A continuing care community has a few very distinctive differences from an independent living community. While neither is really better than the other, there are times when one is a better choice than the other. Below you will learn a little about these differences and when you might prefer one over the other.

Differences Between Independent Living Communities and CCRC

Independent Living Communities

This title actually covers a lot of ground. Ultimately it refers to housing designed for older adults who are still living lives filled with purpose and wish to continue to live independently. However, while they desire to maintain in their independence, they may wish to live in an environment where they have easy access to other older adults, life enriching activities and adventures, and easy access to fitness and other wellness activities.

Independent living communities, for the most part, provide all of this and more. More importantly, the homes and apartments in these communities are designed to provide easy access to seniors as their needs evolve. They will include wider hallways, safety equipped bathrooms, lower cabinets and countertops in kitchens – to accommodate wheelchair access if necessary, and more.

That’s just in the apartments. The real value of independent living comes with the people, socialization opportunities, and planned activities throughout the day. These will provide opportunities to connect with other people with shared interests and get to know your neighbors.

For the most part, independent living communities do not offer transitional care, at least on the same campus, to assisted living or nursing care.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC)

As the name implies, these are communities that engage in continuing care – care that goes beyond independent living. Continuing care communities are extremely community oriented. The premise is that older adults only need to make one decision related to community and that they can stay in that community as long as they like – even if their needs for care change during that time.

In most cases, the transition from independent to assisted living then to nursing care, will require a move to a different wing, floor, or perhaps building. However, the adult will remain on the property and within the community they’ve worked so hard to become a part of as independent living residents.

This is especially beneficial to married couples who don’t want the heartache and hassle of being forced to live in two different communities. Choosing a continuing care community will allow couples to never have to face that choice.

Independent living and continuing care communities offer similar levels of care and service from staff, similar amenities, and a great atmosphere for aging successfully. The one overriding difference between the two is the idea of remaining in place as your needs evolve, which is something you can really only find in continuing care communities.

Eskaton offers a wide range of housing options and programs, including independent living and continuing care community.

Learn more and contact us today to schedule a tour.