Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is an increasingly popular living alternative for retirees. CCRC offers a tiered approach to the aging process, enabling residents to move from independent living to assisted living or nursing care, all within a single community.
During your senior years, you may want to settle into comfortable, home-like surroundings where your care needs increase as your care requirements increase. This will ease the stress on family members who may have taken on caregiver responsibilities and provide them with a significant level of peace of mind.
When is the best time to move? There is no perfect answer to this question because everyone’s situation is different. Deciding whether you should move to a continuing care retirement community is a significant life change. Here are some factors to help you decide when a continuing care community living is necessary.
You want stability
If you want to minimize the number of times you have to move as you grow older, a continuing care facility is an ideal solution. Since a CCRC offers independent living housing, assisted living housing and a skilled nursing facility all at the same location, it less likely that you will have to move every time you need to change your level of care. You may need to move to a different apartment, but you will still be in the same familiar environment.
You want to enjoy a quality life
CCRCs are a great option if you want to move into a community while you are still healthy. Everyone’s situation is unique, but it’s always good to make a move before your health deteriorates. Delaying the decision could mean missing the opportunity, as the ability to live independently is a standard entry requirement among most CCRCs. When you are able-bodied and in good health, you are in a better position to handle the transition as well as enjoy the many benefits of these dynamic communities. Those who are not in good health and are forced to move due to health concerns often suffer from relocation stress syndrome (RSS) as moving to an unfamiliar environment is more physically, emotionally, and psychologically challenging for them.
You prefer a social and active community environment
Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed by home maintenance needs and would prefer being in an environment that provides independent, active, maintenance-free lifestyles. CCRCs can be an ideal choice that gives you time to focus on life enrichment activities and other things that really matter while having an opportunity to forge friendships with people of your age. With a vast array of amenities including exercise facilities, activity rooms, libraries, pools and spas, tennis, golf, beauty shops, gardens, etc., residents have endless opportunities to lead an active, safe and engaging life with the peace of mind that there is a plan in place as you age.
You want to be proactive in addressing your future healthcare needs
A healthy routine is a key component to successful aging. If you or a loved one is showing early signs of mild health decline, moving to a continuing care facility can provide you with comprehensive health and wellness programs that help you stay healthy and live independently as long as possible. You have access to fitness centers and health programs on-site designed specifically for seniors.
Social isolation and issues of helplessness
Are you having concerns regarding you or a loved ones ability to drive or use public transportation? Maybe your dad has fallen a few times, and there was no one around to help, or your mom is showing signs of loneliness. If there isn’t a reliable support system of friends, neighbors, and family nearby to help out or be available during emergencies, you may want to consider moving to a continuing care retirement community.
Financial obligation
Does it make financial sense. If you are spending a lot on your current living conditions (home upkeep and maintenance), then it may be better checking into community living. Be sure to do your research to find one that meets your care needs and budget.
It is never too early to start the conversation about moving into a continuing care community.