The decision to explore a Retirement Community Lifestyle is often spurred by the experiences individuals had caring for their own parents. Older generations such as the silent generation (1925-1945), and the greatest generation (1910-1924) are known for grit, hard work, frugality, loyalty, and patriotism. They saved their possessions and valued home ownership. Because of this, many folks in these generations fiercely fought to stay at home as they aged–often to their own detriment.
Often known as the “sandwich generation” many Boomers (born between 1946-1964), have struggled to care for their aging parents while also taking care of their own children, managing their own health, household, and careers. Being a caregiver to an aging parent is no small task and can also take a toll on relationships as disagreements arise about what is best for the older adult. For this reason, many Boomers are embracing Continuing Care Retirement Communities because of the engaged and connected lifestyle they offer to residents, with the comfort and peace of mind knowing that care services are available if, and when, needed. The CCRC becomes the essential support network, allowing family and friends to remain just that–not caregivers.
Boomers don’t just coast along waiting for retirement to happen–they are increasingly proactive about where they want to live, “rightsizing” their possessions, what amenities and services they are looking for, and how their health and wellness needs will be met. Boomers are also more inclined to gratefully hand off chores such as yard work, snow removal, and home maintenance in exchange for doing more meaningful and fun activities.
In response to the growing market, communities are evolving from what they were in the past. Movements such as the Culture Change Initiative spurred physical renovations and improved services in nursing care. Increasing competition and demand in the industry has also spurred the creation of world-class services and campus amenities to attract residents. In fact, there are eighteen non-profit continuing care retirement communities in Lancaster County, placing it among the top three destinations in the nation for senior living. Because of its unique qualities, walkability, restaurants, and access to services, Lancaster City even earned an “Age Friendly Designation” from the AARP and World Health Organization in 2019.
Questions to ask if you’re considering a CCRC: Most searchers visit multiple communities to understand how each community is unique and see if the vibe matches theirs. Housing options can also vary greatly. Some people come on tours with lengthy comparison spreadsheets and lists of questions–which is great! Here are some other topics folks often forget to ask about:
What support services are in place for residential "independent" living? Some communities offer a continuum of care, but do not provide much in the way of support for their residential living. Even though no one ever thinks an emergency will happen to them–having care resources available is an important feature because inevitably, things happen. A good example of supported residential living is the program at Homestead Village, where as part of your monthly service fee, residents have access to a full-time nurse, social worker, chaplain, emergency call system, daily check in system, variety of transportation services including complimentary car service to all medical appointments within 5 miles, life enrichment, wellness opportunities, and more! Apartments are also dual-licensed for personal care, so residents can have services bought to them without having to make an additional move.
What leadership structure does the community have? Do residents have a voice in the operations of the community? Do residents have the ability to serve on the Board of Directors? Does the leadership value continued improvement by committing to accreditation from organizations such as CARF?
Is the community non-profit? Being a non-profit community means that the mindset of the organization is geared towards improving care and services to benefit the residents, rather than earning shareholder profits. Benevolent care is also typically offered to residents in financial hardship.
What contract type does the community offer? There are typically four contract types offered at Lancaster County’s non-profit CCRC’s: Life Care, Modified Fee for Service, Fee for Service, and Rental. Each of these contract types incorporates varying levels of healthcare, and varying levels of entrance fee requirements. Counselors at each community will happily discuss contract types, fees, and financial requirements for residency.
What happens if my care needs change? Some communities provide support in their residential cottages, villas, and apartments, while others require a move through their continuum of care. For example, Homestead Village’s apartments are all dual-licensed for personal care so that if someone is living in an apartment and need some daily support–they don’t have to move to a separate personal care area. This is also great for couples because they can remain together even if there are differing care needs.
We often hear new residents saying “wow, I should have done this so much sooner!” So, if you’re exploring the next chapter of your life, be sure to see why so many Boomers are turning to CCRC’s for an engaged and supportive lifestyle.
