As you look ahead, you’ve probably had specific thoughts about where you’ll live as you get older. If a Life Plan Community (also sometimes known as a continuing care retirement community or CCRC) is on your radar, you’re not alone. More and more older adults are embracing this option for the benefits it offers, including independence, connection and future security.
Thanks to the baby boomer generation, the number of Americans age 65 and older will increase by 47% by 2050. This unprecedented rate of growth has already put pressure on the availability of senior living options, and the development of new Life Plan Communities has not kept up with rising demand.
As senior living has become more popular, availability has decreased and community waitlists have grown lengthier. Even if you don’t plan to move to a Life Plan Community next month or even next year, planning ahead isn’t just about logistics. It’s about giving yourself more options to choose from and control over how you take your next step.
Planning ahead is key to ensuring your ideal senior living option is available when you need it most. It puts you in control of what happens now and later on, so you can enjoy the lifestyle you want on your own terms.
Early planning gives you the luxury of thoroughly researching and touring Life Plan Communities without pressure. You’ll get to see and consider firsthand each community’s services, atmosphere, culture and team members, so you find a place that feels like home.
Studies show that older adults who live in thoughtfully designed Life Plan Communities tend to live longer, receive better health care and more. Access to fitness programs, on-site medical services, nutritious meals and social opportunities contribute to your long-term physical and mental health.
Some communities have structured fees that increase over time, so locking in rates early may save you money in the long run. Life Plan Communities may also offer flexible financial options or incentives, including refundable deposits and tailored payment plans, to people who plan ahead. Most importantly, early planning gives you plenty of time to consult with a financial advisor and align your resources with your long-term goals.
Joining a waitlist often comes with access to amenities and resources before you move to the community. For instance, HumanGood’s Front Door Club welcomes waitlist members with invitations to on-site events, opportunities to get to know your future neighbors and a regular newsletter filled with tips for healthy aging, better living and impactful relationships. This early engagement can ease your transition when moving time arrives.
When it comes to Life Plan Communities and waitlists, you may be holding onto myths that cause hesitation or delay. Let’s set the record straight on what waitlists really are and how they work in your favor.
Life Plan Communities with sterling reputations in desirable locations often have waitlists that stretch months or even years. Assuming you can move when you want may mean missing out on your top choice. When you join a waitlist early, you ensure that you have options that align with your needs and preferences.
Many people envision senior living as a place for older adults who need constant care, but today’s Life Plan Communities are a far cry from that stereotype. Life Plan Communities offer freedom and flexibility in the form of low-maintenance living, on-site amenities, multiple dining options, fitness resources and rich social calendars.
Waiting to move until a sudden health event can leave you and your family scrambling to make a decision with fewer available options. It can also mean that you may not medically qualify as an independent living resident who is eligible for a Life Plan contract, which is a type of agreement offered by Life Plan Communities that guarantees your access to a continuum of care as your needs change. By planning ahead and joining a waitlist now, you give yourself the gift of choice, time and peace of mind.
Joining a waitlist doesn’t mean you’re packing boxes next month or even next year. Most communities know that people want to plan ahead without the pressure of an immediate move. Joining a waitlist simply secures your spot for the future, so you have the flexibility to decide when the timing is right.
Many Life Plan Communities offer benefits to waitlist members, such as invitations to resident events, educational opportunities and access to on-site amenities. You can enjoy the community and meet your future neighbors before moving.
It’s natural to want to protect your family members from worry, but avoiding the conversation can lead to more stress and difficulties down the road. During a health emergency or unexpected life event, ambiguity can create confusion, rushed decisions and emotional stress.
Starting the conversation when there are no urgent circumstances gives everyone the time and space to explore options and understand your preferences. Initiating this discussion early is one of the most caring and empowering things you can do.
Now that you know the benefits of planning ahead, you may be wondering how senior living waitlists work. Let’s break down what to expect, from the types of waitlists available to the questions you should ask each community when considering which one to join.
Joining a Life Plan Community waitlist generally involves the following steps:
Application and deposit: Joining a waitlist is as simple as filling out an application and submitting a deposit. You’ll usually have the option to declare your preferences for a specific floor plan, location, timing and more.
Notification of an opening: When your name comes up, the community will contact you. Depending on the demand, your wait may be just a few months or even years.
Decision time frame: You’ll have a set period of time to decide whether to accept an available opening. This window — often a few days — gives you the opportunity to visit the available residence and ask questions.
Deferring your move: If the timing isn’t right, the community may provide you with the option to remain on the waitlist. Depending on the community’s policies, you might even stay at or near your original position on the waitlist.
When you take a tour or speak with a Life Plan Community representative, it's important to ask detailed questions about the waitlist. Here are key points to bring up:
How long is the waitlist for the level of living or residence type I’m interested in?
Is there a deposit required? Is it refundable?
Can I change my preferences when I’m on the waitlist?
Can I get on multiple waitlists for different residence types?
When my name comes up, how long do I have to decide?
Can I defer and stay on the list if I’m not ready when a home opens up?
Is there a maximum number of times I can defer?
If I defer, do I go to the bottom of the list or stay in the same position?
Can I visit the community and attend social events there while I’m on the waitlist?
Planning for senior living may not feel urgent right now, but taking early action can make a big difference tomorrow. As you’re evaluating your options for a move to a Life Plan Community, download The Complete Guide to the Costs of Senior Living for guidance on finding the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.