As seniors explore housing options, they often encounter both Active Adult Communities and Life Plan Communities (also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities or CCRCs). Understanding the differences between these two types of communities is essential for making an informed decision about where to live.
Active Adult Communities
Active Adult Communities cater to individuals typically aged 55 and older who are looking for a vibrant, independent lifestyle. These communities focus on providing a wide range of recreational and social activities, such as fitness centers, golf courses, swimming pools, and clubs. Residents live in single-family homes, townhouses, or apartments designed with older adults in mind. These communities emphasize maintaining an active lifestyle and often have minimal healthcare services, relying on residents to arrange their own medical care and assistance as needed.
Life Plan Communities
Life Plan Communities offer a continuum of care, providing various levels of support from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing care within the same community. Residents usually start in independent living and can transition to higher levels of care as their needs change without having to move to a different location. Life Plan Communities require an entrance fee and monthly fees, which cover housing, amenities, and future healthcare services. This model provides peace of mind, knowing that healthcare needs will be met as residents age.
Key Differences
Care Services
Active Adult Communities: Limited healthcare services; residents manage their own medical care.
Life Plan Communities: Comprehensive healthcare services, including assisted living and skilled nursing care.
Financial Structure
Active Adult Communities: Typically rental- or purchase-based with monthly homeowners’ association (HOA) fees.
Life Plan Communities: Require an entrance fee and monthly fees, which include future healthcare costs.
Focus
Active Adult Communities: Emphasize social and recreational activities for an active lifestyle.
Life Plan Communities: Emphasize long-term care and support, providing a secure environment for aging in place.
Choosing between an Active Adult Community and a Life Plan Community depends on individual needs, health considerations, and financial situation. Active Adult Communities are ideal for those seeking an independent and socially active lifestyle, while Life Plan Communities offer a comprehensive plan for aging in place with guaranteed access to care.
