Life at a Continuing Care Retirement Community
Continuing care retirement communities (CCRC) provide seniors with the resources they need so they can live a carefree lifestyle in a comfortable home setting that they’ll make their very own. Residents of a CCRC have access to a wide range of care services, luxurious amenities and fine dining, health and wellness resources, and recreational common areas and activities.
While healthcare at an arm’s length is one of the main benefits of moving to a CCRC, you surely have many questions about how that works and what else you need to consider. We’ve answered 3 common questions below.
1: What types of services are offered?
Many CCRCs offer health plans that span all your stages of retirement. This includes independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The goal of most CCRCs is to provide a continuum of care, meaning you’ll remain in one place while having access to varying forms of health care as your health needs change over time. This approach allows you to feel more at home, comfortable and settled in your own space, knowing your needs will be taken care of in the future.
But senior living is about more than just healthcare. You want to make the most of your days now that you’ve put the hours and hard work in over the course of your lifetime. CCRCs offer plenty of programs and activities that maybe you haven’t had time for in the past few years–whether that’s picking up an old hobby or starting a new exercise routine.
And if you’re tired of cooking dinner every night, you can take advantage of prepared cuisine in one of the many dining options at your fingertips.
2: What will my home be like?
Senior living communities typically offer a luxurious experience with an upscale feel for all residents to enjoy. Independent living areas range from apartments, to condominiums, to large single homes. So while you’re immersed in a community full of excitement and opportunity, you’ll always have the privacy of your own home.
At Searstone, you’ll be able to choose from spacious, open floor plans with full-sized appliances, and regular housekeeping and linen services so you’ll always have a tidy home without having to lift a finger.
3: When should I start thinking about moving to a CCRC?
It’s never too early to start thinking about your retirement plans. In fact, many CCRC residents wish they had moved into their senior living community sooner. You’ll also have to consider the fact that many other seniors are looking to move into a community as well, and space is limited. Even if you don’t see yourself moving for another few years, there are small ways you can prepare for the future.
Learn as much as possible about different communities.
Start by researching what different communities have to offer and what services will best fit your needs. CCRCs have different types of models, living arrangements, and offer varying types of care. Get a good understanding of what benefits each of them offer. From there, you’ll be able to select the communities that are best for you based on what your needs are, and what type of lifestyle you’re hoping to live. Put all non-negotiables, and then wants and extras on a list, then match them to the services of specific communities. This will help you narrow down a CCRC that’s right for you.
Think about your financials.
Senior living communities often require an entrance fee as well as a monthly fee. Start keeping track of your expenses — both small and seemingly insignificant, to the large costs in the event that a new appliance is needed, or even yearly maintenance. When you are aware of how much you’re spending on a daily to yearly basis, you’ll have a better idea of your budget for living in a CCRC.
Consider downsizing.
In the years before moving to a CCRC, many people find it beneficial to slowly begin getting rid of unwanted items. If you’re not in the position to do so right now, a good rule of thumb many also abide by is to not make any unnecessary purchases. This will make the moving process go a lot more smoothly, and will also keep your new home organized and clutter free.
Coming Soon to Searstone
Searstone will be opening its four-story expansion in 2024 — a plan to offer a next-level retirement living opportunity for those who have the foresight to envision a future in a beautifully designed modern home in the heart of Cary, North Carolina. All of the health accommodations available to Searstone residents will also be available at The Highview.
Learn more about Searstone and The Highview to find out if it’s the right move for you. Feel free to reach out to us if you have more questions that we can help answer for you!