Discover Continued Care In Alaska

Since many sponsors of CCRCs include religious, fraternal and community organizations, and other mainly non-profit companies involved with developing these retirement communities, they often imbue their philosophies and ideals within the communities. Be sure to shop around to find the best fit for your continuing care option based on your beliefs and preferences. Although there is no overarching federal agency that regulates retirement communities, the private non-profit organization CARF-CCAC provides a voluntary process for individual CCRCs to become accredited. 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. 

Find CONTINUING CARE Facilities In ALASKA

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Recreation and Attractions In Alaska

Alaska is a state filled with wildlife and natural beauty, providing residents with plenty of unique environments and breathtaking sights. There are so many things to see in Alaska that many people opt to take Air Taxi tours of the numerous mountain ranges and glaciers. Other attractions display the art and cultural practices of Alaska’s many Indigenous peoples. Whatever your level of mobility, Alaska will not disappoint you with its many natural wonders and unique cultural experiences.

Alaska's Climate, Geography, and Culture

We don't need to tell you that Alaska can get quite cold at times. However, some people prefer the cooler temperatures and will prefer to take advantage of the peace and quiet that is abundant in this state. With a smaller population, you will quickly be able to learn the names of your neighbors and they'll be willing to lend a helping hand during rough winters. 

Alaska's CCRC Rules and Regulations

Rules and regulations are put in place to ensure that CCRC's in Alaska are abiding by U.S. and are not taking advantage of patients. A full list of laws can be found at the Alaska State website. It will detail the quality of care required, the payment methods, and estimated cost among other things. If something seems unclear, feel free to contact a legal aid to explain any confusion.

Crime and Safety In Alaska

Violent crimes in Alaska are almost double that of the national average. However, despite this higher rate, there are only 8 crimes per square mile compared to 32 per square mile on the national scale. When you or your elderly loved one is looking for a CCRC to call home, it can be a good idea to consider which towns and cities are the rated as the safest.

LocationViolent Crimes Per 1,000 ResidentsProperty Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Palmer1.8425.48
Sitka.6726.85
Ketchikan3.5235.17

Payment and Costs for CCRCs in Alaska

The payment plans will differ at each CCRC, however, large entrance fees are to be expected and can range significantly depending on your contract and location. 

The type of contract entered into by the resident will include a monthly maintenance fee costing between $300 and $4,500 or more depending on which services are utilized. Some residents may choose a buy-in option, meaning they join the community through purchasing an actual property. Whether you buy a property 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 their 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 on a paying 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. This type of agreement relies heavily on the fluctuations of real estate in the area. 

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

Senior and Elderly Rights For Continuing Care in Alaska

Alaska has federal and state laws in place to ensure that your rights are never violated during you or your loved one's time at a CCRC. 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 senior law. Although CCRCs are the most expensive senior care option available, they are ideal for people who would like to retain an independent lifestyle. Coupled with Alaska’s intense and sprawling natural beauty, your move to a CCRC can be the perfect chance to retire in comfort and ease.

Alaska Continuing Care: Medical Records & Regulations

Most CCRC 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 Alaska 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 7 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.