Navigating the world of senior living options can be a daunting task, both for older individuals and their families. 2 common models—continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) and rental models—offer different approaches to accommodating the needs of aging individuals.
While CCRCs provide a more structured and long-term approach, rental models offer flexibility and lower financial barriers to entry without compromising on quality of life.
Exploring what each type of community offers, the different levels of care they provide, and the unique benefits they offer can be hugely beneficial in choosing the right community for your loved one.
What Is a CCRC?
A CCRC is designed to offer a comprehensive continuum of care. Residents can transition seamlessly through various levels of care, including independent living, assisted living, and more as their needs change over time. CCRCs typically require a substantial entry fee along with monthly fees.
Key Benefits
- Continuum of care: A CCRC ensures that residents can age in place, moving between different care levels without the need for relocation.
- Community engagement: These communities emphasize a social and active lifestyle with numerous amenities and activities.
- Long-term commitment: They often require a long-term commitment, offering stability in both living arrangements and care.
However, CCRCs may not suit everyone due to their high upfront costs and commitment requirements.
What Is a Rental Model?
A rental model provides an alternative approach that may better suit certain families. This model eliminates the large entry fee associated with CCRCs, offering a more flexible, lower-starting-cost option while maintaining a high quality of community living.
Key Benefits
- Lower initial costs: Without the need for an upfront entry fee, families can manage their finances more flexibly.
- A la carte care services: While primarily focused on one specific level of care, additional care services can be availed as needed, offering flexibility without long-term commitment.
- Flexibility and choice: Rental models often come with more adaptable lease agreements, providing the option for shorter stays or easier relocations if necessary.
Rental models may not provide the same level of care as CCRCs, but they do offer greater flexibility and lower initial financial commitment, along with varying levels of care depending on the community.
The Different Levels of Available Care
Within a CCRC or a rental model for senior living, you’ll find varying levels of care and lifestyle options. CCRCs and rental models both tend to offer independent living, assisted living, memory care, and respite care or skilled nursing options.
Independent Living
Independent living is designed for seniors who are active and able to manage their daily lives with minimal assistance.
Residents live in private apartments or homes and have access to a variety of amenities, such as dining options, fitness centers, social activities, and housekeeping services. Independent living communities provide a vibrant and engaging lifestyle while offering peace of mind that additional care is available when needed.
Assisted Living
Assisted living is designed for seniors who require some help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Residents in assisted living enjoy a balance of independence and support, with personalized care plans tailored to their unique needs. This level of care ensures that seniors receive the assistance they need while maintaining dignity and quality of life.
Memory Care
Memory care is specialized support for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These communities provide a secure environment, structured daily routines, and specialized activities designed to support cognitive function and emotional well-being.
One of the standout programs at Bridge Senior Living is Lilac Trace, our signature memory care program. Lilac Trace combines evidence-based practices with compassionate care to create a nurturing environment for residents with memory impairments.
Respite Care
Respite care provides temporary relief for primary caregivers, offering a short-term stay within the community for seniors. This level of care is designed to support caregivers who need a break to rest, travel, or manage personal affairs. Respite care can be particularly beneficial during times of caregiver burnout or when additional support is needed due to illness or an unexpected situation.
Respite care typically includes access to the same high-quality amenities and services available to long-term residents, such as assistance with daily activities, social activities, and medical care. It allows caregivers to recharge while ensuring their loved ones receive professional, compassionate care in a safe and nurturing environment.
Skilled Nursing
Skilled nursing facilities within CCRCs are equipped to provide 24-hour medical attention and support for individuals recovering from surgery, illness, or managing chronic health conditions. These services include, but are not limited to, physical therapy, medication management, and assistance with daily activities from licensed nurses and skilled healthcare professionals.
Benefits of Choosing a Rental Model for Senior Living
Opting for a rental model in senior living comes with a host of benefits that create a supportive and enriching environment for residents.
- Sense of community: Rental communities often cultivate a welcoming atmosphere where residents can actively engage with peers through various social activities and events, contributing to a vibrant, interactive community life.
- Range of amenities: Many senior living communities will also include on-site fitness centers, pools, entertainment areas, and chef-prepared meals, which encourage an active and fulfilling lifestyle. These amenities are designed not only for leisure but also to support wellbeing and health.
- Quality care: While the rental model may not provide a continuity of care for residents, varying levels of care are available. Highly trained caregivers are present within independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities and accessible whenever residents may need them.
Considerations for Selecting the Right Community
When choosing a community for your loved one, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure it meets your loved one’s needs and preferences:
- Location: Consider the proximity to family, friends, and healthcare providers.
- Services and amenities: Review the range of services and amenities offered and ensure they align with your loved one’s lifestyle and interests.
- Cost: Understand the fee structure, including entrance fees, monthly fees, and any additional costs for higher levels of care.
- Quality of care: Research the community’s reputation, staff qualifications, and resident satisfaction.
Choosing a Community for Your Loved One
Choosing the right community can significantly impact your loved one’s quality of life and well-being. Bridge Senior Living offers a warm and welcoming environment within a rental structure that allows older adults to live on their own terms while receiving the support they need or desire. We invite you to explore our communities and discover the vibrant lifestyles we offer. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your loved ones in their retirement years.
