What is a Continuum of Care Retirement Community (CCRC)?

Article submitted by Shirene Saddler, Marketing Manager, CHRISTUS St. Joseph Villa. She can be reached at 
801-487-7557.

What is a Continuum of Care Retirement Community (CCRC)? It is a fairly recent concept in the retirement living industry. Aging in place became the mantra for many seniors in the 1990's. Owners of retirement centers and nursing homes took notice. Throughout the southeastern part of the United States CCRC Retirement campuses sprung up. Independent, healthy and active retired individuals found housing in Senior Apartments or Condominiums with the option of aging in place.

Many CCRC's have options for seniors who vary from completely independent to completely dependent. Housing options include condos or apartments for active seniors. Assisted Living Centers provide for those who need a little more help in the way of medication reminders, assistance with bathing or housekeeping and meal preparation.

When illness or injury strikes, seniors living within the Continuum of Care may receive short term rehabilitation or long term convalescent care in the community's Skilled Nursing Facility. Some campuses have home health components that provide in-home assistance for short spells of illness. Campuses often include wellness centers where the residents can have their blood pressure or blood sugar checked. Some communities include Adult Day Centers or Alzheimer's programs for seniors with failing memories.

In Utah there are several campuses where seniors can choose between Retirement Living and Assisted Living within the same community. There are some facilities that provide Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Care on the same Campus. At this point in time there is only one Continuum of Care that includes everything from independent senior apartments to skilled nursing care. This campus also includes adult and child day programs and a senior behavioral health center with inpatient and outpatient services.

The most appealing aspect of a Continuum of Care Community is that a person gains stability and familiarity. Many losses and changes occur as a person ages or becomes frail. Being part of a community, making friends and developing relationships and then being able to stay in that community when life changes is a comfort to both the seniors and those who love and care for them.