Ensuring Independence with Comprehensive Care

Have you ever heard the acronym CCRC and wondered what people were talking about? CCRC stands for continuing care retirement community and provides older adults a community to live in one location for as long as they need. This provides families and residents with peace of mind, knowing that they will have the support they require, no matter their ongoing needs. As their health changes, residents don’t have to worry about what living arrangements because the community can provides them with what’s necessary. That’s the CCRC advantage – your needs are met when you need them, so you can focus on the lifestyle you want!

According to a study by the Mathers Institute and Northwestern University, 91% of CCRC residents are satisfied or very satisfied with their living arrangements.

The design of CCRCs allows older adults to move from independent living to assisted living, memory support, or skilled nursing if they need more help with daily tasks and medical needs. The CCRC advantage is that residents can be supported in all levels of care throughout their lives. If a resident requires more assistance than what is available in their current living accommodations, their residence can change and they can move into a higher level of care.

Staying Independent Longer

CCRCs are the only option of care that provide all care levels under one roof. While many older adults purchase a home with the idea of staying independent, CCRCs have the resources that allow you to stay independent longer.

Independent Living

Independent living is ideal for those who still live on their own but want to take advantage of a maintenance-free lifestyle. CCRCs help with not worrying about issues like plumbing or mowing the lawn. With a range of choices, including villa homes and apartments, there’s something for everyone!

Assisted Living

Assisted living is a great option for those who can live on their own but need help with some of their activities of daily living – like remembering to take medication, getting dressed, and bathing. While you live in a private apartment, the community takes care of cooking, cleaning, and laundry, so you can spend your time doing the things you enjoy.

Memory Care

Seniors experiencing memory loss as a result of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other cognitive disabilities may choose to move to the memory care neighborhood. Residents are cared for by specially trained staff who prioritize comfort, engagement, and safety.

Skilled Nursing Care

Skilled nursing care, also referred to as a Healthcare Center, offers both long-term care and short-term rehabilitation. They are designed for those who need 24/7 nursing care. Residents requiring post-surgical wound treatment, physical or speech therapy following a stroke, or IV medication administration might stay in one of these facilities.

Questions to Ask

As you begin visiting communities, consider asking the following questions about the CCRC advantage. Be sure to include your loved ones in the process if possible.

1. Is the CCRC for-profit or not-for-profit? What’s the financial strength of the community?
2. What’s included in the monthly fee?
3. How do you help your residents to maintain their freedom and independence?
4. What kind of emergency response systems does your community have?
5. How do you measure your residents’ satisfaction? Can I see your last two surveys?
6. How can residents offer input and feedback?
7. What is the difference between independent and assisted living? What does each include?
8. Can a resident remain in independent living when their needs change? How is aging in place supported?
9. What are the five most popular programs in your community? Who decides what programs and events are scheduled?
10. Can a prospective resident review the residency agreement/handbook?

The CCRC Advantage and Benefits

In addition to providing healthcare services and a built-in community, CCRCs offer residents a stress-free lifestyle. Upon moving in, you will immediately feel the benefits.

• Independence. Having your own apartment or suite gives you autonomy. It respects your personal space, while providing a sense of comfort and security.
• Programming. Most CCRCs offer full calendars to keep residents engaged. There is something for everyone – think book clubs, guest speakers, games, happy hours, outings, crafts, and much more.
• Exercise. Communities offer a range of exercises based on ability and interest. Maintaining strength, flexibility and cardiovascular health becomes extremely important as we age.
• Dining. It’s a treat to take a break from cooking every night. CCRCs offer dining rooms and meals served three times daily, depending on the care level you live in. Plus you can enjoy your dinner with friends!
• Community. Your apartment is your home, but just outside your front door there’s companionship and friendship.
• Extra free time. Maintaining a home takes time! The time you spent mowing the lawn or shoveling snow can now be spent enjoying exciting hobbies and making new friends.
• Peace of mind. When living at a CCRC, all the care you need is in one building. You will never have to worry about your future when you live at a CCRC.

Making the Most Out of Retirement

CCRCs help you make the most out of your retirement. Not only will you have care options in the same location, but you also have the freedom to spend your time how you choose. When you choose to move to a CCRC, the level of care adjusts as your needs do. You will receive the support you need to live your best life without needing to move to a different community, giving you and your family peace of mind.

Are you ready to find out more about the CCRC advantage? If you or a loved one is interested in a continuing care retirement community, consider taking a tour of one of The Ohio Masonic Communities campuses. With two senior living communities across the state of Ohio – Browning Masonic Community in Waterville, Ohio, Springfield Masonic Community in Springfield, Ohio, and Western Reserve Masonic Community in Medina, Ohio – each offers premier living options with exceptional experiences so residents can live their best lives. If you are interested in learning more about one of our communities, give us a call at 1-877-881-1623. We will be happy to answer all your questions and be a trusted resource in the search for the right community for you!