A Helpful Q&A Guide About Life Plan Communities.
Retirement is a unique experience for everyone, but exploring your options early can help you or your loved one feel more confident about the future. Many older adults look to Life Plan Communities for long-term peace of mind—but what does that really mean, and how is it different from other senior living choices? This Q&A will help you understand what a Life Plan Community is, what makes them different and who they’re designed to support.
Q: What is a Life Plan Community?
A Life Plan Community—also called a continuing care retirement community (CCRC)—is defined as a type of senior living community that provides housing, amenities, entertainment and a full continuum of care on one campus.
What makes Life Plan Communities different is that they focus on helping you stay in the community you love for years to come. This means that you can remain surrounded by familiar neighbors and trusted staff, with access to a full range of care options, including:
Q: What are common features of Life Plan Communities?
While every Life Plan Community or CCRC is different, many share common features that are particularly beneficial for older adults who prefer more stable, yet flexible living.
- Multiple care levels on site. Residents can easily transition between levels of care, whether their health needs change suddenly or gradually evolve over time. Many couples benefit from this convenience as well, since both partners can remain in the same community even if one requires more support.
- Long-term peace of mind. At a Life Plan Community, you can enjoy the reassurance of planned future care, predictable costs and the stability of knowing you’ll be able to remain in your home even if your health changes.
- Vibrant community life. There are opportunities to participate in group activities, build friendships, pursue new hobbies and enjoy life on your terms.
- More time for what you love. Most of your meals, daily chores, home maintenance and lawn care are all managed by staff. Plus, many of these communities provide access to amenities, such as a barber and beauty salon, computer room, fitness center, mailroom and other on-site conveniences.
- A variety of homes. Residents can choose from a range of residences—such as small studios, spacious two-bedroom apartments and more—depending on the community. They are designed to provide comfort and often include safety features, such as non-slip flooring or emergency response systems.
- Support for families. On-site respite care is available to give families and caregivers a well-deserved break when needed. Loved ones living in the community can also enjoy regular visits from family members who are welcome to join them for meals or activities.
Q: How do Life Plan Communities make future planning easier?
Life Plan Communities simplify future planning by allowing you to arrange your long-term living and healthcare needs in advance. They use a variety of contract options to help you design the retirement lifestyle you prefer.
Each community offers its own selection. For example, at Westerwood residents can choose from a few contract types tailored to different priorities and levels of flexibility:
- Life Care Contract. The Life Care option offers comprehensive coverage for all levels of care, from independent living to long-term care. By signing up while you’re healthy, you secure guaranteed access to services and predictable costs, even if your care needs change. For a one-time entry fee, you gain control over your future healthcare expenses and the reassurance that you can always stay in your home.
- Life Choice Agreement. The Life Choice agreement offers a lower entrance fee and discounts on future healthcare services. It also includes up to 10 complimentary days per year for short-term stays in assisted living or rehabilitation.
- Rental Agreement. For those who prefer to avoid an upfront fee, the rental agreement provides the same amenities as Life Care and Life Choice, with monthly fees instead. While it can be a convenient option for some, it does not lock in protection against rising healthcare costs.
Q: How is a Life Plan Community different from other senior living?
Life Plan Communities and CCRCs stand out because they offer an active lifestyle and long-term plan for future care—all in one place. Unlike standalone senior living options, which provide only one level of support, these communities cater to any need, any time.
This means you can move in while you’re active and independent, enjoy the amenities and social opportunities and have peace of mind knowing that higher levels of care are available if you ever need them. You don’t have to move again, search for new providers or navigate care decisions during a stressful time. For many seniors, the combination of stability and convenience makes Life Plan Communities a reassuring long-term choice.
Still have retirement questions? Ask Westerwood’s experts.
The truth is that every Life Plan Community differs in terms of costs and services, including ours. For example, at our nonprofit community in Columbus, Ohio, we reinvest in our campus and residents, and benevolence funds may be available to provide financial assistance to those who qualify. That’s just one detail that makes our community stand out. Want to learn more or tour our Life Plan Community? Call 614-890-8282 to schedule a personal consultation or request our brochure for more information.
