Discover CCRC's in Alabama

Continuing care retirement communities are retirement communities with accommodations for independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care, offering residents a continuum of care. The communities ensure a dignified place for your or your senior to stay. Depending on your location and specific needs your options may vary. Since many sponsors of CCRCs include religious, fraternal and community organizations, and other companies involved with developing these retirement communities, be sure to shop around to find the best fit for your continuing care option.

Find CONTINUING CARE Facilities In ALABAMA

Find Senior Caring Options by County

Recreation and Attractions In Alabama

Alabama is a great place for history buffs looking to find out about their country. Places like the U.S. Space and Rocket Center and the Little River Canyon National Preservation are great sights to explore during your time in Alabama. Nature enthusiasts will love Alabama for its variety of offerings. 

Alabama's Climate, Geography, and Culture

Since people 60 years of age and older living in Alabama represent 19.5% of the state’s total population, many cities offer quality choices in senior living filled with a rich Southern history and culture. Between the Gulf Coast’s vibrant, white sandy beaches and the lush state forests and game lands, Alabama can be a great place for senior nature enthusiasts to enjoy the great outdoors.

Alabama's CCRC Regulations and Laws

CCRC's in Alabama are subject to a variety of rules and regulations designed to keep Continued Care communities running full speed ahead. These regulations can be viewed on the Alabama State website so you can see just how CCRCs are being monitored for your convenience. 

Crime and Safety In Alabama

FBI Crime Report data shows that the average violent crime rate of Alabama’s 30 safest cities is actually 55% less than the national average. Margaret, Helena, and the city of Southside come in as the top 3 safest places to consider when choosing a nursing home or other care option for your loved one. Although proper CCRCs are often well secured, it’s important to be aware of the surrounding area for the sake of your loved one’s peace of mind and the safety of any visitors or family.

LocationViolent Crimes Per 1,000 ResidentsProperty Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Helena.958.16
Vestavia Hills.6513.4
Rainbow City1.0415.41

Payment Options and Costs for CCRCs in Alabama

The payment plans will differ at each CCRC, however, large entrance fees are to be expected and can range anywhere from $30,000 to $500,000 and even up to $1 million at a single time depending on your contract and location. The national average cost of an entrance fee based on the most recent data is $248,000, and this price is expected to continue to fluctuate based on local housing prices.

The type of contract entered into by the resident will include a monthly maintenance fee with costs ranging depending on which services are utilized. Some residents may choose a buy-in option, meaning they join the home through buying an actual property. Whether you buy or not, it’s still necessary to look out for any additional maintenance or service fees before signing a contract.

The difference in prices is largely a result of the type of contract residents enter into, as well as individual health care costs and possible Medicare or Medicaid coverage. 

  1. Extensive Contracts – Guarantee a lifetime of housing and care at any and all levels provided by the community. Also, include monthly fees in exchange for a wide range of services. Because there is a relatively lower degree of risk, the upfront costs are much higher.
    1. Entry Fee: $160,000 - $600,000
    2. Monthly Fee: $2,500 - $5,400
  2. Modified Contracts – Similar to extensive contracts, except one’s coverage of care, is only extended to a set number of days. After exceeding this limit, services are paid for out of pocket by the resident. Monthly fees are also still charged at an ongoing rate.
    1. Entry Fee: $80,000 - $750,000
    2. Monthly Fee: $1,500 - $2,500
  3. Fee-For-Service Contracts – Residents only pay for the services they currently use, however, are not safeguarded from any future changes in pricing or service availability. Most of the financial burden is borne by the resident, depending on Medicare or Medicaid eligibility. These are considered to be the contracts with the highest risk, even though their upfront costs are the lowest.
    1. Entry Fee: $100,000 - $500,000
    2. Monthly Fee: $1,300 - $4,300
  4. Rental Agreements – Allow residents the ability to rent a housing unit and pay on a monthly or annual basis. This type of contract does not guarantee access to health care on a fee-for-service basis, unlike other agreements.
    1. Entry Fee: $1,800 - $30,000
    2. Monthly Fee: $900 - $10,700
  5. Equity Agreements – Shares of the community or association are afforded to individuals by the transferal of actual home, condominium, or townhome ownership within the CCRC. Healthcare services can still be purchased for additional fees. Through an equity agreement, the property’s appreciation benefits the individual or their estate as specified by the terms of the contract.

From a Report by The U.S. Government Accountability Office

Senior and Elderly Rights For Continued Care in Alabama

The Constitution and Bill of Rights guarantee that your freedoms, privacy, and ability to act autonomously are preserved while receiving care at the community's various levels. Residents have the right to manage their personal and financial affairs and voice grievances. Additionally, all services provided and a description of your rights within each particular CCRC are to be displayed and understood upon entering into your continuing care contract. If these rights are violated, don’t hesitate to contact a legal advisor familiar with elder law. Although CCRCs are the most expensive senior care option available, they are ideal for people who would like to live independently. Coupled with Alabama’s Southern charm, your experience at a CCRC can be the perfect chance to retire in comfort and ease.

AL Continued Care: Medical Record Rules and Regulations

Since the goal of CCRCs is to aid residents in living independently, most communities will require a health screening in order for individuals to be admitted. Many times an applicant’s health records are required in tandem with physical examination given by a physician selected by the particular CCRC. Residents receiving any type of medical attention in Alabama are entitled to a comprehensive and accurate record of their diagnosis and treatment. State and federal laws provide that residents have access to their records and health information, as well as the right to know when disclosures have been made. Otherwise, these records are to remain confidential for up to 5 years and can be accessed by submitting a request and providing a small fee.

Finding the perfect senior care community is only part of making your loved one’s senior living transition smooth. At SeniorCaring, we know that it is also equally important to be aware of what other community services and resources are available to your family’s senior. Choose your location and find local resources for your senior.