Moving into a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) is an important decision. CCRC’s vary widely, each offering different features and price tags. Additionally, when choosing a continuing care community, consideration should be made with your long-term health in mind. For example, will your CCRC be able to look after you as you move from independent living into assisted living and on to full-service skilled nursing? At Wesley Enhanced Living, we understand that growing older means your stages of life shift over time and have the ability to carry you through each stage of retirement. Keep These Considerations in Mind When Choosing Your CCRC
  1. Start with a list of CCRC’s: Look for an accredited CCRC or search for reviews of facilities. You can start by contacting the Area Agency on Aging where you would like to live. Also, you can utilize the internet for your search.
  2. Make some phone calls: After you have gathered your list, call each facility and ask if they have any vacancies, how much their fees are, and what services they provide.
  3. Set up a tour:  A physical visit can offer you a much better picture of what you can expect, and many CCRCs are happy to have you stay overnight. Pay close attention as you tour the facility. Consider the upkeep and cleanliness of the establishment. Talk to current residents. Ask to see the assisted living and nursing facilities. Ask how decisions to move you to a new level of care are made.
  4. Take a very close look at fees: When you visit, try to get as much information as possible about the various contract terms and costs with the communities you are considering. Find out the different types of services offered and how much they cost. Ask about any price increases you can expect. Inquire whether any portion of your entry fee is refundable should you leave the CCRC.
  5. Look into the community’s financial well-being: Take the time to find out who owns and operates the CCRC. Review their most recently audited financial statement and a copy of the community’s contract with your attorney or financial advisor. Ask about their occupancy rate. While new facilities will still be filling up, established facilities with occupancy rates lower than 85 percent may indicate problems.
Where you live through your golden years should not be left to chance. Research what continuing care retirement communities offer in the area you want to live as a senior. Ask questions and seek the advice of your attorney or financial advisor. Visit a Wesley Enhanced Living community and see why so many seniors love to call our CCRCs home. Our Sales Managers are happy to answer your questions and give you a tour. Wesley Enhanced Living provides a high-quality lifestyle where comfort, care, safety and health are top priority for residents. Please visit our continuing care retirement communities to learn more or click here to request more information today.