Tag: independent living

April 24, 2024 | Levels of Care - Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Continuing Care Retirement Communities: Are They Right for You?

Embarking on the journey of retirement often prompts a series of important decisions. One of the biggest – and most exciting – decisions you will make is where to spend your retirement. If you’ve thought about senior living and have been doing research, then you know there are many options. Finding the ideal senior living arrangement is a significant step, and the landscape is rich with choices. But which one is right for you? As you research, you’ll discover continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), sometimes called life plan communities.

To help you evaluate your choices, you’ll need to understand what continuing care retirement communities provide along with an idea of their costs and contract obligations.

Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one? We’re here to help at every step. And even though we specialize in Independent and Assisted Living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living. Part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer. When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebar.

What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community?

CCRCs are designed with a comprehensive approach, aiming to provide residents with a continuum of care that evolves to meet their changing needs. The allure lies in the promise of a supportive environment where individuals can age gracefully without the need to relocate as their health needs shift. A CCRC provides living arrangements that ranges from standalone homes, townhouses and apartments to private or semi-private rooms.

With almost 2,000 CCRCs across the country, these communities provide independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing care, all within one community.

Continuing care retirement communities are ideal for:

  • Individuals looking for a comprehensive long-term living situation with a variety of options now and in the future
  • Couples whose spouse or partner requires a different level of care

Understanding CCRCs

  • Choice of housing based on availability
  • Meal plans
  • Recreational and social activities
  • 24-hour security
  • Transportation
  • Housekeeping
  • Building modifications to promote accessibility and mobility
  • Emergency help

What is a Continuum of Care?

A continuing care retirement community has a continuum of care. This simply means that a CCRC can provide different levels of senior care services based on community availability as well as each resident’s physical needs and abilities.

What are the Different Levels of Care?

Independent Senior Living

This maintenance-free lifestyle comes with a variety of housing options: standalone homes, townhouses, condos and apartments. Community dining, services and recreational activities are geared to the interests of older adults. Independent senior living is ideal for individuals who require little to no assistance with daily living tasks.

Two older men are gardening together, planting flowers in a raised garden bed. Both are smiling and wearing blue t-shirts. Gardening tools and gloves are nearby. The background has a light, textured pattern.

Assisted Living

Assisted living services encourage independence but offer a higher level of support. Older adults in assisted living receive all the services provided in independent living plus:

  • Help with the activities of daily living (dressing, bathing, walking, toileting)
  • Medication reminders
  • Personalized care plans

Memory Care

This level of senior care refers to a specialized type of long-term care that is designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other memory-related disorders. Memory care programs are specifically tailored to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals experiencing memory loss.

Skilled Nursing

Skilled nursing care is the highest level of care in a CCRC and is designed for individuals who require 24-hour medical care and assistance with all activities of daily living. Residents in skilled nursing care typically have their own rooms and receive care from a team of health care professionals, including nurses, therapists and social workers. Skilled nursing staff can administer:

  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy
  • IV therapy
  • Post-stroke, after-surgery and cardiac care

What are the Benefits of a Continuing Care Retirement Community?

CCRCs offer a range of benefits that can make them an appealing option for older adults who are looking for a secure and supportive place to retire. While CCRCs offer the same benefits as other senior living arrangements, they do offer their own unique advantages, including:

  • Levels of care. CCRCs provide a continuum of care, ensuring that residents have access to the appropriate level of support as their needs evolve. This can be a significant source of peace of mind for both residents and their loved ones, knowing that care is readily available if needed.
  • Access to health care services. CCRCs typically have health care services available on-site, including assisted living and skilled nursing care. This means that residents can receive necessary medical care without needing to leave the community. This can be a major convenience, especially for older adults who may have difficulty managing multiple care arrangements.
  • Aging in place. Residents can age in place within the same community, promoting a sense of familiarity and continuity. This is especially beneficial for couples or individuals who want to stay together even if one partner requires a higher level of care.
  • Predictable expenses. CCRCs typically require an entrance fee and monthly fees, which cover the cost of future care. This can provide peace of mind for residents knowing that their long-term care expenses are covered.

How Much Do CCRCs Cost?

