When considering retirement communities for those aged 55 and older, there are several distinct options available. Some providers focus on residents who can live fully or mostly independently, while others are designed for people who need help with daily activities or higher levels of medical care. A third group of providers offers a full continuum … Read more

Deciding to move into a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a life plan community, is often like purchasing an insurance policy against uncertain future needs. You may worry about being unable to maintain your home, living safely on your own, or needing care your partner cannot provide. CCRCs offer a continuum of … Read more

In last week’s blog post, I shared another study finding that people who choose to move to a retirement community, such as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) or life plan community, tend to be healthier and happier overall than those who remain in their long-time homes. I noted then that these benefits don’t always … Read more

So you’ve researched options, visited several communities, and picked the life plan community (also called a continuing care retirement community or CCRC) that feels right for you. One remaining hurdle for many people is how to pay the entry fee. Most life plan communities require an entrance fee to fund the range of services available … Read more

The terminology used in senior living and healthcare can be confusing. Many terms sound similar but carry different meanings. One phrase that often puzzles people is “Medicare-certified” when applied to senior care providers. Below is a clear, practical explanation of what that designation means and how it affects care and costs. What is a senior … Read more

I am a strong supporter of continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also called life plan communities, especially those that are well-managed, financially stable, and prioritize residents and staff. Compared with the many challenges and uncertainties of aging at home—especially when mobility or cognitive abilities decline—CCRCs offer peace of mind for residents and their families, along … Read more

As people age, their health and lifestyle needs change, and the support they receive should adapt with them. If you’re researching senior living options—especially continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also called life plan communities—you’ve likely encountered the phrase “continuum of care.” It describes the range of services a community may provide as residents’ needs evolve. … Read more

Football season has begun, and millions tune in to watch their favorite teams battle it out on the gridiron. For retirees and those approaching retirement, fall is also a good time to review your own roster of professional service providers — the people you may need to call on to protect your finances, health, legal … Read more

As we age, life often brings changes that affect our health, finances, family relationships, and future plans. Many people know about estate planning or long-term care, but fewer understand what an elder law attorney does and how their guidance can protect financial security and provide peace of mind during later life. Understanding the role of … Read more

I am pleased to announce that MyLifeSite has launched a new audio podcast to complement the growing readership of this blog. Titled “Aging is a Trip,” the podcast takes a candid yet lighthearted look at many aspects of aging and retirement. Each episode aims to inform, provoke thought, and sometimes entertain. The goal is to … Read more