What is a Life Care Center?
A "life care center" is a common term used to describe a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), often referred to as a Life Plan Community. These communities provide a tiered approach to senior living, offering a continuum of care on one campus. This means a resident can move in while healthy and independent and later transition to assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing care as needed, all within the same community.
The term "Life Care" also specifically refers to a type of contract (Type A) offered within some CCRCs. This contract provides unlimited access to health services for a predictable monthly fee, regardless of the actual level of care required. Other contracts, such as modified (Type B) or fee-for-service (Type C), may have lower entrance fees but offer less predictability regarding future healthcare costs.
The total number of life care centers (CCRCs) in the U.S.
While an exact, consistently reported number can be elusive, credible sources estimate the number of CCRCs in the U.S. to be approximately 2,000. The dynamic nature of the senior living industry, with new communities emerging and others consolidating, along with different state regulations, makes a precise count difficult. For example, the U.S. Census Bureau data listed 5,639 establishments under the category "Continuing Care Retirement Communities" in 2023, though this may include a broader definition of facilities.
Lists of top-ranked CCRCs typically include only a fraction of the total market, highlighting a key distinction between general numbers and high-performance rankings. Notably, the number of CCRCs is projected to increase as the population ages and demand for comprehensive senior living options grows.
Regional market concentration
CCRCs are not evenly distributed across the United States. Factors such as state regulations, demographics, and market demand influence where these communities are most concentrated. According to a 2023 analysis, certain regions have significantly more CCRCs than others:
- Midwest: This region, particularly the states of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin, contains a large portion of the national market.
- Northeast: Pennsylvania, where the CCRC model originated, is a key hub, with New York also home to a significant number.
- Southeast: States along the coast, especially Florida, have a high concentration of CCRCs.
- West and Southwest: These regions generally have fewer CCRCs, although the number is increasing.
Contract types: A financial comparison
The cost structure of a CCRC, especially one with a specific "life care" contract, is a primary consideration for residents. The following table provides a general comparison of the three most common contract types:
| Feature | Type A (Life Care) | Type B (Modified) | Type C (Fee-for-Service) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entrance Fee | Highest upfront cost. | Moderate upfront cost. | Lowest upfront cost. |
| Monthly Fee | Predictable, typically higher to cover potential future care. | Lower initial monthly fee. | Lower initial monthly fee. |
| Future Care Costs | No significant increase for assisted or skilled nursing care. | Limited amount of care included; market rates apply after limit is reached. | Pays market rates for all care services as they are used. |
| Predictability | High financial predictability for long-term care. | Moderate predictability; risk of increased costs later. | Low predictability; costs can increase significantly. |
| Primary Benefit | Guarantees care for life at a more stable cost. | Balances lower entry fees with some guaranteed care. | Offers flexibility with the lowest initial buy-in. |
Important considerations for choosing a CCRC
Selecting a CCRC is a major life decision that involves evaluating more than just the number of facilities or basic costs. Here are some critical factors to consider during your research:
- Location and accessibility: Evaluate the proximity to family, friends, and local amenities that are important to you. The community's location and ease of access can significantly impact your social life and overall well-being.
- Levels of care: Confirm that the community offers the full continuum of care you might need in the future, from independent living to skilled nursing and memory care.
- Financial stability: Given the significant financial commitment, it is wise to assess the community's financial health. Some states, like Virginia, regulate CCRCs and require them to file financial disclosure statements.
- Lifestyle and amenities: Look beyond the care services. Many modern CCRCs offer extensive amenities, such as fitness centers, dining options, and recreational activities, to foster an active and social lifestyle.
- Accreditation and reviews: Check if the community has voluntary accreditation from organizations like the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC). Additionally, look for reviews and ratings from reliable sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the nursing care portion of the community.
Conclusion
While a precise count of how many life care centers are there in the United States? is difficult to pinpoint, current industry estimates place the number of Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), which use the term "life care," at around 2,000 nationwide. Understanding that "life care" often refers to a specific contract type within a CCRC is crucial for navigating this market. For individuals considering these communities, the focus should be on the comprehensive level of care provided, the specific contract details, and the overall lifestyle offered, rather than just the total number of facilities. Conducting thorough research and weighing the benefits and costs of each option will lead to the most informed decision for your retirement years.
Life Care Centers of America: A prominent provider
One of the most well-known providers in this market is Life Care Centers of America (LCCA). This company operates or manages more than 200 skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and senior living campuses across 27 states. While a significant player, their network represents only a portion of the total number of life care and continuing care facilities in the country. LCCA's model includes skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and memory care services, with many of its campuses also offering independent and assisted living options. Looking at a specific company like LCCA highlights a key point: while many companies operate these centers, a large number of CCRCs are also run by non-profit organizations.
Choosing a CCRC or Life Plan Community
The CCRC market and its future
The CCRC market is evolving to meet the needs of a more active and health-conscious senior population. The industry has seen steady occupancy growth and a shift toward more vibrant, active-lifestyle-focused communities. The adoption of new technology and integrated wellness programs is also becoming more common, offering residents more robust health and social opportunities. For those interested in a community with a "life care" contract, understanding these trends is as important as knowing the number of facilities, as it helps identify modern, forward-thinking options that best fit your lifestyle and future needs.