A continuing care retirement community costs more than other senior living choices. You’ll be charged an entry fee and monthly expenses based on services. These prices vary depending on the geographic location and your lifestyle.

Understanding the Financial Structure of CCRCs

The entrance fee, also known as buy-in fee, will secure your place in the community. Your buy-in fee pays for your ability to move from one care level to another. This amount also goes into maintaining and improving the buildings. Across the country, the buy-in fee can range anywhere from $40,000 up to $2 million. The national average is $414,722.

Monthly expenses cover amenities and services (meals, maintenance, housekeeping, activities and events, plus personal assistance as needed).

How Much Should I Budget for Monthly Fees?

In 2021, the average totalled $3,555 per month. However, these costs have been rising by 4% or more per year.

How Can I Finance the Entrance and Monthly Fees?

Many people use the profits from selling their home to finance the entrance fee. While waiting for those funds, short-term home equity loans and bridge financing are available. In some continuing care retirement communities, the entrance fee can be partially refunded based on how long the resident lives there.

Once you’ve secured housing in a CCRC, there are also ongoing monthly fees to consider. These ongoing expenses can be covered by a variety of sources.

Retirement income from Social Security, pensions and retirement savings can be a steady source of income for these costs. Long-term care insurance can also play a role. Many policies offer daily or monthly benefits to help cover assisted living or nursing care expenses within the CCRC.

Health savings accounts (HSAs) offer another financing option. Funds accumulated in HSAs can be used for qualified medical expenses, including some long-term care costs. Medicare and Medicaid can also be potential resources. While Medicare generally doesn’t cover long-term care, Medicaid may offer assistance, depending on your income and assets. It’s important to explore eligibility requirements carefully.

Remember: The best financing option for you will depend on your individual financial situation, risk tolerance and long-term care needs. Consulting with a financial advisor can help you create a personalized plan for managing both entrance fees and ongoing monthly costs in a CCRC.

Understanding a CCRC Contract

As you visit continuing care retirement communities, you’ll notice some differences. One of these is the type of contract you’ll need to sign.

Buy-in contracts come in three forms and determine the amount you’ll pay as an entrance fee.

  1. Extensive life-care contract (Type A). Assisted living, along with medical and nursing care will be provided at no extra cost to you. You are prepaying for health care services that you may, or may not, need in the future.
  2. Modified contracts (Type B). You’ll receive medical services for a limited time and up to a certain dollar amount. If you need more care in the future, your costs will rise.
  3. Fee-for-service contracts (Type C). This is a pay-as-you-go model, and while this is the least expensive entrance amount, the monthly fees can add up.

Like any legal document, contracts are complicated. If you choose a CCRC, read your contract thoroughly or ask the advice of a legal professional. Make sure you are fully confident in your decision and understand the contract before signing.

Three Factors to Consider Before Choosing a CCRC

  1. Financial. CCRCs can be a significant financial investment. Carefully consider your budget and whether you can afford the entrance fee and monthly fees. Consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized guidance.
  2. Health Needs. Assess your current health status and anticipate any potential future care requirements. If you foresee needing assisted living or skilled nursing care, a CCRC can provide a seamless transition and peace of mind. However, if you prefer to manage your own care arrangements, a CCRC may not be right for you and other senior living options may offer a more tailored fit.
  3. Personal Preferences. Assess your desired level of independence, social engagement and amenities. CCRCs offer a range of activities and services, but it’s essential to ensure the community aligns with your interests and personality. Think about your preferred living environment, the type of activities you enjoy and the overall atmosphere you seek.
  • Do you get a good feeling from the community after a tour?
  • Is the location close enough for your friends and family?
  • Is the environment enriching? Do you see a lot of activity?
  • Did you get a warm welcome from staff and residents?
Continuing Care Retirement Community cost comparison graphic

Unsure if a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is the Right Choice?

Thinking ahead about your retirement living situation is a smart decision that can greatly benefit your future. While CCRCs offer a continuum of care and peace of mind for many seniors, it’s essential to explore all your senior living options before making a decision.

