CCRCs in Pennsylvania

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. Since many sponsors of CCRCs include religious, fraternal and community organizations, and other 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. 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.

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Recreation and Attractions in Pennsylvania

Today, people can come and explore what Pennsylvania has to offer in cities like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Pittsburgh boasts the Carnegie Museum of Art, Museum of Natural History, and Science Center. While Philly provides that big city feel. Civil War buffs can tour the Gettysburg National Military Park or stop by Lancaster County for some quality Amish baking and a diverse blend of small businesses and culture in Lancaster City.

Pennsylvania's Climate, Geography, and Culture

Pennsylvania is a state of incredible historic value and many diverse city centers and cultures. Known as the Keystone State, Pennsylvania has been instrumental in holding the United States together since William Penn and other Quaker settlers arrived as early as 1704. Philadelphia would later see the signing of the Declaration of Independence and serve as the capital of the United States from 1790-1800. The average temperature is 56 degrees, with an average low temperature of 47 degrees, and an average high temperature of 65 degrees. The winter temperatures are in the 40’s and the summer temperatures are in the 80’s. The spring and fall temperatures are in the 50s and 70s. Typically, summers are hot and humid with moderate and brief winters. Pennsylvania has a good mix of big cities like Philadelphia and Harrisburg while still retaining that quaint, homegrown feel. The Amish community is prevalent in the east, that offers plenty of places to enjoy retirement. 

Pennsylvania's Personal Care Home Regulations and Laws

Continued care homes in Pennsylvania are subject to a list of rules, regulations, and laws that can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website. These regulations are put in place so all CCRCs in Pennsylvania are in the best condition possible. These regulations include regular facility inspections, strict health codes, and extensive background checks for employees.

Crime and Safety in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a large and diverse state in terms of geography and its city centers. However, in terms of violent and property crimes, rates are lower than the national average. Although there is a higher percentage of crime per square mile, this is likely due to densely populated cities like Reading, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh. Choosing the right community can ensure that you and your investment in a CCRC in Pennsylvania remain safe. Below are some of the safest regions in the state.

LocationViolent Crimes Per 1,000 ResidentsProperty Crimes Per 1,000 Residents
Clarks Summit.23.95
Meadville2.2720.25
Kennett Square1.1411.22

(source: safewise.com)

Payment and Costs for CCRCs in Pennsylvania

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 buying 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 - $600,00
    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 born 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 healthcare 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 town home 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 Rights for Continued Care in Pennsylvania

Entering a Pennsylvania CCRC doesn’t mean your rights as a US citizen are left behind. State and federal laws guarantee that your freedoms, privacy, and ability to act autonomously are preserved while receiving care at the community's various levels. Residents are still able to manage their financial and personal rights. 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. Please contact a legal representative specializing in elder law if you feel that the rights of you or your senior have been compromised. Coupled with Pennsylvania’s diverse attractions and high-quality communities, your move to a CCRC can be the perfect chance to retire comfortably.

PA CCRCs: Medical Record Rules & Regulations 

Most communities require a health screening in order for individuals to be admitted. Often an applicant’s health records are required in tandem with physical examination given by a physician selected by the particular CCRC. Unfortunately, it is common for applicants with frailties and those older than 80 years of age to be deemed, too frail and not accepted into the CCRC.

Residents of CCRCs in Pennsylvania care or receiving any other type of medical attention are entitled to a comprehensive and accurate record of their diagnosis and treatment. State and federal laws provide can access these records at any time. Otherwise, these records are to remain confidential 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.