Is the Philippines Still a Good Place for Retirement Today?

Philippines Not in Top Ten Countries for Retirement, Dated 2020 

Are you planning to retire next year outside the US?  I have a number of friends who informed me that if Moron DJT( https://www.cbsnews.com/news/john-bolton-book-trump-revelations-the-room-where-it-happened/ ) gets elected, they will retire abroad. Is the Philippines still a good place to retire today? 💚💚

I did some search and here's the latest top 10 best countries for retirement from marketwatch.com dated February, 2020 based on housing, benefits/discounts, visas/residency, ease of fitting in, development, climate, health care, governance, cost of living and other factors. 

Ten best countries to retire abroad
1. Portugal
2. Panama
3. Costa Rica
4. Mexico
5. Colombia
6. Ecuador
7. Malaysia
8. Spain
9. France 
10. Vietnam

For details read: 

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/this-gorgeous-country-is-the-no-1-place-to-retire-abroad-and-you-can-do-it-on-just-2200-a-month-2020-01-02

Note: Personally, Marinduque, Philippines is still my number #1 Choice for Retirement.  https://whyretireinthephilippines.blogspot.com/search?q=place+for+retirement 

The following video was made 4 years ago. It is a nice ad for the Philippines, but is it still applicable today?  💚💚 

💜https://youtu.be/XuTow8dbWno?si=dpUW8Slfy9xm-oGx

Related Article written in 2019: https://hubpages.com/health/How-to-Live-or-Retire-in-the-Philippines-for-Less-than-1-500-a-Month

Macrine and I enjoying the Sunset at Our Retirement Home in the Philippines

THD Best of Senior Living Award Criteria

In my posting yesterday I mentioned that THD won an award as Best of Senior Living by A Place for Mom.com for 2024. One of my blog readers ask a question on the criteria of how THD got the award from A Place for Mom.com   I did some search, here's what I found.  

Here are the 3 basic criteria for the award offered annually.

• 1. Receive 25 or more reviews on APlaceforMom.com.
• 2. Attain an overall average rating of at least 4.5 stars for reviews ( max 5.0) or (10 for 10)
• 3. Offer assisted living, home care, independent living, skilled nursing, memory care or continuing care retirement communities.

According to their website about 1-2% of senior communities offering items #3 all over the US received the award annually.  Here in our area, the Heritage Downtown is the only one retirement community that received the award competing with several big, median and small size retiring communities in the East Bay. There are more than 30 senior retirement communities in the East Bay. Among THD competitors are The Kensington, Byron Park, and the several Atria Communities in the Area.  

The ratings from residents and their families are based on the Facility Amenities, Activities, Food and Meal Service, Transportation Services,  Staff ( Friendly or Not) and Location and other Factors. 

Here are the list of Retirement Communities in the East Bay with their Average Ratings for January 1 to December 31, 2023.   https://www.aplaceformom.com/awards/best-of-senior-living

https://www.aplaceformom.com/community/the-heritage-downtown-57903

In my review of THD recently, I gave it a rating of 4.5 out of 5.0 based on the Facility Amenities, Food, Activities, Staff ( Friendly or Not or well-managed ), Location and other factors such as the size of my patio and rooms and transportation and housekeeping services( cleanliness and overall ambiance).   

Marsha Kefer and I doing some Zumba Dancing Exercises-one of the many activities here at THD. You will never get bored here at THD. Activities are both run by Staff or Residents. 

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2024/02/looking-for-independent-living.html

There are 32 senior living communities in Walnut Creek and surrounding Areas as follows:

https://www.seniorhousingnet.com/seniorliving-search/walnut-creek_ca

A Place for Mom, founded in 2000, is a privately held, for-profit senior care referral service headquartered in New York, New York.The company provides personal and professional assistance to families in search of senior care options. Their service is free to families. They are paid by the senior living communities and homecare providers on its platform. A majority of the company is owned since August 2017 by equity capital firms General Atlantic and Silver Lake Insight Partners now owns a minority stake as part of the company's $175M capital raise in January 2022. Previously they used former Good Morning America host Joan Lunden in their advertising.

The Company provides information regarding more than 20,000 senior housing and homecare providers to seniors and their families throughout the United States and Canada through a network of local "senior living advisors". It also serves as a marketing tool for the thousands of senior housing communities and homecare providers it refers to. It is the largest such service in North America.In addition, A Place for Mom owns and operates SeniorAdvisor.com, a consumer ratings and reviews site for senior care providers across the U.S. and Canada.

