What is a Life Plan Community or CCRC?

Explore costs, services & tips for choosing a Life Plan Community or CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) near you.

Choosing the right senior living option can feel overwhelming. For those planning for today, while also being thoughtful about what needs may arise in the future, a Life Plan Community (also called a Continuing Care Retirement Community or CCRC) may be the perfect fit. These communities offer the full spectrum of care. So if you're looking for independent living today, but don't want to move if and when you need assisted living, you're looking at the right place! In this guide, we’ll break down what Life Plan Communities are, what makes them different, how much they cost, and how to decide if one is right for your family.

Key Takeaways

CCRCs offer the full spectrum of care on one campus allowing seniors to move from independent living to assisted to skilled nursing.

CCRCs often require a large entrance fee to be paid prior to move in followed by monthly payments that will vary based on the level of care.

Explore nearly 1,000 CCRC communities on Senior Care Finder!

What is a CCRC?
What is a Life Plan Community?
Qualifications for a CCRC?
Cost of a CCRC?
Services & Amenities included in a CCRC?
Choosing a CCRC?
Conclusion
Helpful Resources

What is a CCRC?

A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers a unique living option for seniors seeking a vibrant lifestyle with the security of future long-term care. Imagine a community where you can enjoy an active, independent life with the peace of mind knowing healthcare services are readily available on-site, should you need them in the future.

A CCRC, sometimes called a Life Plan Community, provides a continuum of care on one campus. Residents typically enter a CCRC at a healthy, independent stage, living in private apartments or cottages. The community offers a wide range of amenities and social activities, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Should a resident's health needs change, they can access assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing care within the same community, eliminating the need to move elsewhere.

What is a Life Plan Community?

A Life Plan Community and CCRC are interchangeable terms! In 2014 LeadingAge (a senior advocacy group) hired a task force called Project NameStorm to examine how seniors viered the term CCRC or Continuing Care Retirement Community. After two years of research, they landed on a new term they felt would be more accepted and more accurately represent what a CCRC was. So in 2016, the term Life Plan Community was introduced. Many communities use CCRC and Life Plan communities interchangeably, but the different terms definitely can cause confusion. So whether you're looking for a CCRC or a Life Plan Community, know you are looking at a community that offers the whole spectrum of care and allows seniors to age in place. For the purposes of this guide, we will refer to this type of senior living community as a CCRC.

When is it Time for a CCRC?

A CCRC can be a good choice for seniors who are interested in an active lifestyle, but interested in planning for future healthcare needs. If you or a loved one resonate with the following options, it may be time to check out CCRCs near you!

Want to live in a vibrant community with social activities and amenities.
Desire the peace of mind knowing future long-term care needs can be met on-site.
Are financially prepared for the entrance fee and ongoing costs associated with CCRCs.

How Much Does a CCRC Cost?

The cost of a CCRC can vary depending on location, size and type of residence, and the level of care required. Typically, there's an upfront entrance fee that averages around $300,000 followed by monthly fees that cover housing, meals, and some healthcare services ranging from $2,500 - $5,000+. Additional fees may apply for higher levels of care, such as assisted living or skilled nursing.

What Services & Amenities Do CCRCs Offer?

CCRCs offer a comprehensive lifestyle package designed to meet your evolving needs. Residents enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere with a wide range of services and amenities, all readily available on-site.

Dining options: Restaurant-style meals, casual dining venues, and meal delivery to residences.
Maintenance: Can include snow removal and lawn maintenance
Social and recreational activities: Clubs, events, fitness facilities, and cultural programs.
Transportation services: Scheduled transportation for errands and appointments.
Healthcare services: On-site medical staff, wellness programs, and access to higher levels of care as needed.
Day spa: Looking for some extra pampering? Some CCRCs offer spas that provide skin treatments, nailcare and massages!
Coffee shops and bars: Expanded food service beyond the traditional meal plan can include on-site coffee shops staffed with baristas or bars staffed with bartenders.
Theaters: Want to see a movie? No need to leave campus!

Choosing a Community

Choosing the right CCRC is an important decision. By carefully considering your needs and options, you can find a CCRC that provides the ideal combination of an active lifestyle and the security of future long-term care. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

Consider your current and future needs. Think about your desired lifestyle now and anticipate potential healthcare needs down the road.
Research and compare CCRCs in your area. Use online resources like SeniorCareFinder to compare amenities, services, and costs.
Schedule tours and ask questions. Visit CCRCs in person to get a feel for the environment and meet with staff members.
Understand the contract and financial requirements. Carefully review the CCRC's contract and discuss the upfront and long-term financial costs.

Conclusion

A Life Plan Community, or CCRC, offers the ideal blend of independence, community, and long-term care planning, making it a smart choice for seniors who want to enjoy today while preparing for tomorrow. With a range of amenities and a full continuum of care on one campus, CCRCs support aging in place without sacrificing comfort or connection. Ready to explore your options? Use Senior Care Finder to compare CCRC communities near you, understand costs and services, and take the next step with confidence.