The Complete Guide to Continuing Care Retirement Communities

What Is a Continuing Care Retirement Community?

A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), also known as a life-plan community, is a campus-style senior living option that offers the full continuum of care in one location: independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Residents typically move in while they are still active and independent, with the assurance that higher levels of care are available on the same campus if their needs change.

How CCRCs Are Structured

• Independent living — apartments, cottages, or villas with full access to community amenities.
• Assisted living — personal-care support for residents who need help with daily activities.
• Memory care — secured, specialised programming for those with cognitive impairments.
• Skilled nursing — 24-hour medical care and rehabilitation for residents with complex health needs.

The defining feature of a CCRC is the contract that guarantees access to this continuum.

Who Is a CCRC Best For?

CCRCs are best suited for proactive planners — seniors (often couples) who want to make one move and know they are covered for life.

Understanding the Contract Types

• Type A (Life Care) — the most comprehensive. Higher entrance fee includes unlimited access to higher-level care.
• Type B (Modified) — moderate entrance fee covers a set number of days in higher-level care at a discounted rate.
• Type C (Fee-for-Service) — lowest entrance fee, but market rates for any care beyond independent living.

Understanding the Costs

Entrance fees typically range from $100,000 to over $500,000. Monthly fees range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more. Some communities offer refundable entrance-fee options. Always review the community's audited financial statements and consult an elder-law attorney.

Questions to Ask During a Tour

1. What contract types do you offer, and what does each include?
2. Can I see the community's most recent audited financial statements?
3. What is the entrance-fee refund policy?
4. How are monthly-fee increases determined?
5. What criteria trigger a move from independent living to a higher level of care?
6. What happens if a resident exhausts their financial resources?

Next Steps

If the idea of one move for life appeals to you, start your research early — many CCRCs have waitlists. Visit several communities, compare contract types carefully, and always involve a financial advisor.