What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)?
For many older adults, maintaining their independence is a top priority, but what they may not realize is choosing a Continuing Care Retirement Community is one of the best ways to remain independent as they age.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC), sometimes referred to as life plan communities, are designed to give people agency over their living environment and support their independence as much as possible at every stage of life. For example, Someren Glen offers peace of mind that comprehensive care options are always available from independent living apartments to assisted living, and long-term skilled nursing or short-term rehabilitation. Residents receive priority for higher levels of care if they need it at any time and enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle with a full array of amenities and activities.
By choosing a continuing care retirement community, you’re not relinquishing independence but preserving it. It’s a bold declaration of independence and foresight that reflects a commitment to taking control of your future and ensuring that your preferences and needs are met at every stage of life. You’re not just planning for the “what ifs” of aging—you’re actively shaping the life you want to lead, on your own terms. This proactive approach offers you control of your living arrangements, healthcare, and daily activities, no matter what the future holds. You’re choosing a lifestyle that offers flexibility, security, and the freedom to focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones, pursuing passions, and living life to its fullest.
Understanding the CCRC Model
A continuing care retirement community offers the freedom to enjoy a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle while having access to increasing levels of care if needed. This eliminates the burden of making last-minute decisions during health crises, empowering you to focus on living a full life. You’ll enjoy the security of knowing you’ve already chosen a place that aligns with your values and priorities, where your voice matters and your choices are respected. Meals, transportation, home maintenance, housekeeping, laundry, security, and utilities are usually included which takes the worry and work out of living and allows you to enjoy your retirement.
CCRCs typically offer several levels of care on one campus, including:
- Independent Living: Designed for active seniors who desire a low-maintenance lifestyle while enjoying amenities, social opportunities, and the privacy of their own home or apartment.
- Assisted Living: Provides support with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management while maintaining a focus on independence.
- Skilled Nursing and Memory Care: Offer higher levels of medical or specialized care when needed.
This continuum of care allows residents to remain within the same community, surrounded by familiar faces and routines, even if their health or care needs change over time. It’s also an ideal solution for couples. In the event that either one has a change in health status, both can be cared for without leaving the comforts of the community.
Making Time to Enjoy Life
A continuing care community provides the opportunity to embrace an active, hassle-free lifestyle, with the benefit of access to higher levels of care as your needs evolve.
- Low-Maintenance Living: Say goodbye to household chores, lawn care, and home repairs. With these responsibilities managed for you, there’s more time to pursue hobbies, socialize, or simply relax.
- Diverse Amenities: From fitness centers and community gardens to woodshops and walking trails, CCRCs provide a wealth of opportunities to stay active and engaged.
- Choice and Flexibility: Whether it’s dining options, daily activities, or the ability to transition between levels of care, CCRCs empower residents to make decisions that suit their preferences and needs.
Enhancing Well-Being and Purpose
A sense of purpose and well-being is vital to a fulfilling retirement, and CCRCs are uniquely equipped to foster both. In fact, 69% of residents reported that moving to a Life Plan Community or Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) “somewhat or greatly improved” their social wellness in Year 1.
- Holistic Wellness: Many CCRCs offer programs that support physical, emotional, and mental health, including fitness classes, meditation sessions, and educational workshops. At Someren Glen, we offer the unique Rhythms Life Enrichment Program with a full calendar of activities and programs.
- Community Connections: Social engagement is a cornerstone of life in a CCRC. Regular events, clubs, and shared spaces create countless opportunities to form meaningful relationships.
- Lifelong Learning: Access to educational programs, guest speakers, and cultural events encourages intellectual growth and personal development.
The Benefits of Choosing a CCRC
While there are many benefits of choosing a continuing care retirement community, few are more important than your safety and security. Add to that the knowledge that you have made your own choices and taken control of your own journey.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that care options are available if your health needs change brings confidence and reduces stress.
- A Sense of Security: With safety measures and 24/7 support in place, CCRCs provide a secure environment for all residents. Most communities have personal alert devices to ensure that support can be provided if it’s needed.
- A Vibrant Lifestyle: CCRCs offer a wide range of activities, services, and amenities, CCRCs make it easy to stay active, engaged, and connected.
Why Choose Someren Glen
At Someren Glen, we believe that retirement should be a time to thrive. Our CCRC is designed to help residents live their best lives by promoting independence, nurturing a sense of purpose, and providing the support needed to enjoy every moment. Whether you’re exploring new hobbies, connecting with friends, or simply relishing a maintenance-free lifestyle, Someren Glen is here to help you make the most of this exciting chapter. Unlike many CCRCs, Someren Glen offers a monthly rental plan with no upfront entrance fee.
If you’re ready to learn more about how Someren Glen can enhance your independence and well-being, contact us today to schedule a tour or speak with one of our friendly team members. Let us show you how a Continuing Care Retirement Community can help you embrace life to the fullest.
