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How to Choose a Continuing Care Retirement Community

What exactly is a continuing care retirement community?

A continuing care retirement community (CCRC) provides a continuum of care for seniors at all levels of independence, from independent living in a house or apartment, to assisted living, to skilled nursing care or a secure dementia unit. A CCRC is an entire campus of living choices, and as physical or mental needs change, the resident may make a transition to a different level of care and age gracefully in the same community without having to relocate. (Be aware that most CCRCs charge a higher monthly rate as the level of nursing care increases.)

A CCRC is different from other senior housing facilities in that it typically provides a written agreement that the community will provide appropriate care for the resident's lifetime for those who qualify for continuing care. In most cases, an entrance fee is required along with a monthly fee.

Are you ready to move to a CCRC?

  • Do you need a little more help with daily living activities, or see that you might in the near future?
  • Are you wishing to enjoy a lively social calendar and more physical activities?
  • Do you need a little help with transportation?

The vast majority of seniors will advise you not to wait too long to make a move; do it before it's an absolute necessity and start your search long before you need to. This can be a very exciting time in your life!

What should you do to find a first-class CCRC?

  • Talk to your family doctor for a referral or check with your local social agency serving seniors to get a list of accredited facilities.
  • Check online for senior care facilities in your area.
  • Take tours of potential CCRCs and talk to current residents.
  • Check the credentials of administrators and other staff. A registered nurse should be directing the nursing services, and the facility should be adequately staffed with physical therapists.
  • Does the CCRC have a Medical Director on-site?
  • What is the overall atmosphere?
  • Is it too noisy or fragrant, or are the surroundings pleasant?
  • Ask about employee background checks and annual health checks, and are regular training opportunities held?
  • Check the facility's compliance with federal and state regulations concerning quality nursing care.
  • Observe the upkeep of the facility – the grounds and the buildings.
  • Are regular fire and disaster drills held?
  • Ask about the types of food choices and can the CCRC accommodate special diet needs?
  • Look at the activities offered by the CCRC and also in the surrounding cities and towns.
  • How close are the nearest hospital and doctors' offices?

All of these are important factors to consider.

Once you decide a CCRC is right for you, what's next?

Many times the community will have entrance requirements based on age, health and financial status. To live in a CCRC, you may or may not have to pay an entrance fee or life lease, and additionally, there will be monthly payments.

  • Ask about the fees and what they cover.
  • Ask about admission information and procedures.

Then, marshal your forces and keep your good humor. No move is without its challenges along the way. Here's to a smooth transition!

 

Submitted by:
Pam Merchanthouse and Susan Rusie
Marketing Department, Friends Fellowship Community, Inc.
2030 Chester Blvd.
Richmond, IN  47374

Email: pmerchanthouse@ffcinc.org; srusie@ffcinc.org

WayNet Member: Friends Fellowship Community, Inc.
Member Website: http://www.ffcinc.org

This article has a Creative Commons License.

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