Choosing a CCRC is a significant commitment, both financially and emotionally. It may not fit every budget or lifestyle preference. Fortunately, CCRCs aren’t the only option available. Independent living communities provide an attractive alternative, offering an enriching lifestyle with amenities, services and activities for adults. Unlike CCRCs, independent living communities don’t require residents to have additional support or care on-site, providing freedom and flexibility while still fostering a sense of community.

Our blog post dives deeper into the comparison between independent living and CCRCs, offering clarity and guidance as you begin your senior living journey. Explore how these options align with your needs, preferences, and budget considerations to make an informed decision that sets the stage for a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

Make an Informed Decision

Every question you ask and all the research you do is important. Understanding your senior living options takes you one step closer to a happier, more fulfilling life. A CCRC is just one type of retirement community among many others. By knowing what’s important to you and the financial impact of your decision, you can relax and get the most out of your retirement years.

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January 10, 2024 | Independent Living - Levels of Care - Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Deciding on the Right Level of Senior Care

Facing the need for senior care can be a complex and emotional journey. We all yearn for our loved ones to thrive in environments that nurture their well-being and offer the support they deserve. Yet, navigating the diverse landscape of care options can feel overwhelming, shrouded in uncertainty and anxieties about the future.

It’s natural to worry about the impact on your loved one’s independence, comfort and sense of self. These concerns are valid, and we acknowledge the vulnerability that comes with finding the right fit. We understand that choosing the right care level is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about honoring individual needs and aspirations while ensuring a life filled with dignity and joy.

Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and understanding you need to make the best choice for your loved one. We’ll explore the different types of senior care, their benefits and limitations, and offer practical tips to help you evaluate each option through the lens of your loved one’s unique needs and preferences.

Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one? We’re here to help at every step. And even though we specialize in Independent and Assisted Living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living, and part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer. When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebar.

What’s the best way to choose the right level of care?

Balance your loved one’s need for support alongside their desire for independence. Consider safety but give them the freedom to do what they can for as long as they can. Maintaining self-worth and personal agency boosts feelings of well-being and improves quality of life.

The key to success is thinking ahead. Know your senior care options and the kinds of needs they support. Having a plan in place will keep your family from being forced to decide under pressure.

What are the options for senior living?

Retirement communities offer maintenance-free living in safe, age-friendly homes designed for adults aged 55 and older. An enriching lifestyle along with healthy dining creates a nurturing, social atmosphere that promotes a positive quality of life.

Independent Senior Living

These communities feature a range of housing options, from apartments to freestanding homes, providing a comfortable lifestyle. Residents in independent living have the freedom to maintain autonomy in their lifestyle with the support of family or through services that allow them to achieve independence through outside care. Independent living empowers older adults to access assistance when they need it and stay fully in charge of their health decisions in the living situation that feels right for them.

Assisted Living

Assisted living residents benefit from the same amenities but have an individualized care plan that lists extra services to help them with the activities of daily living.

Senior couple walking and smiling

Skilled Nursing Facilities

Patients receive hospital-level care from trained medical staff. Skilled nursing can provide:

  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy
  • IV therapy
  • Post-stroke, after-surgery and cardiac care

Memory Care

This level of senior care provides maximum personal assistance in a structured, secure environment for those diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive difficulties.

In-Home Health Care

For seniors choosing to live at home, trained professionals bring medical care to their door.

How do you determine the right level of care?

As you weigh what level of care your loved one needs, consider these five areas.

Care needs assessment questionnaire

Based on your answers to this informal needs assessment, you can determine if the best situation is:

  • Independent senior living. Your loved one desires the freedom to maintain autonomy in their lifestyle with optional support from family or third-party services. They remain in charge of their health decisions and can access their choice of assistance then they need it. 
  • Assisted living or in-home health. Your loved one needs minimal assistance and supervision with daily activities like preparing meals and medication management. They can safely move around their home environment with the help of a walker or wheelchair, and they have good thinking and communication skills.
  • Assisted living, in-home health or skilled nursing facility. Your loved one requires hands-on daily assistance such as physical lifting, bathing and help with the tasks of daily living.
  • Skilled nursing or a memory care community. Your loved one requires maximum support with a caregiver doing most tasks for them.

