Life Plan Communities

Life Plan Communities provide a continuum of housing and health services at every level of need for older adults. Formerly known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), these housing developments offer residents a tiered approach to addressing health care needs from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing on the same campus.

Residents enter into a contractual agreement with the Life Plan Community and pay a substantial entry fee as well as monthly fees. Independent housing units may include apartments, townhouses, condominiums or freestanding homes and may range in size from studios to three-bedroom homes.

There are three types of contracts:

1. Life Care: Unlimited assisted living, medical treatment, and skilled nursing care.
2. Modified: Services are provided for a determined length of time.
3. Fee-for-Service: Assisted living and skilled nursing are paid for at market rate.

Life Plan Communities are not licensed by the state of Connecticut, but certain parts, such as nursing homes and assisted living services, are licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Life Plan Communities are typically age-restricted. There may be a requirement that residents be eligible for independent living to enter into a Life Care or Modified contract. Some facilities may also require residents to be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B.

Residents must also be able to demonstrate an ability to pay the required fees.

Services vary according to the Life Plan Communities and residents’ needs. They may include:

• Nursing and other health care services
• Personal assistance and help with meals, housekeeping and transportation
• Emergency help
• Assisted living and
• Recreational and educational activities

Life Plan Communities involve substantial financial investment. Most require a one-time entry fee and subsequent monthly payments. They may accept Medicaid funding for residents who move permanently to the nursing care section of the facility.

Private Pay:
Private pay refers to using personal funds to cover all or a portion of an expense. There are different ways to acquire private pay resources.

HUSKY Health and Medicaid:
This program provides a comprehensive health care benefit package including preventive care, primary care, specialist visits, hospital care, behavioral health services, dental services, hospice and prescription medications to eligible individuals.