What are Continuing Care Communities?

Care That’s Always There

Continuing-Care Retirement Communities (CCRC), also known as Life Care Communities, are residential campuses where a number of aging care needs, from assisted living, independent living and nursing home care, may all be met in a single residence. Typically, elderly candidates move into a CCRC while still living independently, with few health concerns or healthcare needs. As patrons progress in age, and medical needs change, the level of nursing care and service increases proportionally in response. In such a way, the needs of patrons are consistently monitored and catered to, particularly as those needs become more intensive.

Continuing-care retirement communities are ideal for seniors who may be living in isolation and would like to be immersed in a hospitable environment with other people of the same age. Typically, a range of activities and amenities are provided for both recreation and resource.

Features of Continuing-Care Retirement Communities

CCRCs provide a variety of care and for seniors, including:

  • Health care and health monitoring
  • Meal provision
  • Comfortable living conditions
  • Housekeeping services
  • On-site meal program, offering 1 to 3 prepared meals a day
  • Laundry services or laundry facilities
  • Club house / meeting rooms for socializing
  • Scheduled social activities

Financial Matters

Often, a life-care contract is required for a senior to participate in a continuing-care retirement community. Contracts typically specify the shelter arrangements, residential services, personal and health care, and nursing care that the senior is guaranteed during their stay in the CCRC.

The American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) distinguishes three principal contract types: life care (also known as extensive or all-inclusive); modified; and fee-for-service (ASHA, 2002). These contracts reflect the differences in the way CCRCs charge for personal assistance and nursing care and the extent to which they guarantee the availability of this care without additional costs to residents.

To get an accurate estimate of the cost of particular senior home care and in-home senior services, contact the services listed on AlternativesforSeniors.com and inquire. A friendly associate will gladly assist you.

Other types of senior care exist in addition to continuing care. There are independent living options, such as retirement communities, senior apartments, and adult day care centers; assisted living facilities, such as residential care, continuing care communities, nursing and rehab centers; hospice care and care for patients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.