Are you searching for senior living community options for yourself or a loved one? It’s important to distinguish the differences between different types of communities in order to make the most informed decisions about the future.
One senior living option for older adults is called a Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC, meaning residents have access to a plethora of services and amenities, and higher levels of care, on-site, if ever they’re needed. These communities also offer CCRC residents different contract types to choose from prior to move-in that will best align with their needs and budget.
Wyndemere is a Life Plan Community, which is another name for a CCRC. We offer vibrant and supportive lifestyles and health care services, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation, which gives residents peace of mind that additional support will be available on-site if ever needed.
Learn more about CCRCs in greater detail below, their benefits, and how much residents pay to live in a maintenance-provided, full-service community.
What is a CCRC?
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are residential communities that offer a continuum of care services for seniors, designed to meet their changing needs as they age. CCRCs are also sometimes referred to as Life Plan Communities. These communities typically provide a range of housing and lifestyle options, services and amenities, social activities, and wellness programs all within the same campus.
The key feature of a CCRC is that it allows residents to age in place, transitioning between different levels of care on the same campus as their health and support requirements evolve.
At Wyndemere, residents start in independent living apartment homes and townhomes, which offer an active and social lifestyle with minimal assistance. As their health care needs increase, they can move to assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitation within our community.
CCRCs often require an upfront entrance fee and monthly service fees, and the costs can vary based on the level of care and amenities provided. This type of senior living arrangement offers the advantage of continuity of care, a sense of community, and the ability to maintain relationships with friends and neighbors throughout all levels of care.
Regulations and specific services may vary from one CCRC to another, so it’s important for individuals considering such communities to thoroughly research and understand the terms and conditions of the contract.
What are the benefits of a CCRC?
CCRCs offer several benefits for seniors who choose to move in. Here are some of the advantages:
1. Continuum of care
CCRCs provide a full spectrum of care services, from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing care. This allows residents to age in place and receive the appropriate level of care as their needs change over time without the need to relocate to a different facility.
2. Community living
CCRCs often offer a vibrant and social community environment. Residents can participate in various activities, events, and social gatherings, fostering a sense of community and reducing feelings of isolation.
3. Amenities and services
CCRCs typically offer a range of amenities and services, such as fitness centers, dining options, recreational activities, housekeeping, transportation, and other conveniences. These services are designed to enhance the quality of life and provide a worry-free lifestyle for residents.
4. Safety and security
CCRCs prioritize the safety and security of their residents. This can include features like 24-hour security, emergency response systems, and well-maintained facilities, providing peace of mind for both residents and their families.
5. Financial planning
CCRCs often require an entrance fee and monthly fees, but the financial structure can provide predictability in long-term care costs. Some CCRCs offer refundable entrance fees or a predetermined fee structure that helps residents plan for their future health care needs.
6. Health care access
With on-site health services and staff, CCRCs provide quick access to medical care and support services. This can be particularly beneficial for seniors who may require regular medical attention or assistance with activities of daily living.
7. Peace of mind for family members
Families often appreciate the fact that their loved ones are in a supportive environment with access to different levels of care. Knowing that their family member can receive appropriate care without the need for frequent relocations can bring peace of mind to family members.
8. Estate planning
Some CCRCs offer options for estate planning, allowing residents to allocate a portion of their entrance fee as a refundable amount for their heirs, providing an additional financial benefit.
It’s important for individuals and their families to thoroughly research and visit potential CCRCs to understand their specific offerings, types of contracts, and costs before making a decision. Each CCRC may have unique features and policies, so finding the right fit is crucial for a positive and fulfilling experience.
Levels of care at a CCRC
At Wyndemere, we offer a LifeCareⓇ Choice program that gives residents unlimited access to our highly rated on-site health services, including assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. Here’s a quick breakdown of our care-focused lifestyles:
- Assisted living is for those who require some daily assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, transportation, and medication management.
- Memory care provides the same support services as assisted living, with an added layer of specialized care for those living specifically with memory loss. Both assisted living and memory care can be found in our Westbridge neighborhood.
- Skilled nursing is found in our Wynscape neighborhood and provides around-the-clock licensed nursing care for those who need longer-term care after a hospital stay.
- Rehabilitation helps residents recover post-surgery through therapeutic services and a homelike environment.
What does a CCRC cost?
CCRC costs vary across communities. Learn more about Wyndemere’s specific pricing plans and how you can make the most out of your or your loved one’s later years, today.
After paying a one-time entrance fee, monthly service fees begin at $3,550.
Discover a well-rounded retirement at Wyndemere.
If a Life Plan Community/CCRC sounds like the right type of senior living for you or your loved one, give us a call at 630-755-5006 and schedule a tour of our community to learn more about our active and supportive lifestyle.
