Why Choose Continuing Care Retirement Communities?

Article submitted by Diane Miles, Marketing Director at McKendree Village in Hermitage, Tennessee.
For more information, she can be reached at 615-871-8134.

WHAT DO SENIOR CONSUMERS WANT? The last fifteen years have brought about a major expansion in the development of housing and care for seniors. Continuing care retirement communities (CCRC) offer a broad spectrum of residential options for older adults who wish to have the security, services and peace of mind provided. Most residents move into a retirement community while they are still moderately healthy and able to live independently. Although they may never need assisted living or skilled nursing, they know that the CCRC provides these services, if required.

What are senior adults looking for as they investigate the possibility of moving to a CCRC? Years of research that impact the decisions of developers and investors have determined the following:

• The availability of the continuum of care (independent, assisted living and skilled care) is crucial.
• The credibility and reputation of the community weighs heavily on the decision making process.
• Access to stimulating and varied activities, educational programs, social opportunities, wellness programs, and a focus on life long learning is an important consideration.
• There is a strong demand for increased levels of customer service, especially in the area of the dining services experience.
• The desire to be near family, friends, church, and to live in an area that is familiar, also plays a key role in the decision making process.

Too often, the search for senior housing comes as a result of a health crisis or loss of a loved one. This often leads to making hasty or uninformed decisions. Many times, important decisions must be made by family or caregivers rather than the future resident. Research has shown that when seniors move to a retirement community when healthy and active, then they are more likely to remain independent for a longer period of time.

Today there are more choices than ever; and more communities are taking a holistic approach that focuses on body, mind and spirit. Persons requiring information about any CCRC or other community in their area should contact the Marketing Director at the community for detailed information and a first hand look at the community and services offered. When visiting, talk to other residents, experience the dining service program, and get a feel for the community.