Planning for your future means thinking about more than just where you’ll live, it’s about creating a lifestyle that brings you comfort and peace of mind for years to come. If you’re exploring senior living options in New Hampshire, a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) could be the perfect fit. These communities offer both independence and the reassurance of care, all in one place.
At RiverWoods, we know this decision is a big one, and we’re here to help you understand what a CCRC is, the benefits it offers, and how to choose the right community for you.
What is a CCRC?
A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is a senior living community that offers a range of living and care options on the same campus. This means you can move in while living independently and transition to higher levels of care, such as assisted living, memory support, or nursing care, if your needs change over time.
Each RiverWoods community offers different levels of care:
- RiverWoods Exeter: Assisted living, memory support, nursing care
- RiverWoods Durham: Assisted living, memory support, enhanced assisted living
- RiverWoods Manchester: Assisted living, memory support, enhanced assisted living
This “age in place” model gives you the freedom to enjoy your retirement without worrying about where you’ll go if your care needs shift.
What Are the Main Benefits of Living in a CCRC?
Life in a CCRC comes with many advantages, from practical conveniences to priceless peace of mind.
A Full Continuum of Care
You can stay in your chosen community no matter how your needs change. CCRCs offer independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing care, all in one place.
Maintenance-Free Living
Say goodbye to home repairs, yard work, and snow shoveling. Your time is yours to enjoy, whether that means traveling, picking up a new hobby, or simply relaxing with a good book.
An Active Lifestyle
From fitness classes and day trips to art workshops and volunteer opportunities, activities in a CCRC are built around resident interests. Plus, you’ll have easy access to New Hampshire’s natural beauty, from hiking trails to scenic drives.
Financial Peace of Mind
CCRC contracts often include long-term care coverage, helping protect you from rising healthcare costs. This stability makes it easier to plan ahead and preserve your assets.
Built-In Community
Living in a CCRC means one important thing – you’re never alone! – you’ll be surrounded by neighbors and friends. Whether you’re sharing a meal, joining a club, or just chatting in the common rooms, you’ll always have companionship close by.
Our Insider’s Guide provides even more detail and valuable information into what CCRC senior living looks like, and answers common questions seniors have when researching.
Understanding CCRC Contract Types
Not all CCRCs are the same, and contract types can vary. Knowing your options is key to making the right financial choice for your situation. Most CCRC contracts include your housing, meal plan, maintenance services, activities, and access to care, though the costs and coverage differ. At RiverWoods, you’ll find three main types:
Type A (All-Inclusive)
Type A contracts offer the highest level of insurance and typically include:
- Unlimited access to all levels of care
- No increase in monthly fees if your care needs change
- Often includes a 50-90% refundable entrance fee option
- Highest entrance fee, but the greatest long-term financial protection
Type B (Defined Insurance)
Type B contracts provide a middle ground option:
- Lower entrance fee that Type A
- A set amount of long-term care coverage
- Monthly fees increase when you move to higher levels of care
- Discounted healthcare rates compared to the market
- Refundable options available
Type C (Fee-for-Service)
Type C contracts offer the most flexibility:
- Often no entrance fee required
- Lowest monthly service fees
- Month-to-month rental options sometimes available
- Pay market rate for care services when needed
- No guarantee of care availability
What Does Living Look Like in a CCRC?
Life in a CCRC is all about choice and balance – independence when you want it, support when you need it. At RiverWoods, residents enjoy:
- Maintenance-free apartments and various floor plans designed for aging in place
- Flexible meal plans with restaurant-style dining
- Resident-led programs, clubs, and activities
- On-campus wellness clinics and medication management
- Smooth, stress-free transitions to higher levels of care
- Amenities like libraries, fitness centers, walking trails, and common spaces
Life at a CCRC is built around you, your interests, preferences, and needs. Whether you’re looking to stay active, or needing some assistance with activities of daily living, you can rest easy knowing that care is always close at hand.
Planning Your Future at a CCRC
Choosing a CCRC means choosing a lifestyle that’s designed for both the present and the future. With maintenance-free living, a full continuum of care, and an active, welcoming community, CCRC senior living in New Hampshire offers a retirement experience that gives you both freedom and security.
At RiverWoods, you can enjoy all that New Hampshire has to offer, while having care and community right at your doorstep. If you’re ready to explore your options, we’d love to show you around. Contact us today to schedule a tour, meet our residents, and see firsthand what makes RiverWoods a place so many are proud to call home.