Choosing a Retirement Community
Making the choice to move to a retirement community takes research and thought, and selecting the right community is key to making the most of your retirement. By definition, a life plan community (formerly known as a continuing care retirement community, or CCRC) provides a full spectrum of living options from independent living to skilled nursing, often with assisted living as well. However, not all life plan communities are created equally, and it is important to find one that best suits your retirement aspirations.
You want a community that encourages you to embrace your ideal retirement lifestyle. One that allows you to stay in control of your hard-earned nest egg by providing a secure plan for any potential health care needs. An community that will be there for you today and in the future.
When you’ve found the right community, you’ll discover it’s a place that makes it easier for you to keep learning, growing and enjoying life today, while also protecting your future with a smart plan for whatever tomorrow may bring.
Community options and costs can vary widely. To receive the most benefit, look for a community that offers the services, amenities, lifestyle and residence options that most appeal to your personal interests. As you consider senior living communities, here are ten tips to help make the choice that’s right for you.
- Ask friends or relatives to join you in the process
- Make a list of things that are most important to your happiness, well-being and lifestyle
- Pay attention to the friendliness and responsiveness of the staff you meet
- Ask for a referral from a current resident to get their perspective on why they chose the community
- Compare all costs to see what’s included and what’s not
- Learn about the community’s ownership, sponsorship and management
- Find out about the dining experience and ask to dine at the community
- Make a list of the features you desire in your new home and consider which community can meet all or most of your requests
- Ask about security and emergency call systems
- Plan ahead – be sure to ask about the community’s health care options
