Choosing a Continuing Care Retirement Community

Would you know what to look for if you were considering the move to a senior living community?

Among all your senior living options, there’s a type of community perfect for long-term planners. It combines lifestyle, amenities that make life more fulfilling and convenient, and access to higher-level health services. These are known as CCRCs, or Continuing Care Retirement Communities.

Whether you’re a couple or single, just turned 55, or are about to celebrate your 90th, a CCRC like The Overlook offers everything you need for a wonderful retirement, all in one place.

Keep reading to learn about the most important questions to ask when choosing a Continuing Care Retirement Community. What is a CCRC?

Continuing Care Retirement Communities provides access to services both now and throughout your life. With a variety of residences, plus amenities like fine dining, scheduled entertainment and fitness centers, CCRCs provide a comfortable and relaxed environment.

As the name implies, in addition to providing an independent lifestyle, CCRCs offer a full continuum of care. Imagine the confidence you’ll have today knowing that if you ever need it, care is available on site. In addition to independent living, the best communities offer care services in assisted living and skilled nursing. At The Overlook, there’s an even wider option of services for all needs, including:

• Enhanced Living services
• Skilled Nursing
• Short-term Rehab
• Memory Care
• Hospice and Palliative Care

Questions to Ask When Choosing a CCRC

If you have a friend or family member who currently lives in a CCRC, ask them what they like and what they would change about their community.

In the meantime, here are some suggestions for getting the information you need to make an informed choice:

• Talk with a community sales counselor. Never hesitate to schedule an appointment, either on the phone or in person. Allow enough time to ask all your questions.
• Take a community tour. Communities should be eager to show you everything they have to offer.
• Attend a community event. Some events are informative, some are social. Both types are illuminating. Choose an event from the community calendar that interests you, and attend to get a firsthand glimpse into the lifestyle.

During your research, financial aspects are bound to rise to the top of your must-know list. Use the following questions to find out how well suited a community is to your needs.

• What type of contract do you offer?
  CCRCs offer residency contracts in three forms: Type A, Type B and Type C. Each has its own benefits and built-in value. However, you’ll likely not find all three contract types at every CCRC. The Overlook, for example, provides flexibility with multiple contract options so you can find the ideal fit for your retirement plan.

• What does it cost to live here?
  A good sales counselor will answer your questions candidly, but there are some variables to cost. It will depend on whether you’re single or a couple, which floor plan you choose, and how many meals you’d like to eat on campus, among other details.

• What’s your entrance fee and what does it include?
  A one-time entrance fee is part of moving to a CCRC. But what exactly does that fee cover? In general, entrance fees ensure your access to higher levels of care, should you ever need them.

• What’s included in your monthly service fee?
  As part of your contract with a CCRC, your monthly fee provides you with the residence of your choice, your meal plan, and access to all the services, amenities and events the community offers. This includes bi-weekly housekeeping and utilities in addition to a lovely spot on the hill.
• What services are available on site?
  Social, cultural and recreational activities are available in abundance at CCRCs. At The Overlook, you can join the Brew Crew beer brewing club, cultivate your green thumb in the community garden, paint, sing, and even learn woodwork in the shop. Whatever your passion, you can go for it!Furthermore, there are physical health services, such as wellness programs, and often opportunities for lifelong learning and/or mentorship. And while you might not need them now, remember that on-site health services and a full continuum of care are what make a CCRC such a smart senior living plan.

The Overlook: Your Future Looks Great from Here.

The Overlook provides Independent Living and a full continuum of care, including Enhanced Living and Assisted Living. Contact us today to book a tour!