Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC)

What is a CCRC (continuing care retirement community)?

A Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC, is a senior living option that offers different levels of living and care in one location. Some providers will also refer to CCRCs as Life Plan Communities.

While CCRCs have a reputation for being more expensive, many families choose a CCRC model because it offers peace of mind and a clear plan for future care needs. Residents often move into a CCRC while living independently. CCRCs provide a "continuum of care" as needs change over time. At most CCRCs, residents can make a seamless transition to a higher level of care without leaving the same community.

Levels of living and care may include:

Independent living: A lower-maintenance lifestyle for active older adults
Assisted living: Help with everyday activities and routines
Memory care: Specialized support for people living with dementia
Skilled nursing care: Medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing nursing support

The biggest difference between a CCRC and any other type of senior living community lies in the financial model. CCRCs have a buy-in model that usually requires a major upfront entrance fee alongside a monthly maintenance charge. In exchange for those fees, families have access to a secure home and guaranteed lifelong care on one campus.

When might a CCRC be the right choice?

A CCRC may be worth considering when someone wants an active, independent lifestyle today and the option to access more support later. In general, these communities appeal to people who currently have an active, independent lifestyle but want to secure future support for when they may need it.

Signs a CCRC may be a good fit

Planning ahead for future care needs is a priority
Home maintenance feels more like a burden than a benefit
A social lifestyle is important
Moving again if care needs change would be difficult
Flexibility is appealing, in case a partner's care needs change over time

How much does a CCRC cost?

CCRC costs vary based on location, residence type, available services, level of care, and contract structure. Payment models differ, and many communities charge an entrance fee as well as an ongoing monthly fee.

Factors that affect cost

Location
Residence size and type
Contract option
Included services
Community amenities
Level of care needed

What is typically included?

Services vary by community and contract, but a CCRC may include:

Housing and utilities
Home or grounds maintenance
Dining options
Housekeeping
Scheduled transportation
Social and educational programs
Fitness and wellness activities
Access to additional levels of care

Calculate cost of care near you

Compare senior care options

Care types differ on how much support they provide. Getting an understanding of each can help you decide which one is best for your health needs and budget.

Care option

How it differs from CCRCs

Independent living: How it differs from CCRCs

While it provides a lower-maintenance community lifestyle for older adults who can manage personal care, like a CCRC does, a standalone independent living community may not offer assisted living or skilled nursing as other options at the same location.

Assisted living: How it differs from CCRCs

Provides housing and help with everyday activities. Unlike a CCRC, an assisted living community may not include independent living and skilled nursing within the same community.

Memory care: How it differs from CCRCs

Provides specialized support and a safety-focused environment for people living with dementia. Some CCRCs include memory care as part of their continuum, while standalone memory care focuses specifically on dementia support.

Nursing homes: How it differs from CCRCs

Provide more extensive medical monitoring, rehabilitation, and care from licensed health professionals. A CCRC may offer skilled nursing as one level within a broader senior living community.

Helpful resources for families

Choosing a CCRC can bring up questions about lifestyle, future care, costs, contracts, and moving. These resources can help families compare options, prepare for community tours, and start planning together.

Explore resources

FAQs

Are there age requirements for a CCRC?

In most cases, CCRCs require residents to be a minimum of 55 years old, which is the age limit noted in the Fair Housing Act. However, it’s possible for certain communities to have even more stringent age requirements for residents, so it’s always important to check.

Will I own my own home at a CCRC?

Whether you purchase or rent your residence will vary depending on the specific CCRC you choose. Some communities do allow you to actually purchase your residence in the community while others may offer you the ability to have equity in the residence you choose. If you are renting, remember that the monthly payment you pay not only covers the amount of your rent, but fees for services, amenities, and maintenance. Before making your move, check carefully to determine whether you will own your new home outright, have equity in it, or simply be renting the residence.

Who determines when it’s time to transition to another level of care?

This can vary based upon a CCRC’s policies and the contract you’ve signed. However, the decision to transition to another level of caregiving is usually a joint decision made with the help of family members and a team of professionals, which may include a social worker, nurse, and physician. If you’re not satisfied with the decision, an appeal process is usually available to make sure you get the best care for your needs.

Will I need a car while living in a CCRC?

Many CCRCs provide ample room for you to bring along your own vehicle, although this is a question you’ll want to ask before you choose a community. Even if you don’t have a vehicle, many communities will provide transportation to residents and public transportation may also be an option. Check with the communities you’re considering to see if they provide transportation and if you’ll be required to pay an extra fee for this service. You may also want to ask about parking arrangements if you want to bring your vehicle to the community.

Are pets allowed in a CCRC?

Pets can be very therapeutic for seniors, and many CCRCs are happy to welcome them into the community. However, some communities may have restrictions on pet size, breed, and type, so ask about their policy if you want to bring your pet along with you. You may be required to pay additional deposits or fees, as well.

Find continuing care retirement communities