Recently I shared my thoughts on what the continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a life plan community, might look like in the years ahead. While I don’t have a crystal ball, I have offered ideas about community design trends, technology advances, and the industry’s move toward greater environmental sustainability. Those topics only scratch the surface of the changes we may see over the next decade and beyond.
A few weeks ago I invited blog readers to share their perspectives about senior living preferences and where they would like to see the CCRC industry head in the future. I asked people—some considering a CCRC move and others already living in CCRCs—to complete a short survey that included this open-ended prompt:
“In two short paragraphs or less, please describe key components of your ideal retirement community of the future, or what you feel must change compared to today’s options. It could include anything from the physical design, to the services offered, to the financial/contract structures and more.”
We received 38 responses. Although the sample is small and the findings are qualitative, respondents offered thoughtful and useful comments. Thank you to everyone who took the time to respond — your input matters.
>> Related: 3 Reasons Seniors Delay a CCRC Move & Why They Should Reconsider
Physical design: Overall community setting
Many respondents highlighted the importance of convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and public transportation. Equally important was the desire to feel part of an active community rather than isolated, and to have the ability to personalize their independent living homes.
Suggestions included more single-level, patio-style, open-plan homes with attractive grounds and amenities such as pickleball courts—similar to what is found in many 55+ communities. Several respondents rejected “stale, square, multi-story buildings,” asking instead for buildings with character, thoughtful landscaping, and quiet garden spaces. Customization was also important — the option to choose paint, flooring, built-in shelving, or even fenced yards was mentioned.
Energy efficiency and sustainable design were recurring themes. One participant emphasized that communities should be designed to remain viable for 30 years or more and take climate considerations into account.
>> Related: The Environmentally Sustainable CCRC of the Future
Other physical design considerations named by respondents included:
- Generous storage for hobbies and supplies, plus secure parking or storage for vehicles and recreational equipment like RVs, boats, motorcycles, or canoes.
- Property-wide security cameras that residents can access to monitor visitors, check whether common areas like the pool are busy, or simply feel more secure.
Respondents emphasized that independent living units should be truly age-friendly, enabling residents to age in place comfortably. Examples include wider hallways to accommodate scooters or power chairs, ADA-compliant appliances, and pull-out shelving.
As one respondent put it: “The communities that will thrive are those that stay ahead of the curve by educating potential residents and offering these changes as insurance for aging in place.”
>> Related: Will Aging in Place Soon Become a Thing of the Past?
Services: Wellness lifestyle, dining & other amenities
Dining remains a core consideration for prospects and residents. Many comments reflected a desire for choice, flexibility, and higher-quality options. Specific suggestions included casual dining with more couples seating, expanded meal plan choices, and more vegan and vegetarian options.
Respondents also sought an environment that supports overall physical and mental wellness. Suggestions included more fitness classes, healthier meal offerings with nutrition consultants, robust gyms, and lifelong learning opportunities such as lectures and continuing education on-site.
Other amenities that respondents would like to see include more walking paths, dog parks, informal gathering spaces, travel programs, and greater LGBT inclusivity.
>> Related: Bon Appetit: CCRCs Opening Their Dining Facilities to the Public
Financial/contract structure
Financial terms and contract models drew significant attention. Some respondents worry that cost could drive prospective residents to stay in their current homes, while others offered concrete ideas for more flexible pricing and contract options.
Suggestions included:
“Allow negotiating lower monthly fees in exchange for a higher one-time entrance payment.”
“Provide absolute clarity on monthly costs, extra charges, penalties, and exit fees, and on how long-term care is covered when applicable.”
“Offer non-refundable payment models for those who prefer to use money for their own support rather than leave a refund for heirs.”
“Expect a shift from traditional life-care buy-in contracts toward pay-as-you-go or à la carte monthly models.”
“Introduce rental (Type D) options to attract baby boomers living on reverse mortgages or without significant home equity.”
>> Related: Why Is Comparing CCRCs So Difficult?
Other notable topics
Several respondents focused on healthcare and emotional support within CCRCs. Ideas included stronger partnerships with independent case managers or advocates for residents seeking care guidance and on-site support groups to address grief and other common emotional needs.
Management and governance were recurring concerns. Residents want greater transparency, clearer governance structures, and a stronger sense that management acts in residents’ best interests. One practical suggestion was to hold interactive resident town hall meetings that are live-streamed so residents can watch and submit questions by text from their homes.
>> Related: How to Know If a CCRC’s Healthcare Center Will Meet Expectations
Going to the source of truth
Overall, the survey results provided valuable insight into what current and prospective residents want from the future of CCRCs. These voices should inform decisions about design, amenities, financial terms, and governance as the industry evolves. Listening to the people who will live in these communities is essential to creating CCRCs that truly feel like home.