If you’re “of a certain age,” you may be finding that you’re having the time of your life as a healthy, active and engaged retiree. However, no matter how active and healthy you are, you may be wondering what will happen if and when your health needs change. Is it possible that moving into a Life Plan Community – also known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) – is the right move for you? And if so, when’s the best time to do it?
Choosing a Life Plan Community is a big decision – and a personal one. Some communities, like Wyndemere, allow individuals to join their communities as early as age 55 and are suitable for seniors of any age. Regardless of whether you’re currently looking to move into a community immediately or you’re simply looking at different senior living options, here are some things to think about in order to help you choose the right situation for you.
What is a CCRC?
A CCRC is short for Continuing Care Retirement Community, also known as a Life Plan Community. This is a specific type of community that offers independent living and a full spectrum of healthcare services for older adults, including assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing care, rehabilitation and respite care. While Life Plan Communities do allow direct admissions to high levels of care, moving into independent living will allow older adults to enjoy the full value and experience a Life Plan Community provides.
While this may sound daunting to older adults who “don’t feel old,” moving into a Life Plan Community early on can provide many benefits. Active, healthy older adults can enjoy the convenience and lifestyle that a Life Plan Community provides while having peace of mind that, as their health needs change, they will be able to receive the care they need without having to move away from “home.” There are no downsides to moving before you need any additional services.
What are the benefits of a CCRC (Life Plan Community)?
One of the biggest benefits that a Life Plan Community provides is peace of mind. At Wyndemere, residents have the option of our LifeCare Choice program, which provides unlimited access to on-site healthcare for the same monthly fee for life. Or, residents can choose a pay-as-you-use-it system, which offers reasonable prices for health care services when needed.
Besides peace of mind, Life Plan Communities provide a maintenance- and worry-free lifestyle for older adults. Residents choose a floor plan that works for their needs (at Wyndemere, we offer apartment homes and townhomes, for example) and pay one monthly fee for services, amenities, and so much more. Many Life Plan Communities charge a one-time entry fee along with a monthly fee, giving you access to future care services should you ever need them.
At what age should I move into a CCRC (Life Plan Community)?
There’s no “right” age when an individual should move into senior living. However, more and more seniors are realizing that moving into a Life Plan Community sooner rather than later provides innumerable benefits.
The biggest benefit of moving into a CCRC “early” in your senior years is financial security. Entering a community while you’re still independent allows you to secure any future care at lower, stabler rates, protecting you from rising healthcare costs. Senior living communities also allow older adults to say goodbye to the responsibilities (and costs) of homeownership. It also provides a great incentive for downsizing and rightsizing your lifestyle.
In short, moving into a Life Plan Community allows older adults the opportunity to live their retirement years the way they’ve always wanted, without having to worry about chores and tasks, and giving them the chance to explore their newfound freedom to the max.
Start living life to the fullest in Wheaton, IL
Our Life Plan Community allows residents to live life on their own terms without worry. From the comfort ofhttps://wyndemerelcs.com/assisted-living/respite care and rehabilitation, everyone can experience a wonderful way to live. Learn why our neighborhood approach to senior living as a CCRC in Wheaton, IL, is right for you.
