What is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC)?

A continuing care retirement community is a senior living environment designed to meet changing needs across multiple care levels on a single campus. Residents typically move through different housing and service options as their health or mobility changes, rather than relocating to separate facilities.

CCRCs usually consist of three main components:

• Independent living residences for active seniors who need minimal support
• Assisted living units for those requiring help with daily activities such as meals, medications, or personal care
• Skilled nursing facilities for residents needing medical care and around-the-clock supervision

The model appeals to seniors and their families because it allows people to age in place within a familiar community. A resident might begin in an independent apartment, transition to assisted living as mobility declines, and eventually move to nursing care if needed, all without changing their overall community. Staff, dining facilities, activities, and support services are shared across the campus.

Most CCRCs require an upfront entrance fee in addition to monthly service fees, though fee structures vary. The senior living market in Greater Austin includes senior housing providers offering different models of continuing care arrangements. Understanding whether a community offers true continuing care (all three levels) versus independent or assisted living only is important when evaluating options.