A few residents moved here because of advertising from A Place for Mom. I learned first about THD from a Place for Mom Adviser. But I made my choice after visiting several retiring communities in the Walnut Creek Area. 

Meanwhile here's a referral offer of $500 from THD management.

ttps://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2024/02/referral-bonus-of-500-available-to-all.html

Meanwhile, here's my quote of the Day: I have learned more from my mistakes than from my successes-Sir Humphry Davy, English Chemist and Inventor    

Downsizing Versus Aging-in-Place

The following is an article I read recently that reminded me of a Bridge Buddy who has not made up her mind whether to downsize and reside here at THD or age-in-place in her huge single residence home with a huge backyard and all the familiar items/properties she has owned for several decades. I hope by reading this she will make a decision soon whether to downsize or remain in her home.     

I wrote an article that Downsizing is not for the Faint-hearted recently. In that article I described how I felt getting rid of my possessions via estate sales, donations or just thrashing it, because I will be moving to a smaller place.  I did age-in-place for a year with the help of Home Care Aides and occasional visits from closed relatives. I felt that after one year of living alone, it is time for me not to be isolated, be able to play bridge again and establish new friendships in a an active senior Living Community. THD is a perfect place for me for my well-thought downsizing decision.  Downsizing was not easy, but after making a decision, I felt it was the best decision for the duration of the last stages of my life here on Planet Earth. 

https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2023/03/downsizing-is-not-for-faint-hearted.html 

Here's a summary of the article I read on Downsizing versus Aging-in-Place written by Lauren Rosales-Shepard and the link is posted below. The other link is a  article on the same subject. Please take time to read.  

"The older population in the United States is greatly increasing, with the number of seniors (those 65 or older) expected to almost double by 2060. Life expectancy, too, has climbed. As a result, a growing number of homeowners find themselves en route to retiring into a conundrum: do I stay in my home and age in place, or do I downsize? 

The pros and cons of each option seem at first obvious. If you downsize to a smaller home, you will have much less space to maintain (especially yard-wise!). On the other hand, if you stay in your home and age in place, you’re in your home–you know the space, the community, already. Downsizing requires moving, and when has that ever been anyone’s idea of A Good Time? But your current home is full of empty rooms, now that your children have grown up and flown the coop; it can be lonely. 

It’s a tremendously weighty decision. Like any life-altering choice, there are complexities to consider, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. 

Downsizing

If the members of your household have dwindled to two or one, you would undoubtedly embrace being responsible for less space. You would have fewer rooms to clean if you downsized, not to mention less (if any) yard to mow and rake. Plus, were you to relocate, you might possess the luxury of choice–without needing to be near a job, you could choose to be near family, or in a more appealing climate, for example. 

Homeowners who look to relocate into a smaller autonomous home may, however, run into severe cost issues. Purchasing a home in today’s market will subject one to skyrocketing mortgage rates amidst ever-rising inflation. Both of these factors may make it more difficult for you to sell your current home for the funds to purchase a new one—that is, if you can even find one! There is an extreme housing shortage. In addition, there is an even more blatant scarcity of smaller homes, as they are simply no longer being built. But seniors who would be open to apartment-living (no yard!) face an obstacle, too: the paucity of multifamily housing. Nationwide, there is very little zoning that permits multifamily housing to be built. Zoning often not only prohibits multifamily dwellings in particular, but also might limit the heights of buildings and include minimum lot-size and square-footage requirements. Those apartments that can be built tend to be luxury condos, or publicly-subsidized low-income housing–nothing in the middle, which is often the space that seniors on a fixed income would financially occupy. 

Similar dynamics exist in the senior living industry, which is continuously innovating to present desirable options to aging adults of means. Senior living facilities often put on social events, and promote opportunities for residents, however independently they are able to live, to meet, mingle, and form friendships. This is great news for one’s health, as social isolation and loneliness frequently have deleterious effects on seniors–indeed, the related health risks are comparable to that of smoking and obesity! Frequent social interactions can slow symptoms of dementia in aging adults". 

