Virginia Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Virginia

In Virginia, there are over 150 continuing care retirement communities. These can be found in: Charlottesville, Gloucester, Newport News, Norfolk, Onancock, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Washington, Silver Spring, and Chesapeake. CCRCs are regulated by the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Department of Social Services. According to the law, they must meet or exceed the existent health regulations.

Continuing care retirement communities in Virginia are ideal for active adults who are interested in maintaining an independent lifestyle, for as long as their health allows it. These senior living communities welcome retirees who present an acceptable state of health and over a certain age (commonly over 55 or 62). Unfortunately, with older adults, such as those over 80, who have pre-existent medical conditions, the risk of rejection is high.

Aside from the age requirement, prospective residents must pay a substantial entrance fee, which covers housing costs, services, and amenities, including the access to healthcare. Senior residents must also cover a monthly fee, which is often dependent on their income. Most CCRCs require senior adults to submit medical records, as well as health screenings with their application. In some cases, additional physical examinations will be performed by the on-site physician.

The use of the entrance fee, and other additional fees, by the CCRCs is under specific provisions and limitations. Moreover, all Virginia-based retirement communities must prove they offer high-quality services, to the purpose of ensuring the health and functionality of their residents.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Virginia - financing and costs

The financial eligibility is one of the most important criteria to consider when applying for admittance. Prospective residents must analyze their finances, preferably with the help of an experienced lawyer. Commonly, entrance fees are covered by using various assets and savings, including retirement funds. Selling one's property is also an acceptable solution, as it can offer exactly the funds one needs. Monthly fees can be covered through the monthly income or pension.

The costs for Virginia CCRCs depend on the type of contract chosen by the resident, with life care contracts requiring the most substantial investment. Such a contract has entrance fees that vary between $160,000 and $600,000; it guarantees life care and housing, as well as access to services and amenities. The monthly fees for the same type of contract vary between $2,500 and $4,500. By comparison, the national average is $2,500.

Modified contracts have entrance fees that start at a lower rate but go as high as $750,000. The monthly fees are situated on the lower range, with a maximum of $2,500. With fee-for-service contracts, where residents only pay for the services currently used, the entrance fees vary between $100,000 and $500,000. These contracts have associated monthly fees starting at $1,300 and going as high as $4,300. Last, but not least, there are rental agreements, where the access to healthcare is not guaranteed. These agreements have the lowest fees.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Virginia - care levels and services

It is a known fact that CCRCs offer access to multiple levels of care on the same campus. The continuum of care represents the main advantage such a community has to offer, and many residents find it comforting to know they can remain in the same places, even when their health changes. Residents begin with independent living, enjoying a comfortable lifestyle, without the burden of maintenance or house chores. At the same time, they have access to services and amenities, with plenty of opportunities to socialize.

They transition to assisted living when their health changes, benefitting from personal assistance and additional services, such as medication management. The staff providing healthcare and support is available 24/7. In skilled nursing care, residents can recover from major health events, illnesses, or surgeries. People with severe chronic conditions can benefit from this care level, with their recovery taking part in a supportive environment. Memory care programs are centered on residents with dementia, often including supervision and activities dedicated to cognitive stimulation.

No matter the care level, all residents have access to the on-site services. Basic provisions include housekeeping, general maintenance, 24/7 security, Internet, cable, telephone, and meal plans with dietary adjustments. Additional services might include: emergency call system, guest admissions, laundry and linen service, transportation to/from medical appointments. In some situations, other levels of care are provided, such as hospice care and home health care.

CCRC in Virginia - amenities and options

All CCRCs invite prospective residents to check out the campus, even if only through a virtual tour. As a result, you can see the housing units available, such as apartments and garden homes. It is worth mentioning that spouses are allowed to live together, being able to remain in the same community, regardless of the needed care level. Some communities allow pets, but you must check the policy to make sure you can bring your furry friend along.

The amenities offered vary from one retirement community to the other. You should check out different CCRCs, trying to decide on what you want. Are you looking for an active community or you prefer a quieter life? In terms of general amenities, you will find: library, computer room, common areas, social clubs, fitness and wellness center, swimming pool, tennis court, golf course, religious worship service with chaplain, woodworking shop, art studio, learning center, hiking and walking trails. Memory care amenities might be offered in some campuses.

What are some positives and negatives of moving into a CCRC in Virginia?

Virginia-based CCRCs offer you the opportunity to lead a peaceful existence, surrounded by like-minded people and with immediate access to everything necessary for a comfortable lifestyle. Here are some pros and cons to help you come closer to a decision.

Pros of moving to a CCRC in VA

Opportunity to live and age well

Rehabilitation after major health events, such as stroke or heart attacks

Spouses remain on the same campus, even when their health needs differ

Quality care to ensure the health and safety of residents

A wide range of options in terms of housing and healthcare

Cons of moving to a CCRC in VA

Life in a CCRC can be intimidating, especially if you are used to a different lifestyle

Expensive entrance and monthly fees

Residents who are over 80 years of age, with pre-existing medical conditions, might not be accepted

Fee-for-service contracts are risky, as both prices and service availability can change

Life care contracts are advantageous for the residents but they are the most expensive