The Importance of CCRCs With Direct Admissions to Assisted Living

When planning for your or a loved one’s future, it can be overwhelming to choose between all the senior living options that are out there. You’ll find stand-alone independent/retirement living, assisted living, and memory care communities – or, there are Life Plan Communities, which can also be referred to as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs). These communities provide different levels of care and lifestyles all in one place.

It’s important to note that although Life Plan Communities offer higher levels of care, not all of them allow for direct admittance into these levels. This means that most Life Plan residents are required to move into independent living before transitioning to assisted living or memory care.

The good news is, at Lake Forest Place, we accept direct admittances into supportive care at The Highlands Assisted Living. Let’s dive deeper into the details of Life Plan Communities and the benefits of direct admission below.

What is a Life Plan Community vs. an Assisted Living Community?

Life Plan Communities offer independent living and a continuum of care all in one community. Typically, residents pay a one-time entrance fee and an ongoing monthly fee that cover living expenses, dining, daily activities, amenities, and health services if ever short- or long-term care is needed. These communities also offer different contract types to meet specific resident needs and budgets.

A stand-alone assisted living community only offers one level of support. Assisted living residents receive help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), like dressing, bathing, grooming, and eating, and benefit from activities designed specifically for those who are unable to fully live independently. 

To summarize, the difference between Life Plan and assisted living communities is that Life Plan Communities offers multiple lifestyles and healthcare services, while assisted living communities only offer assisted living services. 

Levels of care at Lake Forest Place

At Lake Forest Place, residents have the choice of moving in as independent living residents or directly into assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitation. This is unique to our community as many do not offer these direct admissions to higher levels of care. 

Here, assisted living residents find a true sense of community and independence in accessible and spacious apartment homes, with access to the same activities and amenities as independent living residents. We believe that just because an individual needs extra support doesn’t mean they should stop living life to the fullest.

The cost of a Life Plan Community vs. Assisted Living Communities

The cost of moving into a Life Plan Community holds much more value than moving to a stand-alone assisted living community. Why? If ever you need additional healthcare services, you’ll remain in the same community without having to relocate residences. Additional medical costs will be covered by the contract you select upon entrance, and many of your worries about daily life will diminish.

Assisted living communities may require an entrance fee and ongoing monthly fees, but if memory care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitation services are ever needed, the resident will need to relocate. 

Why is a Life Plan Community with direct admissions beneficial?

At Lake Forest Place, you’ll receive the care you need when you need it. Unfortunately, not all older adults have the luxury of moving into independent living before transitioning to other levels of care. 

Residents of all abilities are welcome to move directly into the care level they need in order to live the highest quality of life possible. It’s our promise to you that you or a loved one will always find support with the encouragement to remain independent and engaged.

Understand the highlights of moving directly to The Highlands Assisted Living at Lake Forest Place when you download our handy guide.

Discover a worry-free future with continuing care at Lake Forest Place

Come tour The Highlands Assisted Living and see for yourself how residents thrive with the perfect combination of independence and support. We ensure you or your loved one will remain happy, healthy, and active in a community that offers endless possibilities for fulfillment.