Aging-in-Place


"According to AARP surveys, 90% of seniors (65+) want to age in place–in other words, to remain in their current homes. The main reason for this preference is a desire for social connectedness; those who are already familiar with and active in their communities do not want to lose that built-in social network. Although many assisted living facilities, retirement homes, and luxury senior living developments do feature social activities and engagement, it is daunting for anyone to start from scratch and facilitate new friendships. It can be even more difficult for an aging individual who is more likely to want to cling to the familiar. 

Familiarity is also key to a sense of agency and independence. While a new neighborhood could be difficult to navigate, if one were to age in place it might be easier to satisfy the basic needs–groceries, clothing, appointments, etc–without help. Access to affordable transportation options tends to be scarce, and so those aging adults who cannot or do not drive themselves become isolated and are far less likely to take active steps for self-care. Those who opt to age in place frequently do so because it seems like the best way to maintain their autonomy for as long as possible. 

There are significant factors to take into account when considering aging in place. Do you foresee yourself needing assistance with activities of daily living? Will you require help with chores and additional home/yard maintenance? Even if you don’t think that either of these possibilities belong to the near future, it’s important to make a plan just in case. This plan can include at least budgeting for various potential home modifications, as well as for services you may later need–lawn care, snow removal, grocery delivery, dog-walking, routine in-home medical care, etc. If you live in a two-story house, you should be especially cognizant of the potential renovations that you may require: installing or tightening handrails, placing extra lighting and non-slip material on the stairs, even installing a lift in case of extreme loss of mobility. Bathroom renovations, in particular, may need to be extensive. You may want to consider whether it is possible to relegate your daily life to the main floor alone, as well( Does not apply if you reside in a ranch style home-no second floor as in my case)". 

Conclusion: There is no one right answer for everyone. Aging-in-place may be statistically popular, but not all places are suitable for that plan. You must think of your own priorities, financial situation, as well as health profile to make the most logical, beneficial decision. Be sure to talk to your doctor, your family members, and your heirs to gather the most relevant and informed perspectives.

Source: https://www.unison.com/blog/downsizing-vs-aging-in-place/#

https://margolisbloom.com/planning-for-life/should-seniors-downsize-or-age-in-place/

Ten Essentials for Successful Retirements

In 2002,I retired from FDA. My first action was to kept busy, so I would not feel empty, useless and bored. I started to blog. My first article was "The Joys of Retirement" posted at http://lifeinus1960present.blogspot.com.

The following article by Philip Moeller summarizes the ten essential requirements that made retirement a success. If your are near retirement years, this article must be a "must" read for you. I guarantee if you score an "A" in the 10 items listed, you will be happy in your retirement years and you do not have to be envious of me!

"Day after day brings new headlines of problems and pitfalls for retirees. We save too little and can't afford to stop working. We make poor investment decisions and don't know how to get the most out of our shrunken nest eggs. Social Security benefits may be cut. Medicare benefits also face trims. The national ship of state is going down the tubes in so many ways, and no one will be handing out life preservers to older citizens as the ship sinks.

Maybe these are all true and worrisome trends. Nonetheless, people will retire, and many of them will enjoy terrific lives in their later years. They will join millions of other Americans who have managed to do the same. What are their secrets? Here, culled from research studies and retirement experts, are 10 essentials for successful retirements.

1) Planning. Successful retirements rarely happen by accident. They require planning, and it should begin well before retirement begins. Younger people do not need to have any detailed plan for their later years. Heck, many probably don't know what they'll be doing next year. But they should set up tax-favored retirement investments, contribute enough to trigger the top employer match, and place their money in stable and safe investments. Older people should begin in their 50s to ask questions about the adequacy of their retirement funds. They also should attack some of the big retirement issues -- where do they want to live, how do they want to spend their time, and the like. At whatever age retirement becomes financially viable or physically necessary, they should have a more detailed plan and ways to achieve it.

2) Budgeting. Most people overestimate their retirement income and underestimate their retirement expenses. Well before the regular paychecks stop, many successful retirees will have taken a hard-nosed look at their retirement income and expense needs. Expense budgeting is crucial. Once the income and expense sides of your personal ledger have been completed, you can see if there's a gap that needs to be closed. Most likely, it will be closed by trimming expenses. Many experts say it's a good idea to look at your locked-in sources of retirement income --Social Security and traditional pensions -- and match this amount to your fixed expenses -- mortgage, utilities, insurance, fixed debt payments, operating expenses for your car, and basic household costs for food and other necessities. Then, look at the likely income stream from your investments and use those funds for discretionary spending on vacations, restaurants, and the like. This way, if returns on your investments don't fare as well as you thought, you won't have to eat into your investment accounts to pay expenses. When markets recover, you can resume your spending.

