Planning for Home: Aging, Advocacy, and Housing with Dignity Part 4: The CCRC Model
Planning for Home: Aging, Advocacy, and Housing with Dignity
Part 4: The CCRC Model -- From Independence to Full Care, All in One Place
For those who want stability, security, and a plan for whatever the future holds, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) offer a powerful solution. They’re designed to provide a full spectrum of care, from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing -- all on one campus.
This model appeals to people who want to “age in place” without having to move as their health needs change. It can also provide peace of mind to families, knowing that care is available when needed.
Let’s take a closer look at how CCRCs work and compare two standout examples in Washington State: Panorama in Lacey and Heron's Key in Gig Harbor.
What Is a CCRC?
A Continuing Care Retirement Community typically includes:
- Independent living units (apartments, cottages, duplexes)
- Assisted living for those who need daily support
- Skilled nursing and rehabilitation services
- Memory care units (in some CCRCs)
- Dining, housekeeping, fitness programs, and social activities
- A long-term care contract, often with a substantial entrance fee
The idea is simple: you move in while you’re still healthy and active, and when your needs change, your care evolves, without needing to relocate.
Why People Choose CCRCs
- Predictability: Care is part of the plan, not a last-minute scramble.
- Continuity: You stay in the same community as your health evolves.
- Community: Social connection, activities, and a sense of belonging.
- Security: Access to medical care, often with 24/7 on-site staff.
Comparing Two Options: Panorama vs. Heron’s Key
Panorama – Lacey, WA
- One of the oldest and largest CCRCs in the region.
- Known for a diverse range of housing styles, from apartments to standalone homes, offering flexibility for different preferences.
- Strong cultural, creative, and educational programs designed to keep residents engaged.
- Reputation and community focus make it feel like a small town within a town: complete with libraries, art studios, fitness centers, and even its own TV station.
- Extensive on-site care options, including convalescent care and memory care.
- Entrance and monthly fees vary by unit and care level.
Heron’s Key -- Gig Harbor, WA
- A newer, modern CCRC with a Life Care contract model, offering guaranteed care with predictable costs for the future.
- Emphasis on sustainability and contemporary design, creating a more design-forward environment.
- Offers independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing with an upscale feel and high-end amenities.
- Beautiful setting near the harbor with access to a walkable downtown, appealing to those seeking both care and lifestyle.
- The Life Care contract ensures that future care costs are predictable, making it a good option for those who want a long-term, comprehensive solution.
What to Know Before You Commit
- Entrance fees can range from $100,000 to $1 million+, depending on the CCRC and the type of unit.
- Monthly fees continue throughout your residency, with varying rates depending on your level of care.
- Some contracts lock in future care costs, while others may adjust based on need or inflation.
- It’s essential to understand refund policies, the financial strength of the operator, and your legal rights as a resident.
Who Thrives in a CCRC?
- Individuals or couples who want to make a one-time move and plan ahead
- Those who value community and structure
- People without children or close family nearby, who want a built-in safety net
- Planners who are thinking 10–20 years ahead, not just about “right now”
Final Thought
CCRCs are not for everyone, but for some, they’re the gold standard: a clear, comprehensive plan for aging with dignity, care, and community. If you're someone who prefers not to rely on family, or wants to make major decisions now rather than later, this model can offer peace of mind and purpose.
In Part 5, we’ll look at what it means to age without children or trusted family, and how to build your own circle of support: legal, social, and financial.