When seniors consider moving to a Continuing Care Retirement Community (also referred to as a Life Plan Community), they tend to share a number of common questions and concerns about making such an important life decision—and understandably so. Choosing to move to a CCRC, and finding the right community, requires thoughtful research, planning, and discussion. If you or your loved ones are thinking about moving to a CCRC such as Viamonte at Walnut Creek, here are some essential starting points to help you make a more informed decision. Common Concerns The majority of concerns about CCRCs come from worries about finances, healthcare, and the culture at the community. Questions like, “Does the CCRC accept long-term care insurance?” “What are the fees required of residents at move-in, and each month?” and “What is the community like?” are some of the most prevalent concerns people raise. It is perfectly natural, of course, to be thinking about these things. People want to know that they will be able to afford to live at a Life Plan Community, that the community’s finances will be stable, and that the community will provide its residents with quality amenities and services. They want to understand what healthcare options are available to them, what different payment options exist, and what the medical staff is like. As for community, they want to know if they’ll get along with the other residents, whether people in the community are active and engaged, and also what kinds of activities they’ll be able to enjoy at the CCRC. Financial Misconceptions In addition to valid concerns and questions, there are also some misconceptions that exist among people researching a Life Plan Community, particularly when it comes to cost and value. Many look at the price tag of moving to a CCRC and get sticker shock, thinking that they can’t afford it. But often, through sound financial planning, they discover that living at a CCRC such as Viamonte at Walnut Creek is actually realistic (and practical) to do so. One thing that people often don’t consider is the level of costs inherent in not moving to a CCRC—the costs of staying at home, or “aging in place.” Home maintenance and repairs, in-home healthcare, and many other expenses can make aging in place much more costly than many seniors realize. Fee Structure at Viamonte at Walnut Creek To understand why Viamonte at Walnut Creek is an excellent choice among CCRCs, it’s important first to discuss the fees that residents pay. At Viamonte, residents are responsible for a repayable entrance fee and an ongoing monthly fee. These fees cover residents’ housing costs, as well as a wide array of services and amenities (which we’ll discuss in the following section). Viamonte’s fees are determined based on an affordable and sustainable financial model, which gives residents peace of mind. Entrance and monthly fees are standard among almost all CCRCs and Life Plan Communities, so evaluating which are worth the money comes down to understanding what sets the best senior living communities apart from the rest. The Value of Viamonte At Viamonte at Walnut Creek, future residents will enjoy an active, engaged lifestyle where the little details of the community make a world of difference. Viamonte’s comprehensive services for residents will include multiple dining options; a housekeeping and linen service; cable TV and Wi-Fi internet access; recreational, social, and educational programming; salon and spa services; and more. As for amenities, Viamonte will feature an outdoor fireside lounge, a gas-fired grill area, a bocce court, an art studio, a wellness center, a fitness center, swimming pool, performing arts center, a card and game room, and a number of other building features geared specifically for maximizing the physical and mental wellbeing of the resdents in our community. Combined with the friendly and professional staff, these amenities and services will make Viamonte a wonderful place to live. Add in the vibrant community of outgoing, caring individuals who will live at Viamonte, and the result is a special community worthy of being called “home.” To learn more about Viamonte at Walnut Creek, contact us at 925-621-6600. We are happy to answer any questions you may have, and to arrange for you to visit our Preview Center and model home.