Key factors in choosing a senior care option

You’re not alone in making this decision. Get input from your loved one and family members.

Quality of life

Some older adults thrive on the buzz of a big, social community. Others look for quieter one-on-one times and even a touch of solitude now and then. Natural landscapes or city streets? Arts and crafts or sports and physical activities? Retirement communities have monthly calendars of activities that will show you the themes and types of wellness that community supports.

Senior woman painting flowers on canvas

Care and Support

In assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care facilities, health care professionals and staff members work together on a needs assessment to create a personalized senior care plan. Mobility, medical conditions, fine motor skills, mental acuity, mood and awareness all play roles in this assessment.

Budget Considerations and Financial Planning

The key to affording senior care options is thinking long-term. Plan for annual rises in costs. Combining retirement income, savings and investments, along with funding from Medicaid or Veteran’s (VA) benefits, will get you started on a realistic budget. As the need for more assistance arises, the cost of senior living increases.

Legal and Contractual Aspects of Care Arrangements

When hiring in-home health or moving into independent senior living, assisted living, skilled nursing facility, or a memory care community, you will be asked to sign contractual agreements that will cover what will be provided, the financial responsibilities, and liabilities. Although the documents are long, read them carefully and consult a lawyer if necessary.

Professional Advice

Talk to people you trust.

  • Start with your loved one’s health care team. Attend appointments and check-ups as often as possible. Many hospitals have social workers on staff who can provide resources and counseling.
  • Ask a lawyer to review senior care contracts, and know your rights.
  • Enlist the aid of a financial planner or other knowledgeable professional to help you determine how much of the out-of-pocket costs you can handle.
  • Your local Eldercare can provide advice and connect you to services. They can answer questions about insurance and benefits, support services, housing, and legal rights.

Now that you’re familiar with your options for senior care, schedule visits to see these communities in action. Bring along your loved one and other family members and friends. Whether independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care or in-home care turns out to be the best fit for your loved one, you’ll feel confident you’re making the right choice at the right time.

Many families formalize agreements with family members. Caregiver contracts provide hourly wages to a relative or friend for at-home services. Talk to a lawyer about setting this up.

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November 22, 2023 | Finance & Planning - Independent Living - Managing Costs | by hawthornseniorliving

How Independent Senior Living Can Stretch Your Retirement Budget

Choosing independent senior living can be a smart financial decision for many adults. With the rise in the cost of living, it’s important to find ways to save money while still maintaining a high standard of living. Independent senior living communities offer a range of benefits that can help you do just that.

Explore how choosing all-inclusive independent living can save you money in the long run, from reduced maintenance costs to included amenities and services. The key to gaining financial freedom in your retirement is to find a balance between your desired lifestyle and financial security. We will explain the benefits of independent senior living and how it can stretch your retirement budget, providing not just a comfortable home but also financial freedom.

Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one?  We’re here to help at every step.  And even though we specialize in Independent and Assisted Living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living, and part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer.  When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebar.

Disclaimer: This content is not intended as financial advice. Remember to review your plans and budgets with a licensed financial professional when making significant financial decisions.

What Is Independent Senior Living?

Independent senior living refers to residential communities designed specifically for adults over the age of 55, and in some cases over the age of 62, who can live a lifestyle without the intervention of care services offered by the community where they reside. These communities may offer a range of housing options, from apartments and condominiums to cottages or patio homes, where individuals are able to maintain their independence and access various amenities and services.

Independent senior living refers to residential communities designed specifically for adults over the age of 55, and in some cases over the age of 62, who can live a lifestyle without the intervention of care services offered by the community where they reside. These communities may offer a range of housing options, from apartments and condominiums to cottages or patio homes, where individuals are able to maintain their independence and access various amenities and services.

Why Choose Independent Living Sooner Rather Than Later

Imagine a community where you don’t have to worry about cooking meals, washing dishes or mowing the lawn. Where exercise classes, social activities and clubs are offered on-site. And where your friends live right next door. That’s independent living. And choosing independent living when you’re younger allows you to take full advantage of all the great offerings. These communities are not just places to reside; they are vibrant hubs of activity, social connection and enrichment.