3) Homework. Retirement is many things but a life of leisure usually must be preceded by a lot of homework. This is particularly true when it comes to healthcare costs. The average 65 year old couple will spend $250,000 on health care during the rest of the their lives -- the single largest unknown expense for most people. Medicare was complicated enough before health reform was enacted. Anyone planning to retire in the next several years should spend time understanding how the new law might affect them. Other areas that can benefit from some study: how healthy is the economy of the area you're thinking of choosing for your retirement home; what are the state and local tax rates in that area; what are state estate taxes like; do you have a good approach to spending down your assets in retirement, and, what is the best strategy for you about when to begin claiming Social Security benefits.

4) Realism. None of the planning, budgeting, and homework you do will provide the basis for a successful retirement unless you're realistic in your assessments and assumptions. Most people, for example, actually retire several years before they earlier said they would. Likewise, they say they will continue to work well past their 65th birthday. They don't. You need to be honest with yourself.

5) Balance. The key to a lot of good things in life is a sense of balance. Successful retirements involve a good balance between expectations and reality. This doesn't mean sacrificing your dreams. It does mean road-testing your dreams to see what it would take to make them possible.

6) Health. No surprise here. Good health is the "knock on wood" wish of every retiree. What's different today than a generation ago is the widespread recognition that good health is no accident but the probable result of good diet and exercise habits. These habits need to start now, not when you're 70 years old, although it's never too late to begin. It's been proven that strenuous exercise, with heavy weights and sweat-inducing cardiovascular workouts, can help even people in their 80s and 90s. Investing in good health is as important as socking money away in retirement accounts.

7) Family and Friends. As people look forward to their later years, the priorities that loom largest tend to be people, not possessions or unshared travel experiences. As with your health, good relations with friends and family members need to be developed and nurtured over time. If there are people you know you want to spend time with when you're retired, figure out what you need to do today to enhance the odds you will have the strong bonds you desire in the future. Having honest conversations with children is crucial, especially when it comes to issues surrounding grandchildren. Maybe you want to live close to grandchildren and see them a lot. Do your kids feel the same way? Do they expect you to be constantly on call to be free babysitters? How would you feel about that? Do you expect your kids to be constantly on call to help you out with household chores and errands? Make sure you're all on the same page before taking important actions you might later regret.

8) Socialization. Loneliness is a killer for older people. This is especially true for men, who are seen in surveys to have harder times than women making friends, and tend not to ask for help or reach out to loved ones. If you don't have a rich circle of family and friends, and aren't likely to build one before retirement, perhaps a senior community makes sense. Even if you don't need help due to physical ailments, you might need the structured social support services that a retirement community can offer. Don't be in denial on this one. Looking through scrapbooks of old family pictures gets, well, old after a while.

9) Legacy. People who are happy in retirement frequently have taken care of major life decisions rather than leaving them to some future date. Uncertainty is stressful, and stress should not be a sought-after condition at any stage in life and especially not in retirement. Questions about passing on wealth and possessions should be decided when you're healthy, and should be discussed with family members and other loved ones. Maybe your daughter doesn't really want your wedding china. That doesn't mean she's a bad person. Maybe you think leaving college money for grandchildren is a great idea. But you should discuss it with your kids. If you trust your children, perhaps they should control these funds. Where do you want to be buried when you die, or do you even want to be buried? If you're married, do you and your spouse agree on these matters? These are discussions you should have.

10) Acceptance. With due apologies for being presumptuous, let me suggest that we all have made many, many mistakes by the time we retire. Often, the people we'd view as the most successful are the hardest on themselves as they approach and enter retirement. Maybe it's workplace failures. Or personal relationships. Often, it's the quality of parenting. Whatever it may be, carrying this baggage around with you during retirement is a heavy, heavy burden. It's nearly impossible to win the blame game. If you play the comparison game, you can always find someone who did things better than you. You may need professional help with this, but forgiving yourself for being human can be a liberating act as you approach retirement and your later years.

Philippines no longer the best Place for Retirement

In a recent issue of CNN magazine, The Philippines was not included in the list of of top 4 places that US and Canadian retirees favorite destination for retirement. I am indeed wondering, since the standard of living, climate and several other advantages ( English speaking and friendly natives) in the Philippines are the best in the world.

