Studies confirm that most retirees would prefer to live in their own home for as long as possible. But if you eventually need support or services as you age, where can you turn? And how will you pay for those services?

CCRCs Without Walls is a relatively new and innovative option that gives seniors access to the care and services they need at home. This approach is currently being offered by only a dozen or so providers across the country but will likely play a larger role in the future of continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) since it appeals to those who cannot or will not move into a CCRC—but like the idea of guaranteed access to care at a predictable price.

How it works

Like a CCRC contract, a CCRC Without Walls agreement requires an entrance fee and a monthly service fee, but the cost is much less than moving into the CCRC. Depending on the contract, a bundle of services is then available to you in your home. If and when you decide to move into the CCRC, you will have priority over non-members, and you will continue to pay the same monthly fee for health care services.

According to Steve Maag, director of residential services at LeadingAge, services available through CCRCs Without Walls vary, but may include care coordination, home inspections, annual physicals, access to activities at the CCRC, wellness programs, transportation, companion or live-in care, home care or home health care, an emergency response system, adult day care, meals, referral services, assisted living care and nursing home care.

So if you are concerned about accessing support and services as you age, but are not ready to leave the comfort and familiarity of your home, consider talking with a CCRC provider that offers an at-home model.

Visit www.lifesitelogics.com to learn more about continuing care retirement communities.

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