Rental vs. Life Plan Communities: What’s Right for Your Future?

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As you consider your future retirement community choices, there are a variety of options to explore. Your choice will impact not just where you live but how you live, and how secure you feel about the years ahead.  

Staying in Your Current Home 

Remaining in your current home can be appealing, but as time goes on, it may become more challenging to manage. Your home might feel too large or burdensome to maintain, and loneliness could become an issue.  

Downsizing to an Active Adult Community 

Downsizing to a smaller home or moving into an active adult community can be a great way to simplify your life. These communities offer amenities and opportunities for social engagement. However, concerns about future care and changing needs might still linger. 

Moving into a Rental Community  

A rental community offers flexible living arrangements with options for shorter lease terms, such as month-to-month or annual agreements, making it easier to adapt to changing needs or preferences. The initial entrance fee is typically lower, functioning more like a security deposit rather than a substantial upfront cost. This financial flexibility allows residents to transition more easily into the community. Many rental communities also provide convenient services like housekeeping and meal plans, though these may come with additional fees on top of the standard monthly rent.  

While some level of care services may be available, it’s important to note that comprehensive care options may be limited or incur extra costs, as they are not always provided directly within the community. Also, in these pay-as-you-go options, there is no financial security or coverage for future higher levels of care.  

Overall, rental communities offer a range of services to suit varying needs while maintaining a focus on affordability and flexibility. 

The Benefits of a Life Plan Community 

One of the most advantageous moves you can make is transitioning to a Life Plan Community, such as those offered by Sun Health. These communities provide a unique blend of comfort, security, and flexibility. Here’s why a Life Plan Community might be the right choice for you: 

1. Peace of Mind for Health and Future Care 

Life Plan Communities offer comprehensive care options, ensuring that your care needs are met throughout your lifetime. Sun Health provides three distinct plans to cater to different needs: Traditional, Traditional with Healthcare, and Refundable. Each plan offers various levels of coverage and flexibility for your monthly service fee.  

  • Traditional Plan: Covers living costs and community amenities.  
  • Traditional with Healthcare Plan: Includes coverage for higher levels of care such as skilled nursing and memory support at the cost of independent living, which can save you money on future care needs. 
  • Refundable Plan: Allows for a portion of your entrance fee to be refunded to your estate if you move out or pass away. 

2. Financial Security and Tax Benefits 

The upfront entrance fee and monthly service fee in a Life Plan Community can often be tax-deductible, providing financial benefits. Additionally, unlike rental communities, Life Plan Communities typically operate as non-profits, which means they focus on your well-being rather than profit. 

3. Flexibility and Comprehensive Care 

With a Life Plan Community, you have the opportunity for vibrant independence today and trouble-free access to assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing, in a community you love. This means you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to worry about moving again due to changing health needs. This contrasts with rental communities, where you might face the uncertainty of lease renewals and lack of on-site care services. 

Taking the Next Steps 

Life Plan Communities recognize that successful aging involves more than just a place to live. They provide a vibrant lifestyle that addresses spiritual, mental, physical, and social needs, offering a supportive and engaging environment. 

To move into a Sun Health Life Plan Community, you’ll need to meet financial and medical criteria. A form from your doctor will confirm your ability to live independently. Acting sooner rather than later is crucial — waiting too long might affect your eligibility. 

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy luxurious living, fine dining, social activities, and top-notch fitness facilities. Nearly a quarter of our residents say they wished they had made the move sooner. Contact our sales team today to explore your options and start planning your future in a Sun Health Community. You deserve a home where you can thrive and enjoy living longer. 

For more information, please visit www.SunHealthCommunities.org.  

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