no exception. Some of the potential downsides of living in a CCRC include:
- The high initial cost of moving in. CCRCs typically require a large entrance fee, plus a monthly fee. It can be disconcerting to sell a home you have owned for decades and to invest all the money in a CCRC contract that gives you a promise of lifetime residence and care but usually offers no ownership.
- The lack of privacy and independence that can come with living in a community setting.
- The potential to be surrounded by people who are much older or sicker than you.
- A change of lifestyle.
- Lack of control over some health care decisions.
Lots to consider
There are many, many things to consider when choosing to live in a CCRC and when selecting one in which to live. Each person considering living in a CCRC has different wants and needs, some of which are must-haves, some are must-not-haves, and some are negotiable.
Not all CCRCs are the same. They have different types of contracts, housing units, amenities, and quality of services. This is where this guide may help you the most in your search for a CCRC by educating you on how CCRCs operate, the pros and cons of CCRC living, how to analyze CCRCs, and how to narrow your search to your final selection.
After learning about how CCRCs operate and what makes one better than the other, you can then make an informed decision about what is best for you.
↩ Back
No comments:
Post a Comment