Selecting a life plan community – Discipleship and Leadership Formation

A Life Plan Community is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC).
Why is the name transitioning?
1. Baby boomers do not view retirement like their predecessors. They are planners who are self-directed and want a future full of possibilities. They are planning for the life they want to lead.
2. A Life Plan Community allows “planning” and “living” to merge. Having a plan in place allows for living life to the fullest.
3. Although care remains an integral component of our services, we offer a wider offering for today’s seniors.

Location: Is the facility close to family and friends who will be visiting?
Cost: What is included in cost of care? How are extra items billed? What is the price difference between private and semi-private rooms?
Facility certification & financial matters: Is the facility certified by Medicare and Medicaid? How long has the facility been certified?
Specialty care available: Does the facility have an Alzheimer’s unit or short-term rehab wing?
Preventive care: Does the facility make sure residents get preventive care to keep them healthy?
Cleanliness & safety: Does the facility have a clean and safe environment?
Activities: What kinds of activities are offered each day for residents? Are there outings that take place for the residents?
Religious needs: Does the Life Plan Community offer religious support?
Employees: How are employees selected? Are they screened for drug use, criminal records and other potential problems?
Food: How does the food taste? Do the residents get a choice in what they eat? Are the meals served hot if food is supposed to be hot and cold if food is supposed to be cole?

Ask your doctor, family, friends, neighbors and clergy what experiences they have with long-term care.
Ask hospital discharge planners or social workers for recommendations especially if you’re in the hospital.
Contact a social service agency long term care ombudsman.
Contact your local Agency on Aging for recommendations.