10 Tips for Evaluating CCRCs
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Offering tremendous value, an exceptional lifestyle and incomparable peace of mind for the future, it’s no wonder CCRCs are often considered the ideal senior living choice. In fact, national studies have proven that living at a CCRC can help you live a longer, healthier life. When you’ve found the right senior living community, you’ll discover it’s a place that makes it easier for you to keep learning, growing and enjoying life today, while also protecting your future with a smart plan for whatever tomorrow may bring.
CCRC offerings and costs can vary widely. To receive the most benefi t, look for a CCRC that offers the services, amenities, lifestyle and residence options that appeal to your personal interests. as you consider independent senior living options, here are some tips to help you make the choice that’s right for you.
- Ask friends or relatives to join you in the process of looking at communities.
- Make a list of the things that are most important to your happiness, well-being and lifestyle — such as location, dining, fitness programs, activities, access to healthcare, or whether the community accepts pets.
- Examine the friendliness and responsiveness of the sales counselors. This is a good indicator of the service you can expect as a resident.
- Ask for a referral from a future or current resident, to get their perspective on why they chose the community.
- Compare all costs to fi nd out what is included and what is not, such as dining, utilities, real estate taxes, maintenance and housekeeping. Ask what types of contracts and financial options are offered, and whether a portion of your Entrance Deposit is refundable to you or your estate if you leave the community.
- Learn about the community’s ownership, sponsorship and management. Make sure they have a strong history of
service and a good reputation.
- Find out about the dining experience, how many daily meals are included and what food selections will be offered. If you have dietary restrictions, ask about healthy options. You might also ask to dine at the community, to experience the dining firsthand.
- Your private residence should feel like home and reflect your personal tastes. Make a list of the features you desire in your new home — such as a den or patio, finishes such as stainless steel appliances or wood flooring, or garage or underground parking — and consider which community can meet all or most of your requests.
- Ask about security and the emergency systems in place.
- Plan ahead. Be sure to ask about the community’s healthcare options, in case you ever need such care, and whether you must pay for these services upfront or only if needed. Waiting until something happens could necessitate a hasty and uninformed decision. With a solid plan in place, you’ll enjoy today knowing you have a plan for whatever life may bring.
These tips are courtesy of The Willows at Worcester, a brand-new community now open that offers people age 55 and better spacious residences and a vibrant, independent lifestyle. The Willows features a state-of-the-art fitness center, chef-prepared meals in two on-site restaurants, maintenance-free living, and boundless social and recreational opportunities — all within a neighborhood of support and companionship — for a fulfilling and engaging lifestyle.
Schedule a personal appointment at our Information Center to learn more about The Willows. Or, download your personal copy of 10 Tips for Evaluating CCRCs to make sure you have all the facts to make the best choice for you.