For active older adults, 55+ communities and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) offer two appealing lifestyle options. Both provide vibrant, age-restricted neighborhoods with opportunities for socializing, recreation and maintenance-free living. But while they share these similarities, a CCRC (also called a Life Plan Community) goes beyond what 55+ communities offer by including a comprehensive plan for changing health care needs.
If you’re considering the best fit for your lifestyle and future needs, here’s a look at the similarities between these types of communities – and the added advantages of a CCRC like University Village Thousand Oaks.
Shared Lifestyle Benefits of 55+ Communities and CCRCs
Social and Recreational Opportunities: Both 55+ communities and CCRCs focus on fostering an active social life for residents. Organized and spontaneous social events, clubs and group outings are common, allowing residents to connect over common interests and friendships. Whether it’s a game night, fitness class or book club, many community residents find this lifestyle enhances their overall well-being, as social engagement has been linked to better mental and physical health.
Maintenance-Free Living: Both 55+ communities and CCRCs eliminate the burdens of homeownership: repairs, yard work and other time-consuming chores. In place of these responsibilities, residents gain more time for hobbies, travel and leisure pursuits. Maintenance-free living not only makes daily life easier but can also reduce stress – something many active older adults value in retirement.
Convenient Amenities: On-site features often include fitness centers, walking trails, dining options, pools and sometimes even art studios or theaters. These amenities encourage physical activity, creative expression and convenience, ensuring that fulfilling and health pursuits are just steps away.
A Focus on Health and Wellness: Both types of communities focus on promoting health and wellness. However, in addition to wellness programs, fitness classes and access to health-focused events, CCRCs like University Village Thousand Oaks provide a more robust wellness approach that can meet changing health needs over time.
Where CCRCs Offer More: Comprehensive Health and Supportive Services
Built-In Health Care Options for Peace of Mind: One of the defining characteristics of CCRCs – or Life Plan Communities – is the inclusion of access to long-term care. In contrast to most 55+ communities, CCRCs offer a continuum of care, providing residents with a plan for future health care needs without needing to relocate. For instance, University Village residents have priority access to the adjacent health center for assisted living, memory care and long-term care in a skilled nursing center, if ever needed.
This continuity of care enables residents to stay in a familiar community, close to friends, while receiving the level of support they need as their health care requirements change.
Financial Stability and Predictable Costs: A CCRC like University Village Thousand Oaks offers a contract that gives residents financial predictability. By choosing a CCRC, residents secure access to health care services at stable rates for as long as they live at the community. In contrast, 55+ communities rarely provide care, leaving residents to navigate care options at a vulnerable time and then pay full market rates.
Comprehensive Approach to Aging Well: In addition to immediate social and lifestyle benefits, CCRCs support a broader approach to aging well. Programming and services support residents through each aspect of life, supporting cognitive health, ensuring nutrition dining options and providing daily physical fitness opportunities – with appropriate activities for all abilities.
Which Choice is Right for You?
If you’re an active older adult looking for a vibrant lifestyle in an age-restricted setting, a Continuing Care Retirement Community like University Village offers a more comprehensive solution.
To learn more about lifestyle, contract structure and residential options, contact us today and schedule a personal tour.
