Today’s seniors are living longer, fuller lives. They’re more active, health-conscious, and feeling younger than ever. To meet the needs and desires of this vibrant Baby Boomer generation, the senior living industry is evolving. Many retirement communities are offering seniors a more independent lifestyle with opportunities for growth and wellness. They’re also providing a safety net of security with available senior health care services if their needs change. In other words, a Life Plan Community.
The Benefits of a Life Plan Community
So, what is a Life Plan Community? Well, you’re probably familiar with the term Continuing Care Retirement Community or CCRC. They’re one and the same. Many communities have adopted the Life Plan Community name because it better reflects what today’s communities are – a place to thrive and enjoy an independent lifestyle while having a secure plan for the future.
You see, of all the senior living options available today, a Life Plan Retirement Community gives you the freedom to live your life as you choose, on your terms. They provide a maintenance-free lifestyle so you can trade-in your to-do list full of pesky chores like housekeeping, home repairs and yardwork for all the things you want to do.
Rekindle lifelong interests. Discover new passions. Travel. Stay involved in the community. Socialize with friends old and new. Savor healthy dining options. Yes, you can finally pick up a paintbrush and enjoy a class in watercolors instead of painting a bathroom or kitchen.
Best of all, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing you’ll have access to a full continuum of health care services without having to move to a new community. If your health needs change, you can move seamlessly from independent living to assisted living, memory care, or our 5-star-rated skilled nursing and rehabilitation, all right here on our nature-filled campus. This is a great option for couples who require different levels of care as they age together.
However, not all Life Plan Communities or CCRCs offer the same levels of care, so make sure you do your research!
More Benefits to Enjoy
Many Life Plan Communities are considered “all-inclusive” and may offer first-class amenities and services that can make life more comfortable, easier and fun. From an array of residential options and floor plans to match your needs and taste to enriching programs that open your world to new possibilities, a community may provide:
- Fitness classes with a certified fitness trainer
- Wellness programs
- Healthy dining options
- Courtyards and walking trails
- Art classes
- Lifelong learning, social, cultural and recreational programs
- Guest suite for overnight visitors
- Beauty/barber salon
- Library
- Media and technology center
- Transportation for medical appointments and shopping trips
- Volunteer opportunities
- Worship services
- Pet-friendly campus
Additionally, with The Village at McLean’s expansion breaking ground in the spring of 2020, you’ll find beautiful new apartment homes – many with golf course views – first-class dining options, a state-of-the-art fitness center, an indoor warm water therapeutic pool and more. Plus, all residents receive a social membership to Hop Meadow Country Club.
What to Look For in a Life Plan Community
Moving to a Life Plan Retirement Community is a big decision and no two are the same. Visit communities and do your research. Select, don’t settle! You’ll want to get it right the first time, so think about what’s important to you before you make a move. The more you know about your options, the easier your decision will be. It’s always a good idea to make a checklist of questions to ask on your community visit. Below are some relevant questions to ask and things to look for to help you started:
- Is the community clean and well-maintained?
- What are the entrance fee and monthly fees, and what services and amenities do they include?
- What types of contracts do they offer?
- What levels of care are offered?
- Can you talk to residents? Do they seem like people you’d want to get to know better?
- Can you sample the food?
- Do you feel comfortable with the community culture?
- What types of life enrichment programs are offered?
- Can friends or family stay for a visit?
- Does the staff seem to genuinely care?
- Does the community feel like home?
Get movin’ and enjoy the life you love!
If you can picture yourself in a Life Plan Community like McLean, sharing time with friends, pursuing your interests, not worrying about home maintenance or what’s for dinner, and have a secure plan for your future, you’re halfway there. To learn more about life at McLean, give us a call at 860-658-3700. We’ll be happy to talk you through your options and answer any questions you may have.