By Greg Pascucci
Selecting a senior living community can involve a myriad of choices. In addition to finding the right mix of services, amenities and lifestyle choices, it is essential to understand the different fee structures available—from continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) requiring large upfront entry fees to rental retirement communities offering similar services available on a monthly fee basis.
Although renting does offer financial flexibility that a CCRC might not, there are other factors that may be important to consider. Some find a CCRC “life care” plan offers them the comfort of a long-term commitment to their future care needs. By “pre-paying” for health care services (as part of the upfront entry fee), skilled nursing care may be included, should it be required. However, to qualify for residency at a CCRC, seniors must meet both medical and financial criteria prior to move-in. (According to the National Institute of Health, less than 5 percent of older adults need to live in a skilled nursing environment. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov).
For many, the rental style is an attractive alternative because there is no large up-front fee or complex medical and financial eligibility criteria that potential residents must meet. This is especially true for seniors who have pre-existing conditions or for those who simply prefer not having to pre-pay for care they may never need. Such flexibility is also beneficial if a spouse passes away and the widow or widower is interested in relocating to be closer to other family members.
After researching rental and life care retirement communities, many residents at The Carlisle Naples, a luxury senior living community, have found paying for a large upfront fee would take away their freedom to invest the proceeds from the sale of a home or other assets. The satisfaction of knowing they are enjoying a maintenance-free lifestyle while preserving their assets for loved ones can be a deciding factor.
Virginia and Jerry Davis, for example, thoroughly researched their options before moving to The Carlisle Naples.
“We had already purchased three homes during our lifetime and wanted the flexibility that came with a monthly fee option,” said Mr. Davis, who, along with his wife, retired from educational institutions. “We looked at a “buy-in” community but realized you don’t always get back your entire entrance fee. We didn’t want to wipe out all our savings and not have anything for family commitments.”
The couple lived in Ave Maria for seven years before moving to Naples to be closer to their doctors.
“We asked our doctor’s office about their patients who lived at The Carlisle, and they said they had heard positive feedback and people were quite satisfied. This solidified our decision to move. There were also no health screenings and we were easily accepted by the community.”
The award-winning, CARF-accredited community offers both independent living and assisted living. Plus,
the extended congregate care (ECC) license allows The Carlisle to provide additional supportive and nursing services to residents who might otherwise need to transition to a skilled nursing facility.
The Davises believe the amenities, activities and dining opportunities offered at The Carlisle are ideal for older adults seeking peace of mind for the future and a vibrant lifestyle – all without the financial commitment of a CCRC. Each week, the Zest Director—charged with appealing to residents’ mind, body and soul—offers a comprehensive calendar of events filled with adventurous outings, stimulating lectures, invigorating fitness activities and a wealth of opportunities for socialization. Plus, The Carlisle offers 12-hour restaurant dining and has added plant-based options to its extensive menu through its FreshZest initiative.
“We’re very pleased with our life at The Carlisle,” said Mr. Davis. “It’s very satisfying knowing we are enjoying a wonderful maintenance-free lifestyle while preserving our assets for loved ones.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyle featuring spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle Naples
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.srgseniorliving.com