AWCA Resource Center
AWCA Resource Center

Housing

Continuing Care Housing

Continuing Care Housing, commonly known as CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) or Life Plan Community, is a comprehensive retirement complex designed to provide a continuous spectrum of housing and care services as a resident’s health status changes over time.

Residents start with Independent Living and, as they require more assistance over time, are guaranteed continuous care by transitioning within the same community through the stages of Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facility.

Eligibility

Continuing Care Housing typically has more stringent entry requirements than standard senior housing.

  • Age: The standard age is generally 55 years or older, though this may vary by community. 
  • Health Status
    • Residents must be healthy enough to sustain Independent Living at the time of entry.
    • An entrance physical exam and cognitive testing are required; if a resident already requires intensive care, admission to an independent living unit may be denied.
  • Finances
    • Proof of assets and income is required to cover the high entrance fees and monthly service fees.
    • The community conducts a strict financial review to ensure the resident can afford the costs for the duration of their life.
  • Insurance: Many communities require enrollment in Medicare Parts A & B as well as Medigap (supplemental insurance).

*Verify directly with each individual CCRC prior to moving in.

Financial Structure

Continuing Care Housing involves significantly high initial costs.

  • Entrance Fee: Varies from $50,000 to over $1,000,000, depending on the region and unit size. The total amount depends on whether the fee is Refundable or not.
  • Monthly Service Fee: Includes meals, housekeeping, facility access, and security; typically costs several thousand dollars per month and varies significantly depending on the community and level of care (direct verification with the community is required).

Contract Types

Contracts are generally divided into three types based on cost and the scope of services provided.

Contract TypeNameFeatures
Type ALife CareMost expensive, but monthly fees remain largely stable even if you move to a nursing facility. (Minimizes financial risk for medical care)
Type BModifiedLower entrance fee. When nursing services are needed, they are provided free or at a discount for a limited period; additional costs apply thereafter.
Type CFee-for-ServiceLowest initial cost. However, if care services are needed, the resident must pay the full Market Rate at that time.

Pros

  • Spouses can remain close within the same community even if only one person requires medical care.
  • Reduces the financial and physical burden of caregiving on children.
  • Predictable future healthcare costs (specifically with a Type A contract).

Cons

  • Very high initial entry costs.
  • Risk that the entrance fee may not be easily refundable if the community’s finances are unstable.
  • Requires a quick decision while still healthy, as early entry is mandatory.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in New Jersey

TownCommunity NameKey Features Contact
WyckoffThe
Vista		Operated by Christian Health, which is based on Christian principles. It features the most modern facilities and customized wellness systems within Bergen County.201-689-5513
Pompton PlainsCedar
Crest		A large-scale community situated on a 130-acre site. It features its own on-site medical center and a system of dedicated medical staff.973-834-8513
MonroeMonroe VillageHistory of winning Newsweek's America's Best CCRCs. It features robust infrastructure in the Monroe area and high levels of community satisfaction.732-521-6400
MaplewoodWinchester GardensAwarded U.S. News "Best Facility" for 2026. It features historic architecture and an elegant environment.973-762-5050
East WindsorMeadow Lakes2025 Newsweek award winner, this community is chosen by seniors who prefer a quiet and intellectual living environment.609-448-4100
Basking RidgeFellowship VillageOperates wellness and health management programs. It combines a pleasant 72-acre environment with high-quality professional nursing services.908-498-7302

Before deciding to move in, you must review the NJ DCA’s CCRC Disclosure Statement and consult with financial and legal professionals.

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