Seniors sitting by firepit

Independent living communities offer a myriad of benefits to residents, including maintaining independence, enhancing social interactions, focusing on health and wellness, ensuring safety and security, enjoying a stress-free living environment, and achieving peace of mind through careful financial planning. By making this choice early, older adults can truly embrace the freedom and fulfillment that their well-deserved retirement years have to offer.

How Can Independent Senior Living Make My Money Go Further?

One of the biggest expenses in retirement is housing. If you own a home, you’ll have to pay for property taxes, homeowners insurance and home maintenance. Even if you don’t have a mortgage, these costs can add up, especially as you get older and need more assistance with home maintenance.

Social and Recreational Opportunities

Maintaining an active social life and engaging in recreational activities are essential aspects of a fulfilling retirement. Independent living communities offer a variety of social events, clubs, and classes, often at no extra cost. These activities not only enrich your social life and promote health and wellness, but they also prevent the need for costly entertainment options outside the community.

Seniors putting together a puzzle

Downsizing and Cost Efficiency

One of the significant advantages of independent senior living is rightsizing, also known as downsizing. These communities often offer smaller, easier-to-manage apartments or cottages. By downsizing, you reduce maintenance costs, property taxes and utility bills, freeing up a considerable portion of your budget for other necessities or leisure activities.

How To Pay for Independent Living

Most adults pay for independent living using personal funds, such as retirement savings, pensions and income from investments. Some may also be eligible for government assistance or private insurance programs that can help cover the cost of independent living. Here are some of the most common ways to pay for independent living:

  • Personal funds. This includes retirement savings such as 401(k)s and IRAs, as well as pensions and income from investments.
  • Government assistance. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers several programs that can help low-income seniors afford independent living, including Section 202 subsidized housing and the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program.
  • Private insurance. Some long-term care insurance policies may cover the cost of independent living, especially if you require some level of personal care assistance.
  • Life settlements. A life settlement is a financial transaction in which you sell your life insurance policy to a third party for a lump sum of cash. This can be a way to free up money to pay for independent living, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
  • Consider a roommate. Choosing to share an apartment with a roommate in senior living cuts the cost of one of the biggest monthly expenses in retirement: rent. You’ll also get companionship and have less space to take care of.
  • Talk to a financial advisor. Ultimately, navigating your retirement journey with confidence requires expert guidance. Connecting with a seasoned financial advisor is the most proactive step you can take. These professionals specialize in crafting personalized plans tailored to your retirement goals. By consulting with a financial advisor, you gain invaluable insights into structuring your finances effectively. They can assist you in formulating a strategy for covering the costs of independent living with a plan tailored precisely to your unique needs.

Tips for Saving Money in Independent Senior Living

Independent senior living communities offer a great way for adults to maintain their independence while enjoying the benefits of community and support. However, the cost of independent senior living can vary widely, so it’s important to plan ahead and save money where you can. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Choose a community that fits your budget.Not all independent living communities are created equal. Some communities are more expensive than others, so it’s important to shop around and find a community that fits your budget.
  • Take advantage of discounts and promotions. Many independent living communities offer discounts to residents. For example, you may be able to get a discount on your rent if you sign a long-term lease.
  • Take advantage of community resources. Many independent living communities include various activities, amenities, and services in the monthly rent. This includes transportation services, wellness programs, and educational classes. Take advantage of these resources to save money and stay healthy.

It’s not just a matter of saving money – it’s about embracing a fulfilling lifestyle that enhances your overall well-being while securing your financial future. Consider exploring independent senior living options to make the most of your retirement years both financially and emotionally.

August 04, 2023 | Independent Living - Levels of Care - Selecting Your Ideal Community | by hawthornseniorliving

What Is Independent Senior Living?

This educational article was written by the team at Hawthorn Senior Living.

Is Independent Living the right choice for you?

As we age, the idea of maintaining our independence becomes more and more important. That’s where independent senior living comes in. If you’re considering this retirement lifestyle choice for yourself or a loved one, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of senior living.

From social activities to dining choices and unique floor plans, independent living offers a world of possibilities. So, let’s dive in and discover if it’s the right choice for you.

