Shine Brightly in Retirement: Your Guide to Choosing a CCRC

A forever home in a dream location, ready for whatever life brings your way. Tailored health care services, from wellness to long-term care. An extraordinary retirement today and for years to come. Limitless opportunities to seize every precious moment.

A continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a Life Plan Community, offers this lifestyle and so much more. But with more than 2,000 of them nationwide, you may wonder how to choose a retirement community that is right for you or your loved one.

In this blog, we’ll highlight key considerations and qualities to look for in a CCRC community to help you and your loved ones confidently navigate this important next step. We’ll also explore the significance of CARF accreditation and why Newsweek recognized Paradise Valley Estates as one of America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities in 2024.

Continuing Care Retirement Community Definition

A CCRC is a unique retirement living option providing various care levels within one campus. This all-in-one solution enables you to transition seamlessly between independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing care as your needs evolve. But perhaps a key factor to note is that moving to a CCRC when you’re still very independent provides you with the greatest opportunity to take advantage of all they have to offer — robust activities calendars, amenities on a par with some of the finest hotels, dining that ranges from casual grab and go to fine table-side service. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a continuing care retirement community.

Find Your Dream Destination: Imagine living in a community that feels like paradise every day. It’s about more than just the address; it’s about being close to family and friends, surrounded by cultural gems and nature retreats, and having access to all the recreational amenities that light up your life.

Budget Bliss: We all want our golden years to shine brightly, which means understanding the CCRC financial landscape. Dive into the details of entrance fees, monthly expenses and healthcare costs to ensure the community’s financial model aligns with your budget and long-term wishes.

A Smooth Transition: Life is full of twists and turns, and the CCRC you choose should adapt to your evolving needs, providing a full spectrum of care. The best communities make it easy for you to effortlessly shift from independent living to assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing — should you ever need it. With all these options on one campus, you’ll always find the care and support you need without the hassle of relocating.

Live Your Best Life: Imagine a retirement that’s an everyday adventure. From staying active in fitness centers and delicious dining options to indulging in social activities and cultural events, pick a CCRC with a lifestyle and amenities that align with your interests and wishes.

Wellness Warriors: Access to skilled medical professionals, top-tier healthcare services and therapies is vital to senior well-being. Your health is your greatest wealth, so examine the quality and availability of services.

Resident Cheers: You want to join a community where residents and their families rave about the vibrant culture and quality of care. Do your CCRC homework by researching their reputation, and seeking reviews and testimonials from current residents and their families.

A Commitment to Excellence Matters

For quality CCRCs, adherence to global standards of excellence and a proactive approach to incorporating feedback for program improvement is paramount – and something you should look for when researching communities. Recognition from organizations, publications and senior living research groups is often a good indicator of that quality.

Paradise Valley Estates, this year, achieved esteemed recognition from Newsweek and global research firm, Statista, as one of the leading CCRCs in the U.S. America’s top 250 Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities were named based on data from a nationwide survey with medical professionals, a survey with CCRC residents and their family members, and relevant CARF accreditations.

CARF Accreditation: Why That Gold Seal Matters

CARF^® International, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services providers, including CCRCs. Earning CARF recognition — garnered through a consultative peer-review survey process — is a significant achievement for senior living communities.

When considering CCRCs, whether for yourself or a loved one, ask about accreditation or look for those with the CARF seal. This demonstrates the community:

1. Prioritizes person-centered care, ensuring residents’ preferences, needs and goals are at the forefront of their services.
2. Commits to resident safety and well-being through rigorous safety measures and protocols.
3. Maintains transparent communication with residents and their families, fostering trust and accountability.
4. Strives to provide the best possible care and services through ongoing evaluation and continually seeking ways to improve.

Paradise Valley Estates once again earned CARF accreditation after undergoing a resurvey last year. Guided by Lisa Coe, a CARF surveyor intern and our senior director of engagement and compliance, the accreditation process ensures we continuously enhance our processes, programs and services to benefit those we serve.

“Our residents and team members play a vital role in shaping our community’s success,” Lisa Coe said. “Through collaboration, innovation and creative thinking, Paradise Valley Estates will continue as the senior living community of choice, where residents not only reside but also thrive.

Plan a visit and experience what makes Paradise Valley Estates one of the nation’s top continuing care retirement communities.

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