When you start to compare senior living options, there’s almost always a reference to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). If you’re like most people, you have a general understanding of the concept. But as for a specific CCRC definition…that’s where things get a little fuzzy.

In fact, Salem-area residents often ask us, “What is a CCRC?” So here’s a quick “CCRC 101” that should clear things up about this senior living option.

*Based on our 70 years of senior living experience, Dallas Retirement Village has tailored the CCRC model to fit the needs of seniors in the Salem and Dallas, Oregon area. An asterisk explains instances where Dallas Retirement Village differs from the typical CCRC model.

What is a CCRC?

In a nutshell, it’s a senior living community that offers a variety of living options—from independent living to skilled nursing care—all within one community. The idea is that seniors can live in one location throughout their lives, with the peace of mind knowing onsite care is available as needed.

*Dallas Retirement Village also offers assisted living, memory care and rehabilitation.

What is life like at a CCRC?

Typically, a senior moves into a residence at a CCRC to live independently and enjoy the lifestyle they create for themselves. This includes access to social, wellness and educational programs, plus services such as dining, housekeeping, scheduled transportation, maintenance, and security.

*Residents may move into Dallas Retirement Village at any level—independent living, assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing care.

What makes a CCRC different than other options?

The unique benefit of a CCRC is access to a continuum of care if ever needed. Residents receive care all within the same community—surrounded by friends and staff they already know. Plus, couples appreciate remaining close to each other when one spouse requires care.

How much does it cost to move into a CCRC?

Most CCRCs have a one-time entrance fee that is held and used to provide for future long-term care at prearranged rates. Refundability of the entrance fee varies by community.

*Dallas Retirement Village does not require an entrance fee and offers month-to-month rentals in Independent Living as well as Assisted Living and Memory Care. A second option for Independent Living requires a one-time accommodation fee for independent living Garden Homes and Lodge Residences that is separate from care. The majority of the accommodation fee is refundable to the resident or estate when the residence is reoccupied and the accommodation fee has been paid in full by the new resident. This approach allows for maximum financial flexibility to our residents in choosing how they wish to use the funds for future health care. For example, if a couple moves to Dallas Retirement Village and one spouse passes away, the other partner may move to live near family and receive a prorated refund of their accommodation fee based on how long they have lived at Dallas Retirement Village.

What are the month-to-month costs?

A monthly payment covers maintenance, dining programs and access to all services and amenities of the community.

*Dallas Retirement Village residents have a wide variety of services and amenities specially designed to give you freedom and peace of mind.  Visit our website to see a full list of services and amenities.

Do residents have to qualify for residency at a CCRC?

Many CCRCs require potential residents to pass a medical screening to show that they qualify for independent living. There’s also typically a financial qualification process.

*Residents considering Dallas Retirement Village do not have to undergo a medical disclosure or financial qualifying to live at Dallas Retirement Village.

If you would like more details about the CCRC concept and Dallas Retirement Village, call us at 503-623-9211 or fill out an online form.