It’s perfectly normal for older loved ones to need extra assistance or support as they age. As time goes by, you may need to rethink your or your aging parent’s living situation. Therefore, it’s essential to educate yourself about available support services. This can help guide you in selecting the best living arrangement for your or your family member’s situation.
In this article, we’ll discuss the continuum of care in senior living, including how to decide if a continuum of care model is appropriate for you and how to choose a community that best suits your specific needs and circumstances.
What Is the Continuum of Care?
Families often ask, What does continuum of care mean? Broadly speaking, it refers to the spectrum of support and health care services a person may need throughout their aging journey. Continuum of care communities usually offer a full range of senior living options on one campus, so residents can receive coordinated support and care as their needs change, without having to move.
The first levels, active adult living or independent living, is typically designed for older adults seeking a welcoming community with plenty of social and recreational opportunities. When a person starts to need additional support, like help with activities of daily living (ADLs), they may transition into assisted living, which offers 24/7 access to caregiver support.
In addition, some continuum of care communities include skilled nursing or on-site health care services to support residents’ medical needs. You may also encounter dedicated memory care neighborhoods that are specifically designed to support individuals with memory impairments, like Alzheimer’s and dementia. Some communities provide hospice services, offering compassionate end-of-life care and support for those with advanced chronic conditions.
Common Living Options in a Continuum of Care Community
Continuum of care communities are often an excellent choice for seniors and families seeking long-term, consistent support, no matter what the future brings.
Here are some key services they might provide:
- Active Adult: Active adult living is geared towards older adults who want to enjoy a fun-filled lifestyle with like-minded neighbors, without the added responsibility of home upkeep. They’re sometimes called 55+ neighborhoods or 55+ communities, and they’re often a great option for older adults who manage their daily routines independently.
- Independent Living: Independent living is primarily designed for older individuals looking to enjoy maintenance-free living in a welcoming community. You’ll find a variety of accommodations and floor plans, convenient access to modern amenities, a wide range of enriching activities and programs, and plenty of opportunities to socialize — helping make life more comfortable and enjoyable for residents. While employees may assist with tasks like yard work or light housekeeping, independent living may not be ideal for someone who needs ongoing support.
- Assisted Living: In assisted living, residents live in their own private or semi-private apartments, with 24/7 caregiver support and plenty of activities and programs to enjoy. A person in assisted living may benefit from assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing, toileting, or help getting dressed, while continuing to live life on their own terms. This option can be ideal for someone who needs extra help in their day-to-day routine but does not require ongoing support or supervision.
- Memory Care: Memory care neighborhoods are specifically designed to offer a secure and comfortable environment for individuals living with cognitive conditions like Alzheimer’s or dementia. They typically feature shared living areas with large windows, secure outdoor areas to allow residents to move around safely without wandering, and structured programs to help support residents’ unique cognitive needs and improve their quality of life.
- Respite Care: Respite care services give caregivers the chance to take temporary breaks or manage other responsibilities, while ensuring their loved ones continue to receive the care and support they need. This arrangement is especially helpful for adult children or family caregivers supporting their aging parents, as it allows them to step away for a short time without worrying about their loved one’s well-being.
- Skilled Nursing: Skilled nursing offers a high level of medical care, similar to what you’d find in a hospital. As an individual’s medical needs progress, they may transition to this level of care. You’ll find medical professionals, including doctors, registered nurses, and therapists, who provide health care services as needed.
- Hospice: It can be a devastating experience when a loved one is diagnosed with a terminal illness. Hospice services are designed to provide compassionate end-of-life care for individuals with chronic conditions, such as advanced diabetes or chronic liver failure. Caregivers and professionals may assist in relieving pain, managing symptoms, and supporting families through difficult moments.
The Benefits of Continuum of Care Communities
You may ask, why is continuum of care important? Moving into a continuum of care senior living community may offer many valuable benefits for a senior and their family, including:
- Aging in One Place: Moving can be a frustrating experience at any age. Having access to a full continuum of care means you or your family member won’t have to move to a new community as needs change. Instead, you can continue to receive the right support, surrounded by the same friendly faces.
- Stronger Social Connections: Continuum of care in senior living allows residents to build lasting friendships. Whether it’s enjoying morning walks with a neighbor or celebrating birthdays together, keeping the same surroundings allows residents to enjoy deeper, meaningful connections.
- Peace of Mind for Families: We naturally want the best for our aging parents. Choosing a community that offers a continuum of care can help address a senior’s current and potential future needs, offering a sense of reassurance for their family and loved ones.
- Consistent Support: Sometimes, a loved one’s needs or health situation can change when you least expect it. Having access to multiple levels of care ensures you or your family member continues to receive the right support throughout the aging journey.
Who Is a Good Fit for a Full Continuum of Care Community
Before you decide whether a continuum of care senior living community is right for you, it’s often a good idea to carefully consider your or your aging parent’s needs. Below is an overview of who might benefit most from a continuum of care community:
- Seniors who don’t want to worry about moving to a different community again if their needs change
- Older adults in good health now, but who want to plan ahead for future care needs
- Aging couples who wish to continue living alongside each other, even if one partner requires more support
- Families seeking a single, long-term care option for every stage of their loved one’s journey
- Seniors who want to remain close to friends and neighbors over time
- Individuals with progressive health conditions, such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or other chronic illnesses, who may eventually need more specialized support
Who Is Not a Good Fit for a Full Continuum of Care Community
While continuum of care in senior living offers a perfect solution for many seniors and families, it may not be ideal for every situation, including:
- Senior Prefers Home Care: Some seniors strongly prefer care at home, where they can remain close to family. In these situations, a continuum of care community may not be a good fit.
