A big part of retirement planning is deciding where you want to live, and choosing the right home is a big deal. It’s not just about square footage or amenities — it’s about peace of mind for the future. That’s why many older adults and their families are exploring Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), also known as Life Plan Communities. These communities offer a unique blend of independence, security, and support, all in one location.
But how do you know which of the many senior living options is right for you or your loved one? One easy way to get started is to take a senior living community virtual tour from the comfort of your current home. Once you’ve done some initial research online, though, you should definitely sign up for an in-person tour of any senior living community you’re interested in, and you should plan to tour more than one. Knowing what to look for and ask while you’re there can make all the difference in helping you reach a decision.
What Is a Life Plan Community?
Life plan communities, or CCRCs, offer a full spectrum of care — from independent living to assisted living/personal care to skilled nursing — so residents can “age in place” without needing to move to a new community as their health needs change. This continuity means fewer disruptive transitions, and it can significantly reduce stress for both residents and their families. Instead of scrambling to find a new care facility during a medical crisis, residents can stay in familiar surroundings with staff who already know them.
Why CCRCs Are a Smart Long-Term Choice
CCRCs are a smart investment in your future. They combine housing, health care, and lifestyle services in one predictable package, which often helps seniors maintain better health and a higher quality of life. Residents can enjoy social activities, dining options, fitness programs, and wellness support while knowing that more advanced care is available if ever needed.
But choosing the right CCRC takes more than just reading a brochure. You need to see it for yourself — and ask the right questions.
What to Look for When Touring a CCRC
Before diving into your questions, pay attention to the community’s overall environment during your tour:
- First impressions count. Is the campus clean and well maintained? Do staff greet residents warmly? Do residents seem happy and engaged?
- Atmosphere. Consider whether the culture fits your lifestyle. Does it feel active and social or quiet and relaxed? Are there clubs, outings, and learning opportunities?
- Accessibility and layout. Are the facilities easy to navigate for those with mobility challenges? Are apartments well lit and spacious?
Also consider dining services, common spaces, and outdoor areas. Ask if you can eat a meal during your visit or attend a community event. This will help you get a feel for everyday life there.
Essential Questions to Ask When Touring a Retirement Home
Bringing a list of questions ensures you won’t forget to ask about key topics. Here are some of the most important:
1. What Levels of Care Are Offered On-site?
Make sure the CCRC provides the full continuum of living styles — independent living, assisted living/personal care, memory care, and skilled nursing. Ask how transitions between levels of care are handled.
2. What Does the Contract Include and What Does it Cost?
Contracts vary widely. Some are Type A (Lifecare), which includes long-term care at little or no increase in monthly cost. Others are Type B (modified) or Type C (fee-for-service). Ask for a breakdown of entrance fees, monthly fees, and what happens to those costs if your health needs change.
3. Are There Services Available for Future Health Conditions, Such as Dementia or Mobility Loss?
You’ll want to know how equipped the community is to care for you if your needs evolve. Ask about memory care units, rehab services, and in-home assistance.
4. What Happens if I Run Out of Money?
Some nonprofit CCRCs offer financial assistance or benevolence funds. Ask if there’s a guarantee you can stay even if your financial situation changes.
5. What Are the Staffing Levels and Qualifications?
A high staff-to-resident ratio often indicates better care. Ask about staff training, certifications, and turnover rates.
6. What Is the Process for Medical Emergencies?
Is there 24/7 access to health care? How quickly can residents receive urgent care? Is there an on-site clinic or do residents maintain their own doctors off-campus?
7. Can I Personalize My Living Space?
Find out if you can bring your own furniture, paint the walls, or modify the unit to meet your preferences or accessibility needs.
8. What’s Included in the Monthly Fee?
Does it cover meals, housekeeping, transportation, utilities, or activities? Are there additional charges for some services?
9. What Are the Dining Options Like?
Ask about meal plans, dietary accommodations, hours of operation, and whether residents have input into menu planning.
10. What Do Residents Say?
Request to speak with residents or family members to hear their honest feedback.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Keep an eye out for these red flags:
- Lack of transparency about fees or services
- High staff turnover or negative online reviews
- Outdated facilities or poor cleanliness
- Unhappy residents or restricted access to them during your visit
Take Your Time — and Take Notes
Bring a notebook, take pictures, and don’t hesitate to schedule follow-up visits. Consider making a checklist to compare communities side by side. CCRCs are a long-term commitment; doing your homework now can help ensure you or your loved one feels comfortable, supported, and secure for years to come.
Residents in CCRCs often enjoy better health outcomes and more social engagement than those in other care models. But the benefits only come when you find the right fit — so ask questions, trust your instincts, and plan for the future with care.
Live Your Best Life With Chapel Pointe
Chapel Pointe is a faith-based continuing care retirement community. We commit each day to serving and enhancing the quality of life for people aged 62 and older in Central Pennsylvania, offering amenities and social programs to boost our residents’ mental, physical, and spiritual health. We’re honored that our greater community sees the servant-heart of our nonprofit organization and consistently votes Chapel Pointe “The Best of Cumberland County.”
We know that preparing for a move to a CCRC involves many important questions and steps, and we’re here to help! Learn more by joining us for an event.
Nestled in eight beautifully landscaped acres in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, our welcoming campus is filled with interesting places to explore and amenities that make life easy, enjoyable, and centered on each individual. You’ll enjoy a wide variety of social brain-boosting activities and events, including movies, concerts, dinner gatherings, lawn games, game nights, church groups, and more.
Contact us to learn more about our community wellness offerings and to get information about living your best life at Chapel Pointe!