Sometimes referred to as life-care communities, continuing care retirement communities or CCRCs, are communities for seniors that usually have three levels of residence: active retirement/independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing. The benefit of a CCRC is that it offers a wider spectrum of care, so that once a senior moves into the community, he or she will be able to receive appropriate care as his or her needs change.

The living arrangements of each (active, assisted, and nursing) are designed to accommodate the needs of the resident appropriately, with a variety of safeguards and preventive measures in place. The appeal, of course, is that little transition will have to be made during a progression from stage to stage throughout their lives.

How to Choose a CCRC

With an entrance fee, the cost of purchasing a unit, and a monthly payment, a CCRC can be quite expensive. Costs are estimated to run from $20,000 well into the six-figure range, not including the monthly payment which is anywhere from the hundreds to the thousands. Choosing the right CCRC for your loved one is determined by the kind of contract you wish to enter into—extensive, modified, or service-based fee contract.

To learn more about finding the right CCRC, please read Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Explained: What They Are, What to Expect, How to Pay For One & How to Find One. Select a state from the list below or begin searching for a quality CCRC for your loved one now.