When exploring your retirement living options, you may come across two types of retirement communities: Life Plan Communities and 55+ communities.
While both offer vibrant, active environments, each community type has unique features. Here, we’ll explore their similarities and differences and what makes a Life Plan Community like Morningside particularly appealing.
What Are Life Plan Communities and 55+ Communities?
Life Plan Communities (also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities or CCRCs) offer robust independent living with access to assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. They typically require a one-time entrance fee along with monthly fees, which ensure access to advanced levels of care if ever needed. This model gives residents and their families peace of mind, knowing that there’s a plan for future care at the community, with no disruptive move needed and no significant cost increase for care.
55+ Communities (also called active adult or age-restricted communities) are designed for seniors who are independent and seek a social lifestyle without the hassles of homeownership. These communities provide recreational, supportive environments but generally do not offer on-site healthcare services beyond independent living.
Similarities Between Life Plan and 55+ Communities
- Focus on Independence and Activity
Both Life Plan Communities and 55+ communities cater to independent, active older adults by offering maintenance-free living. Services like landscaping, repairs and general upkeep are often included, giving residents more freedom to focus on personal interests, social activities and hobbies. - Rich Social Engagement Opportunities
In both types of communities, organized events, clubs and group activities create a sense of belonging and camaraderie, which are valuable for mental and emotional well-being. From book clubs and art classes to holiday celebrations and group outings, community living includes spaces and occasions to connect with others. Friendships and supportive relationships often flourish, enhancing residents’ overall happiness and quality of life. - Resort-Style Amenities and Services
Often, communities offer life-enriching amenities. Fitness centers, swimming pools, clubhouses, dining venues and walking trails are common, along with services like housekeeping, transportation and concierge support. These features allow residents to maintain an active lifestyle in a setting designed for convenient activity. - Commitment to Health and Wellness
Both Life Plan Communities and 55+ communities emphasize the health and wellness of their residents. Activities like yoga, tai chi, group exercise classes and even on-site fitness trainers help residents stay physically active. Many communities also offer wellness seminars, health screenings and classes on nutrition, supporting a holistic approach to aging that goes beyond physical fitness. - A Secure Living Environment
Many Life Plan Communities and 55+ communities are gated and provide security measures that contribute to a safe and comfortable environment. For older adults, the feeling of security and stability that comes from knowing there’s support nearby is invaluable.
What Sets Life Plan Communities Apart – This is the important part:
While both community types offer active and social lifestyles, Life Plan Communities present a financial value plus a solid plan for lifelong care. For instance, every resident at Morningside has priority access to the adjacent health center for assisted living, memory care and long-term care in a skilled nursing center, if ever needed. Importantly, care is included in the costs of residency, which protects a resident’s family and estate from the ever-rising costs of long-term care. This model also means a resident can stay in the same community as needs change, removing the prospect of a disruptive move at a difficult time.
In contrast, 55+ communities aren’t equipped to provide care. Residents are required to seek outside support or move if they need a higher level of care. Either way, the senior will pay full market rates for every level of care needed.
This difference in long-term care options makes Life Plan Communities a tremendous value with significant financial and lifestyle advantages.
Why Morningside of Fullerton Offers More
With its active lifestyle amenities, social opportunities, and wellness programs, Morningside has everything that 55+ communities offer – plus a built-in plan for long-term care.
By choosing a Life Plan Community like Morningside, residents enjoy an independent lifestyle now, plus the confidence of knowing they’re prepared for what the future may bring.
Contact Morningside today and schedule a personal tour of our Life Plan Community and see the difference for yourself.