Financial Planning Briefs

12.04.2019

Continuing Care Communities

 

An Opportunity to Access Flexible Services

Staying in one’s home, often referred to as “aging-in-place”, has considerable appeal, but it may not be a realistic option for many seniors.  As the American population ages, a diverse range of senior housing options has developed.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are an increasingly popular option as they combine independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care.  CCRCs may have appeal as all-inclusive communities offering health services, social activities, meals, housekeeping, transportation, emergency help, and many other services.

What Factors Should I Consider?

When exploring future housing options, several considerations are of paramount importance:

  • Your healthcare status and anticipated future needs, as well as that of your spouse (if applicable);
  • Your likely need for household support services such as transportation, shopping and maintenance;
  • Your lifestyle and social preferences;
  • Your long-term housing and healthcare budget

CCRCs vary significantly in cost based on size, type of living space, location and the nature of care.  In some instances, the entry fee is partially refundable if you leave within a few years of moving in, while other options include partial refund terms for the resident or their heirs.

Proactively buying into a CCRC before your healthcare or other needs change also offers an ability to age in a comfortable residence where advanced care availability is present should it eventually be needed.

 

Our Recommendations

First and foremost, we recommend clients speak with their families and trusted advisors well ahead of having to make housing decisions.  Housing and healthcare services are rapidly evolving and gathering as much information as possible now can lead to better decisions later.  Whether one desires to age-in-place, transition to a CCRC, or feels another housing option makes the most sense, getting assistance in identifying the right fit, range of services and budget parameters is critical.

 

How can we help you?  Please contact:

Jim O’Neil, Managing Director, 617-338-0700 x775

[email protected]

www.www.appletonpartners.com

 

This commentary reflects the opinions of Appleton Partners based on information that we believe to be reliable. It is intended for informational purposes only, and not to suggest any specific performance or results, nor should it be considered investment, financial, tax or other professional advice. It is not an offer or solicitation. Views regarding the economy, securities markets or other specialized areas, like all predictors of future events, cannot be guaranteed to be accurate and may result in economic loss to the investor. While the Adviser believes the outside data sources cited to be credible, it has not independently verified the correctness of any of their inputs or calculations and, therefore, does not warranty the accuracy of any third-party sources or information.  Specific securities identified and described may or may not be held in portfolios managed by the Adviser and do not represent all of the securities purchased, sold, or recommended for advisory clients. The reader should not assume that investments in the securities identified and discussed are, were or will be profitable. Any securities identified were selected for illustrative purposes only, as a vehicle for demonstrating investment analysis and decision making. Investment process, strategies, philosophies, allocations, performance composition, target characteristics and other parameters are current as of the date indicated and are subject to change without prior notice. Registration with the SEC should not be construed as an endorsement or an indicator of investment skill acumen or experience. Investments in securities are not insured, protected or guaranteed and may result in loss of income and/or principal.
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