- Short-Term Needs: A continuum of care community often works best for seniors and families seeking ongoing, long-term support. If someone needs assistance over a short period, say, to recover from illness or surgery, a short-term care option may make more sense.
- Advanced Medical Conditions: While most continuum of care communities offer health care services, they may not be ideal for individuals who already require intensive medical care, like advanced dialysis treatment or ventilator support. In those cases, it might be best to seek specialized medical care for a specific condition.
How Much Does a Full Continuum of Care Community Cost
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Senior Living Compared To Staying In Place
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(The National Average Cost Is $3,360-5,760 Monthly*)
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*This information is intended to aid in the evaluation and the decision-making process related to senior living alternatives. It is based on information and assumptions provided by you and information compiled from multiple accredited sources for comparison purposes. The calculations and comparisons provided should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice. In addition, such information should not be relied upon as the only source of information.
The cost of a full continuum of care community can vary widely depending on the type of senior living model. Many communities offer a full continuum of care — including independent living, assisted living, and memory care — with monthly rent and service fees only, allowing residents to pay as their needs change over time.
It’s important to note that a full continuum of care does not necessarily mean a community is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). CCRCs are a specific type of senior living community that typically require a large upfront entrance fee in addition to ongoing monthly fees. These communities operate under long-term contracts that guarantee access to higher levels of care, which significantly impacts overall cost. Because of this structure, CCRCs generally fall into the following contract types:
- Life Care Contracts (Type A): Entrance fees for these contracts are usually very high, often ranging from $300,000 to more than $1 million. Monthly service fees typically range between $3,500 and $5,000. While this type of contract seems expensive upfront, monthly costs usually remain unchanged or only change slightly, even if you later require more assistance or care. Type A contracts can be a viable option for seniors and families seeking long-term support without the burden of rising care costs.
- Modified or Fee-for-Service Contracts (Type B or C): Entrance fees are often lower, usually between $100,000 and $300,000, with monthly fees starting around $2,500 to $4,000. If your health needs increase, your costs may rise to reflect the additional support and care you receive.
- Rental Contracts: Rental agreements usually do not require a large entrance fee, or may ask for only a small deposit. Monthly rents often range between $3,000 and $5,000 for independent living, with higher costs later if you require assisted living or nursing care. While this can feel more affordable in the beginning, you may pay more out of pocket as your care needs change.
Monthly fees usually include meals, utilities, housekeeping, social activities, and health care services. However, certain things may not be covered, including prescription drugs, personal items, or specialized outside medical services. It’s important to review the contract carefully so you understand exactly what to expect.
However, the total cost can vary significantly depending on:
- The location of the community
- The type of contract the community offers
- Preferred accommodation option
- The services included (meals, housekeeping, and transportation)
- The level of assistance and health care support needed
How to Choose the Right Community
Choosing the right full continuum of care senior living community is a significant life decision. After all, it may be where you spend much of your retirement.
Here are a few steps to help guide you along in your decision-making process:
- Think About Current and Future Needs: The first step is to examine your health and lifestyle now, and imagine what they could be like in five to ten years. For example, consider activities you enjoy or any medical needs that might require extra support down the road.
- Compare Contract Types and Costs: Full continuum of care communities often involve detailed contracts. Review the entrance fees, monthly service fees, and contract terms carefully. Ask about what’s included, what’s not, and how costs may change if your needs change over time. It may be helpful to have a trusted family member or advisor look over the contract with you.
- Tour the Community in Person: Often, the best way to know what it’s like to live in a community is to see it yourself. Schedule a tour or even show up unannounced. Ask for a tour of the living areas, or to join a meal or an activity to get a feel of what it’s really like to live there.
- Review Health Care Options: You’ll also want to ensure the community is equipped to meet your or your loved one’s potential future needs without requiring another move. Ask how quickly support is adjusted if a resident’s needs change. Are caregivers and medical professionals available 24/7?
- Ask About Lifestyle and Amenities: Moving into a senior living community doesn’t mean you have to stop being yourself. Before making a decision, think about your day-to-day life and what matters most to you — whether that’s fitness programs, social opportunities, culinary options, or simply places you enjoy visiting, and prioritize communities that offer those specific things.
- Understand Exit Policies: Contract exit terms can vary widely between different communities. Before committing, it’s often wise to carefully review the details and ask questions about cancellation policies, like what happens if a resident leaves the community.
Life at StoryPoint Group Communities
At StoryPoint Group communities, our residents’ needs are at the heart of everything we do. You might be looking for a relaxed lifestyle with convenient access to modern amenities and a fun-packed activity calendar. Perhaps you could use additional help with activities of daily living (ADLs). Or maybe you’re simply looking for a home where you’ll truly feel like you belong.
No matter where you are on your journey, our goal is to help you make the most of every day, your way. To learn more about life with us or just to say hello, feel free to contact us or give us a call at 1-844-275-9990.