Our homes are filled with memories of family, friends and good times. Homes reflect who we are. Homes reflect our stories and our journeys. And while changing your living space, cleaning out your closets, and starting a new chapter can sound frightening, the move to independent senior living can be the catalyst that helps you live vibrantly while protecting your health, happiness and future.

Statement of Fairness: Considering senior living options for yourself or a loved one? We’re here to help at every step. And even though we specialize in Independent and Assisted Living communities, our goal is for YOU to find your best path to gracious retirement living, and part of how we achieve that is by providing reliable information on all types of senior living, not just the ones we offer. When our offerings serve as useful illustrations to a specific topic, you can find that information in the attached sidebar.

What is Independent Senior Living?

If you’re an older adult who doesn’t need help with daily living routines – like dressing, hygiene and medication management – independent retirement facilities were built with you in mind. These communities are designed to give older adults a sense of belonging, a safe place to live, social opportunities, and programs that meet their physical and emotional needs.

Can you relate to any of these common retirement concerns?

Being alone.

As we age, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves spending more time alone. We simply don’t have as many social connections as we used to, and being alone can be difficult.

Staying mentally and physically active.

A healthy lifestyle can prevent or slow down change to maintain energy, mental clarity and physical resilience.

Home upkeep.

If your home care still includes mowing the lawn, shopping for groceries, washing the floors, doing laundry and tidying up, your to-do list never ends. Finding reliable and affordable help takes time, research and scheduling.

Safety.

When someone rings your doorbell, what’s your first thought? If crime statistics have put you on alert, living alone can disrupt your sense of security, no matter how nice your neighborhood is or how long you’ve been living there.

Financial security.

Close up of woman putting money in a jar

Whether you’re a renter or a homeowner, rising housing costs and taxes can place a significant burden on your fixed-income household, according to a Bipartisan Policy Center study cited by the US Department of Housing.

If you’re nodding your head, you’re not alone. We talk to a lot of older adults who tell us the same things about the cost of living. The latest US census tells us that nearly a third of older adults live alone in America. That equates to about 14 million people who share your concerns.

We know the choices, research, and all the phone calls and visits can feel downright overwhelming, so let’s start with the facts about independent senior living.

What are the benefits of independent living?

Senior couple walking and smiling

Communities offer a long list of goodies. Adults looking for positive, healthy aging in independent living facilities enjoy:

  • Maintenance-free accommodations
  • Housekeeping
  • Transportation
  • Safety and security

Are there different kinds of senior independent housing?

Group of friends walking in the park

Depending on your lifestyle and budget and whether you require extra services, you can buy or rent a home, condominium, townhouse or apartment, along with extra storage space.

As you begin your research on your senior living options, you’ll find three kinds of housing.

55+ communities.

A 55+ community, also known as an active adult community, is a residential neighborhood in which you buy a home designed specifically for adults age 55 and older. These communities typically offer a range of amenities and services tailored to the interests of this age group, such as recreational facilities, fitness centers, golf courses, social clubs and organized activities. The goal is to create an environment for residents who are retired or nearing retirement age. Many 55+ communities also offer maintenance-free living options for residents who prefer to spend their time pursuing hobbies and interests rather than maintaining a large home and yard.

If you buy a home in a 55+ community, you’ll have far less maintenance to do, although you may find the homeowners association fees high, and your options can be limited.

Continuing care retirement communities.

Independent living in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers seniors the opportunity to maintain their independence while also having access to a range of supportive services as they age.

CCRCs often have a tiered system of care that allows residents to move from independent living to assisted living or even skilled nursing care if needed without having to leave the community.

What is dining like in senior independent living?

What is there to do when you live in a retirement community?

Activity Coordinators put together a full schedule of things to do with lots of opportunities to socialize. Calendars fill up with arts, crafts, games, fitness classes, parties, holiday celebrations, outings, workshops, clubs and classes. The list goes on and on.

What services do senior living facilities offer?

Depending on where you live, light housekeeping and laundry services may be available as part of your monthly payments or for an extra fee. Washers and dryers are available in some residences.

Seniors can hop on the transportation bus to local events, appointments and shopping.