Is a Life Plan Community (CCRC) Right for You?

Finding the right senior living option is an important decision that impacts your future security, lifestyle and well-being. For those who want peace of mind, a Life Plan Community, also known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), offers a full continuum of care in a vibrant, community-focused environment.

At Heritage Community of Kalamazoo, residents enjoy the benefits of independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care — all within the same campus. This guide explores the advantages of Life Plan Communities, what to expect, and whether this type of senior living is the right fit for you.

What Is a Life Plan Community?

A Life Plan Community, or CCRC, is a senior living option that offers multiple levels of care on the same campus. Residents often move into independent living, with the assurance that additional care — such as assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing — will be available if needed.

This model allows seniors to plan ahead, knowing they won’t have to move if their health needs change. Heritage Community of Kalamazoo provides personalized support and a continuum of care, so residents can transition seamlessly as needed.

Life Plan Communities Provide:

• Independent living with maintenance-free residences
• Assisted living for additional support with activities of daily living
• Memory care for those living with dementia or Alzheimer’s
• Skilled nursing care for rehabilitation and medical needs
• A long-term plan for evolving health care needs

This structure ensures that residents enjoy a vibrant, active lifestyle with access to care as they age — without needing to relocate.

What Senior Living Options Are Out There?

Before deciding on a Life Plan Community, it’s essential to understand other senior living options.

55-Plus Community

• Independent living with minimal services
• Ideal for active seniors who don’t require care
• No guaranteed health care services

Stand-Alone Assisted Living

• Provides support with daily activities like bathing, dressing and medication management
• Typically doesn’t offer skilled nursing or long-term health care

Stand-Alone Skilled Nursing

• Short-term rehabilitation and long-term medical care
• Not a residential living environment — primarily focused on more intensive medical needs, such as cardiac, post-surgical or IV care

Home Care

• Support provided at home by caregivers
• Can be costly and challenging as care needs increase

Life Plan Community

• Combines all levels of care in one location
• Offers long-term stability with an engaging, community-based lifestyle
• Provides peace of mind for both residents and family members

Heritage Community of Kalamazoo ensures that residents have access to comprehensive care while enjoying a social and fulfilling lifestyle.

Why Choose Community Living?

Moving to a Life Plan Community is about more than securing health care — it’s about embracing a lifestyle that enhances well-being.

The Power of Community Living

• Built-in social network: Opportunities for friendships and engagement
• Access to amenities: Fitness centers, dining, entertainment and cultural activities
• No home maintenance: Staff handles all upkeep and repairs
• Sense of security: Staff is available 24/7 for assistance

At Heritage Community of Kalamazoo, residents enjoy a strong sense of belonging in a welcoming, supportive environment.

What’s Included at a Life Plan Community?

Life Plan Communities offer various services and amenities catering to older adults’ needs and preferences.

Here’s What Is Typically Included:

• Restaurant-style dining with chef-prepared meals
• Housekeeping and maintenance
• Fitness and wellness programs
• Transportation services
• Social and educational programs
• Access to on-site health care services

Heritage Community of Kalamazoo provides a holistic living experience, ensuring residents have everything they need to thrive.

What Do Life Plan Communities Cost?

Life Plan Communities require an upfront entrance fee and monthly fees, which cover housing, services and access to health care.

Your Current Expenses May Include:

• Home mortgage, property taxes or rent
• Utilities and home maintenance
• Groceries and dining
• Transportation costs
• Home security
• Future health care expenses

A Life Plan Community bundles these expenses into one predictable payment, making financial planning easier.

How Do Life Plan Community Fees Work?

Life Plan Communities offer different financial contract options, which affect the cost and level of care coverage.

Types of Fees

• Entrance Fee: A one-time upfront cost to secure residency
• Monthly Fee: Covers amenities, services and ongoing care

Contract Types

1. Type A (Life Care Contract)

• Higher entrance fee, but long-term care costs are included
• Offers the most predictable health care costs

1. Type B (Modified Contract)

• Includes a set amount of health care services
• If more care is needed, costs may increase

1. Type C (Fee-for-Service Contract)

• Lowest upfront cost, but care is paid for at market rates

Heritage Community of Kalamazoo offers transparent pricing options so residents can choose the plan that best fits their financial goals.

When Should I Move to a Life Plan Community?

Many seniors wait too long before making the transition to a Life Plan Community, missing out on the benefits of an active, supportive environment.

Don’t Wait Until You “Need to Go.”

Moving when you’re still independent enables you to enjoy all the community has to offer rather than waiting until care is necessary.

Reactive Decisions Can Be Stressful for Family Members.

When a sudden health crisis occurs, family members often have to make quick, emotional decisions about care. Planning ahead prevents stress and ensures a smooth transition.

Wait Too Long, and It Could Be Too Late.

Some Life Plan Communities have health eligibility requirements for new residents. Moving sooner rather than later ensures you qualify for independent living while securing access to future care.

At Heritage Community of Kalamazoo, residents take charge of their future while enjoying an engaging, worry-free lifestyle.

Is a Life Plan Community Right for You?

At Heritage Community of Kalamazoo, we believe retirement is the perfect time to live your best life. As the only locally owned and operated nonprofit Life Plan Community in the area, we provide countless opportunities to explore your passions, connect with others and enjoy the vibrant culture of downtown Kalamazoo. Take the first step toward an extraordinary lifestyle — contact us today to schedule your visit.

Featured Image: Davor Geber / Shutterstock