Articles & Real-Life Stories: Continuing Care Communities

Title: Options that Complement Your Lifestyle

Preview: When hearing the term “senior housing,” there is a typical misconception that this indicates institution-like facilities. However, as the Baby Boomer population has grown, so have retirement living choices. Whether one is looking for a vibrant atmosphere, financial security, long-term care or t...

Title: A 30 Year Legacy

By: Lauren Searson

Preview: As new residents of Pennswood Village in Newtown, Pa., David and Caroline Swain are not only celebrating this continuing care community’s 30th anniversary, but they plan to continue the legacy of David’s father, Henry Swain, who was the first resident to move into the community. With their impre...

Title: The Perfect Strike

By: Lauren Searson

Preview: Whether it is the sound of cheering at a Nintendo Wii bowling tournament or laughter emulating from the drama group’s audience, there is no question that the active residents of Attleboro Village, a continuing care community in Langhorne, Pa., have formed a deep sense of camaraderie. Attle...

Title: Music to Her Ears

By: Lauren Searson

Preview: On more than a dozen nights a year, the community of Cathedral Village is filled with the beautiful, soothing sounds of talented musicians, many of whom have just made their debuts at Carnegie Hall. This special occasion occurs at the hands of a group of residents that includes Elizabeth (Beth) ...

Title: Things to Look for in Senior Housing

Preview: Whether you are researching a CCRC, independent living, assisted living or a skilled nursing facility, there are several important aspects to consider. In the AARP Magazine article titled ‘Selecting Senior Housing,’ Dimitra Kessnides outlined some suggestions of things to look for in a potential...

Title: Understand Entrance Fees

By: Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)

Preview: Most CCRCs require payment of a one-time fee, usually called the entrance fee, before moving to the community. The entrance fee amount often depends on the level of care at the time of entry, type of housing chosen (with larger units requiring a larger fee), and agreement type. The entrance f...

Title: Before You Sign a Continuing Care Contract

Preview: You have finally found the community you feel is the best fit for your lifestyle and needs. Before you make this commitment, however, there are some resources you can utilize to ensure you are making the right decision. According to the website www.peoples-law.org, it is recommended that you: ...

Title: Questions to Ask About Continuing Care Retirement Community Fees

By: Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)

Preview: 1. Are there financial deposits for which I am responsible? If so, what is the refund policy if I decide not to move to the community? 2. What types of service contracts or agreements are available in this community? 3. How much is the current entrance fee? Are there plans to increase the amou...

Title: An Adventurous Life

Preview: Dot Michener is constantly seeking adventures. And since she moved to Freedom Village Brandywine, a Continuing Care Retirement Community, she has had quite a few, including becoming a producer of the residents’ In-House TV Station. “My time here has been an exciting adventure,” said Dot, wh...

Title: A Community on the 'Move'

By: Lauren Searson

Preview: Forget the traditional red and gold hues of fall for there is another color that takes over the grounds of Kensington Park this time of year. In fact, it is all about the power of the purple at this continuing services community where residents and staff are taking a stand against Alzheimer’s. ...

Title: It's Showtime!

Preview: Excitement is building at Martins Run Senior Living Community in Media, Pa., where a true Renaissance is underway with the addition of a new, state-of-the-art Energy Club and completely redesigned apartments, dining rooms and public areas. Residents of the nearly 30-year Delaware County, Pa. fix...

Title: Should You Put Your Retirement Plans on Hold?

By: Nancy Nolan

Preview: You were thinking about making a move to a Continuing Care Retirement Community. You were really, seriously thinking about moving from your home of 25 or 30 years, into one of those ‘maintenance free’ environments where activities and companionship abound. The fact that health care support is a...

Title: Her Biggest Fan

By: Lauren Searson

Preview: With a breathtaking view of the Chesapeake Bay behind her, Joan Epstein sits at her window paging through Kathie Lee Gifford’s latest book. There is no question Joan is Kathie’s biggest fan, but it is actually quite the opposite, for Joan is her mother and the inspiring woman she has thanked in ...

Title: Ready...Set...Go!

By: Lauren Searson

Preview: There are many communities and lifestyle options available to you in the Delaware Valley area. However, during the uncertainty of our current economic situation, how do you accurately plan for your future residential and health care needs? Carol Burnham, a partner and Director of Sales at Whitela...

Title: Teacher Knows Best

By: Lauren Searson

Preview: As a teacher for 40 years, there was nothing Sarah West enjoyed more than watching her students grow and gain necessary skills. Now, thanks to the thriving environment she has found at her current home, Cathedral Village, a continuing care community in Philadelphia, Pa., she has been able to mai...