What’s the difference between a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) and a nursing home community? Some might envision a hospital-like environment when it comes to senior living, and many will immediately think of the term ‘nursing home.’ Even though modern-day senior living options — such as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) — have come a long way from the traditional nursing homes of the past, there is often still a misconception between the two.
What is a Nursing Home Community?
By definition, a nursing home community is a place for people who don’t need to be in a hospital but can’t be cared for at home. While nursing homes certainly do an excellent job of caring for seniors who need medical services, they primarily focus on providing generalized care in a comfortable setting.
What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community?
In contrast, a continuing care retirement community or CCRC is a senior living community that combines an active lifestyle, hospitality, and access to different levels of healthcare in one convenient location. Unlike a nursing home community, CCRCs offer a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, trained medical professionals, and rehabilitation services so residents can age in place and receive the right level of care at any given time. Residents also gain access to a broader range of on-site medical professionals — from registered nurses to occupational therapists to nutritionists — specially trained to provide personalized geriatric care.
Today’s CCRCs also offer far more than the typical nursing home, with many amenities and services designed to help residents lead a fulfilling lifestyle. With spacious living accommodations in a neighborhood-style atmosphere, enriching social programming, restaurant-style dining, engaging activities, and more for residents to enjoy, choosing a CCRC means more time, freedom, and opportunities.
Understanding what differentiates a continuing care retirement community from a nursing home community will help you compare senior living options and find the best fit for you or your loved one. Ready to start learning more about the community and care services at Grace Pointe? Contact us today, and we can answer any questions or concerns you may have or schedule a virtual tour!
