Hawaii Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular destinations for retirees, with its pleasant climate, sandy beaches, and magnificent ocean views. Senior adults can choose to live, among other options, in a continuing care retirement community. These communities allow retirees to enjoy a comfortable standard of living, with access to healthcare and personal assistance, in accordance to their needs.

If you are planning on moving into a Hawaii-based CCRC, there are certain requirements you should be aware of. First of all, we are talking about the eligibility criteria and it should be mentioned that the cost of living is higher in Hawaii (the closer to the shoreline, the more expensive the prices are going to be). However, there are alternatives suitable for those with a moderate income.

Prospective residents must be 62 or older, but there are some CCRCs which allow seniors over the age of 55 to apply. In general, only residents with an acceptable state of health are accepted, but there are retirement communities which accept people with chronic conditions and/or disabilities. Additional eligibility criteria may apply accordance to each CCRC, with some offering lifetime care to its residents.

There are only several Hawaii-based CCRCs, but these are modern and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. Common locations include Honolulu, Kaneohe, Hawaii Kai, Kapolei, Kahala, and Pearl City. The first accredited faith-based CCRC in Hawaii opened its doors in 2003; it is located in central Honolulu, and it offers independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Hawaii - financing and costs

The state of Hawaii has both non-profit and for-profit CCRCs. Some, as the one mentioned above, are faith-based. In individual cases, the CCRCs might be subsidized by the state, and there are certain private-public partnerships supporting these retirement communities. Most, however, are privately-owned and require considerable fees to be covered.

Hawaii-based CCRCs are generally addressed to those with a higher income. They require a considerable entrance fee to be paid upon admittance, which is generally non-refundable. This sum can vary between $86,000 and $250,000 – the value is directly dependent on the preferred housing unit, level of care, services and amenities offered. Residents also have to cover a monthly fee that might vary between $2,500 and $5,000. By comparison, the national average is about $2,500.

The level of care is one of the most important factors influencing the overall associated costs. For instance, a resident who can live on his/her own, with little or no assistance, will have to cover a lower fee. On the other hand, if the respective resident opts for assisted living, skilled nursing, or memory care, the overall fees will be considerably higher. The type of contract will also influence the fees to be paid, with lifetime care contracts being generally the most expensive.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Hawaii - services and care levels

Continuing care retirement communities have been developed with the ideal of offering several levels of care, with the possibility to transition from one to the other, according to healthcare and personal assistance demands. Residents can choose independent living and live a comfortable life in the preferred housing unit. They can opt for assisted living when their health begins to deteriorate or if they require personal assistance on a daily basis.

In case of chronic health conditions, skilled nursing care represents a suitable level. Residents can benefit from rehabilitation, and transition back to a higher level of care, should their health improve. If a resident suffers from neurological degenerative conditions, mainly dementia, he/she might best suited for the memory care level. Transitions are recommended by experienced medical professionals, to the purpose of ensuring the best possible quality of life.

Regardless of the chosen care level, residents benefit from a wide array of services. These have been designed with the purpose of guaranteeing comfortable living, allowing older adults to age in place. The big advantage is that there is no homeowner responsibility, no stress of handling household chores or repairs. Basic services range from housekeeping and general maintenance to laundry and linen and security.

CCRC in Hawaii - amenities

Accredited Hawaii-based CCRCs entice prospective residents with several attractive options. They have the freedom to choose the desired housing unit, and also the option of moving in together with their partners or spouses. This is a considerable advantage, making the transition from living at home easier. Depending on the community, residents might also be allowed to live with their pets, which is also a substantial benefit to consider.

What about amenities? Retirees will discover that these retirement communities contain everything necessary for a high-standard of life. Common amenities include swimming pools, restaurants and cafes, tennis and golf courts, landscaped gardens, social clubs, learning centers, art studios. Some centers have movie/theater nights, others organize birthday parties and all sort of group events. All of these planned activities serve the purpose of covering the need for entertainment and socialization.

Whether we are talking about a retirement community suitable for those with a moderate income or a luxury CCRC, you will see that retires have plenty of opportunities for physical activity. There are gardens and parks to enjoy, as well as hiking/walking trails. Residents can practice their favorite sports or enter a dedicated exercise program, maintaining a high level of fitness.

Is moving into a CCRC the right decision for me?

If you dream of retiring and living a comfortable lifestyle, with everything necessary within reaching distance, a CCRC might be a good option for you. Not to mention, Hawaii is indeed one of the most amazing destinations for your golden years. Here are a few pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros of moving to a CCRC in HI

Hawaii-based CCRCs have specific advantages to offer, including gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean

Opportunity to choose the level of care that corresponds your needs the best, starting with independent living

Transitions to a new level of care are accepted and encouraged, in order to guarantee that your needs are met (healthcare and personal assistance)

Some CCRCs offer guaranteed lifetime care contracts

Access to an incredible diversity of services and amenities

Cons of moving to a CCRC in HI

Strict eligibility criteria to meet

Most Hawaii-based CCRC are suited to those with a higher income (luxury retirement)

Prolonged adjustment period & might miss your previous living arrangements

Perceived lack of freedom which might lead to frustration

Long waiting lists