Arizona Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Arizona

Many seniors opt for continuing care retirement communities in Arizona, as CCRCs allow retirees to live among their peers and have immediate access to a wide range of services. Once you reach a certain age, it makes sense to reconsider your living options. If you live in Arizona, the following information might be of interest to you.

What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community? A CCRC is a type of community recommended to people of older age, offering a mix of housing options, care and services, in one single location. By choosing to live in a CCRC, you will benefit from continuous care and you will also have the opportunity to transition to a new level of care, in accordance with your needs. The biggest advantage is that you will be allowed to remain in the same community.

CCRCs are sometimes referred to as "life plan communities", welcoming residents over a certain age (55+ or 62+). The main requirement is for the retiree to present an acceptable state of health, as well as independence and financial eligibility. Almost every retirement center in Arizona will require the applicant to prove that he/she can cover the associated fees.

How many continuing care retirement communities are there in Arizona? In the state of Arizona, there are over 100 CCRCs. These can be found in the larger urban areas, as Maricopa County, Scottsdale, Phoenix Metro, Prescott, or Tucson Metro. Additional locations include Chandler, Peoria, Mesa and Wickenburg. Investments are continuously made to expand the services offered within such retirement communities, especially since Arizona is considered one of the most popular retirement destinations in America.

CCRC in Arizona - financing and costs

In Maricopa County, where there are about 15 CCRCs, the average cost of living is about $3,150 per month. This is higher than the national average, which is around $2,500. In Scottsdale, there are 7 CCRCs, with an average cost of about $3,200 per month. These centers also serve smaller communities, such as Tempe, Mesa, or Fountain Hills. The most affordable CCRCs can be found in Peoria, where the average monthly fees can reach about $2,300.

To live in a CCRC, you might have to pay a substantial entrance fee. This will cover housing costs, as well as services and amenities that are included in the contract. Often times, the payment of the initial fee will also mean that the monthly fees will be lower. Retirees can cover the necessary fees using assets, savings, or both. The prices might also be different according to the level of care one needs, with skilled nursing care and memory care being the most expensive.

Potential CCRC applicants can choose between different types of contracts, in accordance to their health and personal assistance needs, as well as their financial eligibility. Contracts can include the above-mentioned entrance fee or a higher monthly fee. In Arizona, the CCRCs that offer life care residency contracts are regulated by the law. The overall costs do not differ too much from other states, but the demand is higher, as Arizona is considered a "retirement-friendly" destination.

CCRC in Arizona - care levels and services

A CCRC offers prospective residents the possibility to choose a suitable level of care, and move to a new one in case the situation changes. The main idea is to promote independent living in older age, with support from dedicated staff and medical specialists. One can start out with independent living and transition to assisted living or skilled nursing care in the future. Memory care is the most demanding level of care, being reserved for those who suffer from deteriorating neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

The transition from one level to the other is not a simple decision to make, and one that requires a multitude of factors to be taken into consideration. Seniors get transitioned from one level of care to the next based on a thorough assessment done by a specialist, considering both current health and challenges in terms of independence. It is also possible for a transition to be temporary, with the resident in question returning to independent living after some time. The services offered will differ according to the care level, but they are often concentrated on two main areas: medical and personal assistance.

What does life in a CCRC has to offer?

Life in a CCRC can be quite comfortable, and Arizona's retirement communities certainly do not disappoint. Residents can live alone or together with their partners, having the possibility to choose between different types of housing options. The staff assists with housekeeping, laundry, and gardening, allowing residents to enjoy their golden years. Meals at CCRC are prepared by trained chefs, with healthy, fresh ingredients.

In terms of amenities, you might be surprised at how many exciting things are waiting for you in continuing care retirement communities in Arizona. You can work out at the gym or give the swimming pool a try, take part to social events and worshipping services, and practice your favorite sport. Many centers have tennis courts or golf courses, encouraging residents to play team sports. Some accept pets, recognizing the benefits these offer in terms of socialization and physical activity.

It is interesting to see that a CCRC has something to offer for every resident, regardless of the level of care. For instance, there are amenities specific for residents diagnosed with dementia, such as learning centers, art studios, or memory gardens. In the future, we might expect to see even more amenities offered, particularly as the demand for CCRCs continues to increase.

What are pros and cons of moving to a CCRC in Arizona?

The answer to this question is entirely up to you. If you are considering choosing a CCRC in Arizona, the following pros and cons might help you reach the right decision.

What are some of the pros of moving to a CCRC in AZ?

Living in a retirement-friendly community, among people who share similar interests

Another positive is that housing as well as specialized care and services are offered in one single location by the CCRC of your choice

One of the advantages of living in a CCRC is that a senior can begin with a certain level of care, most commonly independent living, and transition to a new one in case his or her needs change

Access to a wide range of services and amenities, which will allow you to enjoy your golden years in peace

Future healthcare needs are taken into consideration for seniors moving to a continuing care retirement community in Arizona

Cons of moving to a CCRC in AZ

Life in a CCRC might be different from what you imagined

Another negative aspect of moving into a CCRC community is that adjustment may be difficult for some seniors.

Eligibility criteria can be tough, especially in terms of financing

Might be rejected due to chronic health issues

Prolonged waiting period, might take months or even years to be admitted into a continuing care retirement community

When faced with such an important decision, it is for the best to take your time and consider all the facts. Arizona is a beautiful destination for seniors and it has plenty of regulated CCRCs, so you are already on the right path.