Prospective residents considering continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also known as life plan communities, face an important decision. Selecting a community affects long-term quality of life, finances, and healthcare, so it’s essential to be well informed. Asking the right questions helps ensure you choose a CCRC that fits your needs and expectations.
5 key questions
There are many potential questions to ask when evaluating CCRCs—far too many to cover in a single visit. At myLifeSite we provide extensive community profiles and resources, and we plan to publish a comprehensive CCRC questionnaire later this year. In the meantime, here are five crucial questions to ask community representatives as you tour prospective CCRCs. These will help you assess what matters most: services, costs, care quality, and financial stability.
-
Which services are included in the CCRC’s monthly fee, today and tomorrow?
CCRC contracts differ, and the services covered by the monthly fee vary depending on the contract type. Some contracts include most care services, while others charge extra for assisted living, rehabilitation, or nursing care. Even within healthcare services, features such as a private versus semi-private nursing room can change costs. Ask for a clear explanation of which services are included now and which could trigger additional charges in the future.
Also ask how fees are handled when a couple shares a residence and one partner needs a higher level of care—temporary or permanent. Will the monthly fee increase, decrease, or change structure? Understanding these scenarios up front prevents unpleasant surprises later.
>> Related: Who Decides if a CCRC Resident Needs a Higher Level of Care?
-
Will the monthly fees increase over time?
Fee increases are common in the CCRC industry; annual raises of 3–4 percent are typical, though they vary. Healthcare costs often rise faster than general inflation, and those increases affect resident fees. Ask the community for their historical fee increase data—ideally the past five years—to help you forecast future changes. Communities should be willing to share their financial trends so you can plan your budget with greater confidence.
>> Related: The Cost of a CCRC vs. the Value to Residents
-
What happens if a resident runs out of money?
Many CCRCs, especially not-for-profit providers, state they will not evict residents who deplete their assets. However, contract wording on this point can be vague. Ask the community to explain how they support residents who exhaust their funds and whether that promise is explicit in the contract or an informal policy. Request details on how such commitments are funded and whether the community has a formal program or relies on discretionary funds.
>> Related: For-Profit or Not-for-Profit CCRCs — What’s the Difference?
-
How can I be assured I will receive the best care possible if and when I need it?
A major reason people move to CCRCs is to access a full continuum of care, typically provided on-site. Given the financial and emotional commitment involved, it’s reasonable to expect high-quality care. Tour the community’s healthcare center when possible so you can see staff, facilities, and the overall environment firsthand. Modern nursing and care centers have changed significantly over the past 10 to 20 years, and a visit can give you a realistic sense of standards and culture.
Other ways to evaluate care quality include checking Medicare certification and CMS ratings if applicable, and contacting the local long-term care ombudsman to learn whether the community has had complaints. Ask about staffing ratios, staff training, and how the community manages transitions between levels of care.
>> Related: How to Know If a CCRC’s Healthcare Center Will Meet Expectations
-
How do I know my money will be safe with your community?
Financial security is a top concern for CCRC prospects. You are making a significant investment, and you should expect transparency about the community’s financial health. A financially stable community should provide both qualitative information—such as an experienced leadership team and solid governance—and quantitative evidence, like audited financial statements and favorable financial ratios.
Ask whether the community operates with sufficient reserves and whether they are meeting actuarial or regulatory obligations set aside for long-term care commitments. If a community hesitates to share financial information or cannot demonstrate sustained fiscal responsibility, consider that a red flag.
>> Related: Evaluate the Financial Viability of a CCRC With Our Free Guide
An informed CCRC decision
Choosing a CCRC is a major life decision that affects health, finances, and daily living. While the decision can feel daunting, doing thorough research makes it manageable. Learn about different contract types, compare what fees cover, review financial histories, and visit healthcare facilities in person. Armed with clear answers to the five questions above and any other issues specific to your situation, you’ll be far better positioned to select a community that meets your needs and gives you confidence about the years ahead.