Connecticut Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Connecticut

A continuing care retirement community, often abbreviated as CCRC, is the only option for seniors that delivers access to an entire spectrum of care, including independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing care and memory care. Within the state of Connecticut, there are up to one hundred CCRCs, offering a wide range of housing options, activities and amenities.

The CCRCs in Connecticut are found in Greater Hartford, Greater Bridgeport, Litchfield, New Haven, Norwich, New London and Windham. They also service the communities of New Britain, Farmington, Middletown, Bloomfield, and Stamford. Such retirement communities welcome people over the age of 55, who exhibit an acceptable state of health and meet the necessary criteria of financial eligibility.

Seniors are often drawn to the small-town charm and the moderate climate of Connecticut communities. CCRCs are often found in charming locations, with access to plenty of nature and many other attractive opportunities. Residents are required to deposit a substantial entry fees, as well as cover the monthly fees. These fees differ according to the chosen level of care and the actual amenities offered.

All CCRCs have one thing in common: they support senior residents in living a life that is as independent as possible, covering the requirements for socialization, physical activity, and healthcare. They offer the possibility to transition into a new level of care within the same setting, which is a significant advantage.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Connecticut - Financial eligibility and costs

Think of entering a CCRC as an investment for the future, and make sure that you have the necessary financial resources before applying for admittance. As mentioned above, many retirement communities of this kind require a significant entrance fee. Prospective residents might rely on retirement funds, as well as other assets or savings, to cover this fee. Please consider the fact that monthly fees will have to be covered as well, and the require range is often two to four times the income.

The average cost of moving into a CCRC, in New Haven County, is of $2,950 per month. This is higher than the national average, which is around $2,538. More affordable CCRCs can be found in Middlesex County, and these are usually more popular with senior residents. The cost of CCRCs has increased in the past few years, with entrance fees surpassing $100,000 and going as far as $1,000,000.

Residents have the possibility to choose the best level of care that suits them, and the overall fees will differ accordingly. Memory care, for instance, is the most expensive level of care. Life care contracts are offered with certain facilities, as well as the possibility to cover the fees in monthly payments. It is for the best to take some time and consider all the options before taking a final decision.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Connecticut - services and care levels

Residents who choose a CCRC in the state of Connecticut might benefit from the following services: housing, healthcare, housekeeping, laundry and linen, transportation, etc. It can be a great idea to visit the CCRC before applying and inquire about the services offered, as these might be different from one center to the other. As a general rule, all these retirement communities are trying to ensure a high level of independence for their residents, as well as a comfortable living experience.

The care levels are usually the same, including the ones mentioned above. Independent living is the first choice offered, being reserved for individuals who do not have complex health care needs and capable of handling daily living activities themselves. As these needs change, both in terms of health and independence, residents can transition to assisted living, skilled nursing care, or memory care.

Each level comes with its own particular provisions. In assisted living, the resident will receive both additional healthcare guidance and personal assistance. Skilled nursing care is recommended for those with complex healthcare needs, while memory care is offered to those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

How is the need for transitioning decided? Residents are assessed on a regular basis, as this is necessary to determine current healthcare needs and the ability to handle daily living activities independently. Factors influencing the decision to transition a resident into a new level of care include: complex healthcare needs, changes reducing the level of independence, cognitive deterioration, etc.

CCRC in Connecticut - options and amenities

By moving into a CCRC, seniors have a wide range of options available. They can choose between different types of living arrangements, including apartments, townhouses and cottages. Living units can have various styles and sizes, and residents can live alone or together with their partners. You can go online and explore the CCRC, and even view floor plans and the amenities included.

General amenities include swimming pools, tennis and golf courts, social events, and religious services. Many CCRCs are pet-friendly, which is a significant advantage for prospective residents who want to be around their furry friends. Some retirement communities have banking services, gardening services, walking trails, fitness centers, beauty salons and even guest accommodations.

There are also common activity areas, which are greatly appreciated by prospective residents. From craft rooms to art studios and woodworking ateliers, the opportunities for spending one’s time are practically endless. Dining rooms are designed in the style of restaurants, and there are many interesting additions, such as libraries, cafes, computer rooms, auditoriums, and learning classes. The latter are especially recommended to those who have been diagnosed with deteriorating conditions, such as dementia.

Is a CCRC the best choice for you?

Connecticut CCRCs can offer you the possibility to live an independent life, in a community with people of a similar age, who share your ideas and passions. To help you decide, we have included a few pros and cons.

Pros of moving to a CCRC in CT

Wide range of activities and amenities

Possibility to maintain an active, independent lifestyle

Part of a community, you won't feel socially isolated or depressed

Access to a full continuum of care (independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing care, memory care)

Both current and future healthcare needs are considered, with emphasis on prevention

Cons of moving to a CCRC in CT

Strict financial eligibility criteria

Prolonged period of adjustment

Moving into a CCRC will require a lot of planning & hard decisions to make

You might miss your family, but luckily visits are allowed

Waiting time can be extremely long, sometimes even years

As a prospective CCRC resident, you should research different retirement communities in Connecticut and analyze your finances accordingly. Consider your future and how you want to spend it, taking into account both the pros and cons of life in such a community.