April 5, 2021 —A generation ago, moving to a senior living facility was usually due to an injury or rapidly declining health that required assistance in daily living. Today, more older adults are choosing to make a pro-active decision and move to a Life Plan Community (formerly called CCRC) in their late 60s or early 70s as a way to enjoy an active, maintenance free lifestyle and get the most of community living in retirement while planning for future healthcare needs.
According to actuarial consulting firm Milliman Inc., the ages of residents who enter Life Plan Communities (CCRCs) range from 65 to 95. In the last 20 years, average entry ages have increased from the mid-70s to the lower 80s. In contrast, at Kendal at Lexington, our average move-in age during the past year was 72 (lower than previous years). We welcomed 22 new residents over 2020.
The current nationwide average age of a typical resident is 84. Here at Kendal at Lexington, our average age is 82.
Statistically, single women make up a much larger segment of residents at most communities. We buck the trend with a higher number of couples, 45. While we currently have 121 women residents, we also have 77 men making up the 198 residents in independent living.
We have a wide mix of residents originally from the Lexington area as well as those from as far away as Maine, California, Texas and Florida. Approximately 45% of resident’s are from the local area and the other 55% are from outside Lexington and the surrounding towns. They are attracted to Kendal at Lexington for not only the beautiful location, amenities and care, but also our core values.
An Attractive Alternative to Aging in Place
Much different than the outdated stereotype of an “old folks’ home”, Life Plan communities (CCRCs) are focused on maintaining and enhancing health and wellness, social, emotional, and cognitive quality of life. Many of our residents are our best representatives when it comes to helping potential residents make the decision to move to Kendal. Not only do they appreciate the peace of mind that comes with having a Lifecare plan in place, they also especially like the community and connection living the Kendal lifestyle provides.
An Investment in Your Future
The financial advantage to a community that offers a lifecare plan is apparent when compared to the unexpected and often financially devastating costs of an extended illness or long-term skilled nursing.
The costs of aging in place; home ownership, taxes, and maintenance, in-home care or visiting nurse, and other services plus the added health risks associated with isolation, safety, and well-being make a CCRC move a wise financial choice.
Something for Everyone
According to the American Senior Housing Association, there are over 1,900 CCRCs in the 48 states and District of Columbia. There are various groups or interests founding these communities, such as faith-based, or health systems, military affiliations, or fraternal organizations. Like Lexington, some communities develop CCRCs in the interest of preserving the quality of life for their citizens and attract others from a far to add to the tapestry of their town.
Finding the right CCRC for you doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. At Kendal at Lexington, we offer virtual and in-person visits, and interaction with residents who candidly share their experiences and advice about moving here. To learn more about our campus and our people, us at (888) 467-6115.