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The Long View: Benefits of a Life Plan Community Now and in the Future

Where do you see yourself in five years? It is the clichéd job-interview question we all have faced. Now, when you are retired, planning for the future is just as relevant. No one wants to think about a time when they cannot do everything themselves, but for most of us, it is an unavoidable fact of life. According to AARP, 7 in 10 Americans will need long-term care during their lifetime. Choosing the right life plan community not only enhances your active lifestyle today, it also helps you protect your assets and reduces worry.

What Is a Life Plan Community?

Also known as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), a life plan community is a residential enclave for older adults that offers a full continuum of care. Residents live independently in their own home with the reassurance that supported care options are available if and when their health needs change. Facilities and services vary, but Pines Village residents enjoy three gourmet restaurants, a personalized wellness program, an on-site medical practice and much more.

Time to Enjoy Active Living

One of the common myths about life plan communities is that they are only for the elderly and frail. In fact, the reverse is true. Most residents wish they had made the move earlier while they were healthy and active. This allows you to take advantage of all the activities on offer, whether you prefer painting or perfecting your golf swing, and build up a strong social circle. If and when you need care, you will be rooted in the community and can avoid a disorienting upheaval.

A Cost-Effective Solution

New Jersey is one of the five most expensive states for assisted living, with an average cost of $77,940 a year, according to Genworth data. The company projects this will rise by more than 30% within the next decade, and that is a conservative estimate judging by recent annual increases. A primary benefit of a life plan community is lower care costs in the future. Why wait? The longer you stay in your home, the more money and energy you will expend on home repairs. The team at Pines Village will take care of home maintenance, lawn care and monthly housekeeping from the moment you move in.

Rehab on Your Doorstep

Whether you suffer a stroke or become one of the 28% of Americans over 65 who fall each year, having rehabilitation services in your community is a huge advantage as you get older. The last thing you want when you are recuperating from an illness or accident is to spend weeks in an unfamiliar facility. At the Pines Village Senior Rehabilitation Center, licensed professionals offer personalized physical, speech and occupational therapy programs to aid your recovery.

More Support Should You Need It

Assisted living is not just for people who need help with basic daily activities like bathing or dressing. It benefits those who find it challenging to keep up with ADLs, the daily tasks that are essential to independent living such as cooking, eating, shopping and managing your medications.

The home-like assisted living neighborhood at Pines Village provides a balance of individually tailored care, community and privacy with high staff-to-resident ratios, beautifully designed common spaces and private suites with kitchenettes. And as your need for supported care increases, you can have the peace of mind in knowing it will be there for you.

Compassionate Care

The Alzheimer’s Association’s 2023 report reveals that more than 33% of Americans over the age of 85 have Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. Yet, according to U.S. News, only about 14% of assisted living communities offer specialized dementia care. Memory care residents at Pines Village benefit from home-like spaces, including a secure garden. They also enjoy innovative programs like music therapy, which has been shown to tap into memories and aid communication.

Isn’t it time you thought about where you want to be in 5, 10 or 20 years? Contact Pines Village today to schedule a tour and discover how our community for active adults can help you live your best life now and in the future.