There has never been a greater selection of options for quality retirement living. Unfortunately, these choices... ILRCs, RCFs, ALFs, CCRCs... can look and sound like “alphabet soup.” That’s why we invite you to visit Fountain Plaza to get a free copy of our popular “PLANNING FOR A RETIREMENT YOU CAN AFFORD” brochure.
While you’re visiting Fountain Plaza, our Community Relations Director will explain the five basic retirement options available to you today.
ILRC’s - Independent Living Retirement Communities - These communities cater to individuals that desire to live independently. They can be manufactured home parks, residential communities, senior apartments, or “communal” or “congregate” communities like Fountain Plaza. Congregate communities provide extra services such as maintenance, housekeeping, meals, transportation, and social activities.
RCF’s - Residential Care Facilities - Many independent retirement communities such as Fountain Plaza offer apartments licensed by the state for residential care (we call ours “Personal Care Apartments”). RCF’s are ideal for seniors wanting to age in place at a more affordable cost while offering some level of assistance with bathing, dressing, medications and meals. State regulations do not require them to be staffed with nurses or certified nursing assistants.
ALF’s - Assisted Living Facilities - The term “assisted living” is defined by the Assisted Living Association of America as any residential facility that is not licensed as a nursing home, but offers personal care and support services to seniors that need help with daily activities. These facilities differ from RCF’s in that they are licensed by the state to provide more extensive nursing care and are staffed by nursing professionals.
LTC’s - Long Term Care Facilities - These facilities, commonly called nursing homes, provide skilled nursing care. These facilities are regulated by state and federal authorities and are also staffed by nursing professionals.
CCRC’s - Continuing Care Retirement Communities - These communities offer a wide variety of housing choices and combine all levels of care - independent living, assisted and long-term care in a single location. Most of these facilities require an entrance fee, which may or may not be refundable, plus a monthly fee that covers housing, residential services (maintenance, some meals, etc.), plus unlimited long-term nursing care. Most CCRC’s have minimum requirements for incoming residents based on financial assets, income level, age, health and mobility.
