When it comes to retirement living, there are a lot of options. Sorting through them can feel confusing—especially when you’re trying to plan not just for today, but for the future as well.
One option you may hear about is a Continuum of Care Retirement Community, often called a CCRC. Simply put, a CCRC is a retirement community that offers several levels of care all on one campus. This can include Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing.
The main benefit? You can stay in one familiar place as your needs change over time. This is often called “aging in place.”
CCRCs usually involve an entrance fee and a monthly fee, and there are different contract options depending on the community. While they can be more expensive up front, many people value the peace of mind, convenience, and sense of community they offer.
Let’s take a closer look at what life in a CCRC can look like.
So, What Exactly Is a CCRC?
A CCRC is a single campus designed to support you through different stages of retirement and health needs. If you start out living independently and later need more help, you can move to another level of care without leaving the community.
Because everything is in one place, you get to know the staff, the layout, and your neighbors. Many people find this familiarity comforting, especially during times of change.
Each CCRC offers different contract options and price ranges, so it’s important to ask questions and understand what’s included.
Independent Living
Independent Living is for people who are mostly able to care for themselves and want a lifestyle that’s easier and more social.
Here’s what Independent Living often includes:
This level of care is a good fit if you’re active and independent, with or without a cane or walker, and don’t need daily help with personal care.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living is there for times when you might need a little extra help with day-to-day tasks but don’t need full-time medical care.
In Assisted Living, residents typically receive:
This may be a good option if you or your loved one:
Memory Care
Memory Care is a specialized type of care for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
These areas are designed to be safe and calming, with staff who are specially trained to support memory-related needs. Daily routines, secure spaces, and engaging activities help residents feel comfortable and supported while maintaining quality of life.
Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF)
Skilled Nursing is available for people who need 24-hour care and medical support. This care is provided by licensed nurses, nursing assistants, and therapists, under the guidance of a physician.
Skilled Nursing may be needed:
Many people use Skilled Nursing temporarily and then return to Independent or Assisted Living once they’re feeling stronger—all without leaving the campus.
Why Some People Choose a CCRC
People often choose CCRCs because they offer:
Things to Think About Before Choosing a CCRC
Like any big decision, there are important things to consider:
You can look up quality ratings for Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing communities at medicare.gov/care-compare.
In Closing
A Continuum of Care Retirement Community can be a wonderful choice for those who want to plan ahead and stay in one place as their needs change. Having all levels of care on one campus can reduce stress for both residents and families, while offering comfort, familiarity, and support.
As with any retirement decision, take time to ask questions, review contracts, and explore care quality to find the option that feels right for you.