What is a Life Plan Community or CCRC?

Like every other phase in our lives so far, retirement seems to come with its own vocabulary and a whole new way of talking and thinking about how we navigate our daily lives.  

From RMDs for retirement accounts to downsizing, estate planning, and choosing a retirement location, there’s so much to learn and so many decisions to make. 

While seeking the perfect retirement situation, you’ve likely encountered the terms Life Plan Community and Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC).  

Life Plan Communities is a popular, updated term for CCRCs, and understand how hard you have had to work to get here and offer you the lifestyle you want with the services you need.  

These communities offer a blend of independent living, healthcare services, and resort-style amenities that set them apart from other retirement options. Here, we explore what makes a Life Plan Community unique and why it is a preferred choice for many retirees. 

Before we jump into the real discussion on what a Life Plan Community offers, let’s get a formal definition out of the way. 

Life Plan Community Definition 

A Life Plan Community, or Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), is a type of residential community specifically designed for older adults.  

These communities provide a range of lifestyle choices that allow aging in place. They include a continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living and healthcare services, all within the same location. This allows residents to enjoy the amenities and freedom of retirement while ensuring they have access to the care they need as their personal needs evolve. 

Planning: Deliberate, Comprehensive Living and Care  

Life Plan Communities provide services ensuring that residents have what they need, when they need it. The range of options and levels of care available mean that as your personal needs change, your living environment adapts to you.   

This includes: 

• Independent Living: Residents enjoy the freedom and privacy of their own homes with the added security of a supportive community. 

• Personal Care: Nursing staff is available to assist with your activities of daily living—cooking, housekeeping, laundry, bathing, grooming and managing your medications 

• Skilled Nursing Care: Access to professional medical care and rehabilitation services when necessary. 

This comprehensive approach means that residents can stay in the same community even as their health needs change, eliminating the stress and disruption of moving to different facilities. 

Enjoy Retirement: Unique Amenities and Lifestyle Options 

Life Plan Communities offer a wide range of amenities and lifestyle options that cater to diverse interests and preferences: 

• Cultural and Educational Programs: Regularly scheduled activities such as lectures, workshops, and classes to keep residents engaged and mentally stimulated. 

• Wellness Programs: Comprehensive wellness initiatives including fitness classes, nutritional guidance, and mental health support. 

• Art and Craft Studios: Dedicated spaces for residents to explore creative hobbies and pursue artistic passions. 

These unique amenities ensure that residents can continue to learn, grow, and enjoy a vibrant lifestyle in retirement. This is just a small list of the many reasons why people choose to move to Life Plan Communities.

Find Your Perfect Match: Diverse Communities and Aesthetics 

Each of us is unique, with different desires for our retirement. Your choice needs to fit you, from meeting your expectations and needs, all the way down to location. Life Plan Communities offer a variety of living options to suit different preferences and lifestyles: 

• Urban, Suburban, and Rural Settings: Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of city life, the tranquility of the suburbs, or the peace of the countryside, there is a community to match your taste. 

• Modern, Well-Maintained Properties: Communities are regularly updated to ensure a comfortable and stylish living environment. 

• Green Spaces and Gardens: Beautifully landscaped areas for residents to enjoy the outdoors and nature. 

This diversity allows residents to choose a community that aligns with their personal preferences and lifestyle goals. 

Choose Your Own Adventure: Luxury and High-End Living 

Retirement does not have to lack ambiance or the finer things in life. Life Plan Communities can offer many different living styles, from comfortable to luxury and high-end. Some provide an exceptional quality of life through: 

• Private Dining Rooms: Intimate dining spaces for family gatherings and special occasions. 

• Concierge Services: Personalized assistance to help residents with daily tasks, travel arrangements, and more. 

• Transportation: Access to private transportation services for local trips and excursions. 

This focus on luxury ensures that residents who wish to enjoy the finer things in life can do so, making their retirement years truly enjoyable. 

Get to Know Your Life Plan Community Options  

A Life Plan Community or Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offers a unique blend of independent living, comprehensive care, and resort-style amenities that set it apart from other retirement options. By providing a luxurious and supportive environment, these communities allow residents to retire from the ordinary and live the extraordinary.  

The Explore Retirement Living collective of 17 Life Plan Communities, nestled in Lancaster County, PA, offers a full range of aesthetics and lifestyles, from simple and fun to high-end luxury, with built-in services to accommodate your needs.  

Don’t miss out on our Open House, a single day in which you can visit the communities that best suit your needs to get to know them.