Oklahoma Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Oklahoma

Do you want to enjoy your golden years in peace? Are you looking to plan for the future? For those of you who have answered affirmatively, moving into a continuing care retirement community might be an ideal solution. These senior living communities in the state of Oklahoma allow you to benefit from excellent healthcare services, right on the campus where you live, without having to worry about the costs of care becoming higher.

Continuing care retirement communities in Oklahoma offer stability to senior adults over a certain age, most commonly over 55 or 62. They have financial advantages, in the sense that one can opt for contracts that guarantee the same fees for the rest of one's life. However, they do request that one covers substantial entrance and monthly fees, so prospective residents have to consider their financial eligibility first and foremost. Otherwise, these senior living communities help seniors enjoy an independent lifestyle for as long as it is possible, with the thought of future healthcare needs in mind.

In the state of Oklahoma, there are 74 continuing care retirement communities. These can be found, among other cities, in: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Muskogee, Enid, and Edmond. More and more senior adults think about moving into a CCRC, given the freedom to live on their own terms. They also feel comforted by the fact that, when the time comes, it will be possible to transition to a higher level of care.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Oklahoma - financing and costs

Also known as life plan communities, CCRCs require prospective residents to cover two types of fees. The entrance fee or the equity buy-in represents an upfront investment in the respective community, covering the access to the continuum of care. A number of factors are considered in determining this fee, including the housing unit size, number of residents, refund plans, health benefits plans, etc. In Oklahoma, the entrance fee varies between $100,000 and $600,000, and some communities offer an online cost calculator to determine it.

The monthly fees cover the access to services and amenities, and they are determined in accordance to the type of contract chosen by the resident. In communities where there is no equity buy-in, these fees are considerably higher. With fee-for-service plans, there are only monthly fees to be covered. With Oklahoma-based CCRCs, the monthly fees vary between $2,000 and $4,000. Considering that the national average is $2,500, it is safe to assume that Oklahoma is one of the more affordable states in terms of retirement living.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities in Oklahoma - care levels and services

Generally-speaking, living options include: independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Almost all residents begin with independent living, enjoying the carefree lifestyle and spending their time doing what matters the most to them. When the need for additional support arises, they can transition to assisted living and benefit from assistance with daily living activities. Assisted living services might include incontinence management, medication administration, and mealtime accommodation.

Residents with complex health needs can transition to skilled nursing care, where they might benefit from short- or long-term rehabilitation. They are permanently assisted by a skilled and compassionate nursing team, with medical and personal assistance offered in a dignified and respectful manner. The services offered are meant to improve the overall quality of life, with emphasis on comfortable living. Those who suffer from memory loss, with a diagnosis of dementia, can benefit from memory care. Each care plan is individualized to help the respective resident thrive, with focus on potential strengths.

Transitions are decided after careful assessments performed by the specialized personnel, considering changes in health and independence, as well as the risk of injury. The family members of the resident might be asked to weigh in on the decision, as most CCRCs are looking to arrive at the best resolution for its member(s).

The services offered within continuing care retirement communities allow senior adults to enjoy a comfortable style of living. As a resident living in a CCRC, you might benefit from the following services: housekeeping, general maintenance, laundry and linen service, security, meal plans, transportation to/from appointments. Additional services might include: Bible study, guest admissions, Internet, cable, telephone, etc.

CCRC in Oklahoma - amenities and options

CCRCs provide seniors with a fulfilling lifestyle, allowing them to choose the options that suit their needs the most. Couples can live together, which is a significant advantage to consider; they can choose a living unit to spend their golden years in peace, remaining on the same campus even when their health care needs are different. Pets are allowed on most campuses, but it might be a good idea to check with the management first.

What about amenities? There are so many opportunities offered, that you will have a hard time deciding how to plan your day. Among the most common amenities, there are: fine-dining restaurants and cafes, library, chapel, landscaped gardens, card and game rooms, walking paths, fitness and wellness centers, learning centers, art studios, woodworking shop, communal areas, community group activities, off-site trips. Memory care amenities include: specialized activities and programs, group activities, guided walks, memory garden, etc.

What are some positives and negatives of moving into a CCRC in Oklahoma?

Planning for the future can bring you peace of mind, and moving into an Oklahoma-based CCRC might be a sound decision to take. Here are a few pros and cons to aid you in your plans.

Pros of moving to a CCRC in OK

Live on your own terms, within a community that gives you everything you need

Exceptional, compassionate care for both the present and future

Unparalleled service, adjusted to your needs (healthcare and personal assistance)

Peace of mind knowing you no longer need to handle house chores

Life plans available in certain communities, no risk of rising of costs

Cons of moving to a CCRC in OK

Almost all CCRCs have certain restrictions and you might not feel comfortable with them

Transitioning to a higher level of care might feel you anxious or depressed (luckily the necessary support is available)

Not all retirement communities offer life care plans (check policy)

Significant entrance and monthly fees

Admittance can take months or years before a spot opens up, so it is for the best to apply early