What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community? (CCRC)
Continuing Care Retirement Communities, or CCRCs, are a popular option for seniors who are looking for a community that can provide them with various levels of services as their needs increase over time. Many seniors will initially choose a CCRC while they are still able to live independently, enjoying the wide range of amenities, social activities, and services available.
The name, “Continuing Care Retirement Community” portrays its design. Each CCRC is designed to allow residents to remain in place as their needs increase. This is especially helpful for couples who may or may not need the same level of care over time. These communities are often resort-like with fitness centers, a variety of restaurants or dining options, an assortment of social activities and opportunities, on-site medical care, and transportation services.
Amenities
CCRCs are designed to offer seniors a range of amenities and services that can help them maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Many residents drive their own cars while others make use of the community-provided transportation. Most CCRCs have on-site fitness centers, which may include gyms, pools, and exercise classes. Some communities offer outdoor activities such as tennis, golf, shuffle board, walking trails, fishing, or other activities.
Because of their strong focus on community-based social activities, residents are often able to participate in overnight and day-trips to tourist destinations, casinos, theaters, and other forms of entertainment in addition to social gatherings held right inside their communities. Many CCRC’s have a variety of social clubs, classes, and events giving everyone the opportunity to socialize with other members of the community whenever they choose.
Many also offer dining options, including restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors, pubs, and bistros, as well as meal delivery services for those who prefer to eat in their own homes. Transportation services are also typically available, providing seniors with access to shopping centers, medical appointments, and other destinations.
CCRCs offer a range of living arrangements to accommodate the different needs and preferences of their residents. These include Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing Care. As a resident’s needs increase, so does their access to services, such as home healthcare or Assisted Living.
Independent living units are typically available, which allow seniors to live on their own in apartments or cottages. For those who require more assistance with daily activities, assisted living units are available, which provide help with things like medication management, bathing, and dressing. Skilled nursing care is also available for those who require more intensive medical care. Each community has its own residency requirements and fees directly associated with the level of care each resident requires.
Community
One of the key benefits of living in a CCRC is the sense of community and social opportunities that are available. Many CCRCs offer organized activities, such as fitness classes, art classes, and book clubs, as well as clubs and groups based on shared interests. There are also typically social events and outings, such as concerts, theater performances, and day trips to local attractions. This sense of community can help seniors stay active, engaged, and connected to others.
CCRCs offer a range of amenities and services, living arrangements, and social opportunities that can make them an attractive option for seniors who are looking for a vibrant and active community in which to live. Whether you are looking for independent living, assisted living, or skilled nursing care, there is likely a CCRC that can meet your needs and provide you with the support and sense of community that you are looking for.
The idea of potentially having to move multiple times after retirement in the event one’s medical needs change is scary. For many people, the idea of retiring to a community you love and being able to age in place is extremely desireable.
It should be noted that the cost of a Continuing Care Retirement Community is generally substantially more than other types of Assisted Living Facilities, but for those who can afford it and are hoping to live and remain in place for the duration of their retirement, CCRC’s are definitely something to consider.
If you are looking for a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) for you or your loved one, you can start your search here on www.Begincare.com for free. Search by location, radius, name, or service provider type to find a community that suits your needs.
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