Is the country's infrastructure, safety concerns ( Southern Philippines) and political corruption, the reasons why it was not listed as one of the best places in the world to retire? What do you think? The following are the four overseas places listed in the article published in the CNN magazine just recently.

1. Cuenca, Ecuador Population: 330,000 Starting home price: $75,000* 2011 price change: N.A.

These days overseas retirement has gotten so popular that Costa Rica is close to becoming a cliché. "This generation is more open-minded, better educated, better traveled, and healthier than any generation before it," says Kathleen Peddicord, founder of publishing group Live and Invest Overseas. Combine that with favorable foreign-exchange rates and a crisis that wiped out many nest eggs, she says, and "the idea is suddenly not so crazy anymore."

In recent years, Cuenca, Ecuador, has become a favorite of Peddicord and others as a retirement destination, and it's easy to see why. Cuenca offers temperate weather, beautiful architecture, and modern health care, all for a fraction of the cost of living in the U.S. and the national currency is the U.S. dollar. That opening-home-price figure, $75,000, is not a typo. Health care and property taxes are dirt-cheap too.

The coastal city is currently home to a few thousand expat retirees, mostly from the U.S. and Canada. New arrivals can choose from one of the many new condo developments or spring for a landscaped historic estate for $300,000. One thing to keep in mind: Ecuador is a developing country, and creature comforts like, say, American electronics are often either unavailable or command a premium. But for today's globetrotting, adventure-seeking retirees, that's part of the thrill.

2. Bangkok Population: 8.2 million Median home price: N.A. 2011 price change: N.A. With cost of living in Asia far lower than in the states, adventurous retirees are heading to Thailand for deals.

3. Panama City Population: 430,299 Median home price: N.A. 2011 price change: N.A. Decent infrastructure and friendly tax policies have made Panama's capital an expatriate favorite.

4. Paris Population: 2.3 million Median home price: N.A. 2011 price change: N.A. The City of Light is pricey, but rich in both culture and health care.

In a recent posting from CNBC, ten places to retire based on the cost of living, housing costs, health care (both quality and accessibility), cultural and recreational options and if there’s already an expat community there, the Philippines was not also in the list. In this list includes the following places arranged in alphabetical order: Buenos Aires( Argentina), Corozal (Belize), Central Valley, Atenas( Costa Rica), Languedoc-Rousillo (France), Le Marche (Italy), Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Granada ( Nicaragua), Boquette ( Panama), Cascais (Portugal) and Costa del Sol (Spain).

Note: In my list, Marinduque, Philippines is still the number one place in the world for retirement (not the big cities in the Philippines).

Philippines Not in Top Ten Countries for Retirement

Are you planning to retire next year outside the US? I have a number of friends who informed me that if Moron DJT( https://www.cbsnews.com/news/john-bolton-book-trump-revelations-the-room-where-it-happened/ ) gets reelected, they will retire abroad.

I did some search and here's the latest top 10 best countries for retirement from marketwatch.com dated February, 2020 based on housing, benefits/discounts, visas/residency, ease of fitting in, development, climate, health care, governance, cost of living and other factors.

Ten best countries to retire abroad
1. Portugal
2. Panama
3. Costa Rica
4. Mexico
5. Colombia
6. Ecuador
7. Malaysia
8. Spain
9. France
10. Vietnam

For details read:

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/this-gorgeous-country-is-the-no-1-place-to-retire-abroad-and-you-can-do-it-on-just-2200-a-month-2020-01-02

Note: Personally, Marinduque, Philippines is still my number #1 Choice for Retirement.  https://whyretireinthephilippines.blogspot.com/search?q=place+for+retirement 

Related Article: https://hubpages.com/health/How-to-Live-or-Retire-in-the-Philippines-for-Less-than-1-500-a-Month

Macrine and I enjoying the Sunset at Our Retirement Home in the Philippines

Why I Chose Walnut Creek Over Iloilo City or Marinduque in My Retirement

Recently, I came across an article that brought a smile to my face. The Philippines was recognized as one of the best places in the world to retire in 2026. Even more gratifying was reading that Iloilo City, the city of my birth, was ranked as the number one city in the Philippines for retirement.

As I shared this news with some of my fellow senior residents here at The Heritage Downtown (THD) in Walnut Creek, California, one of them asked me a question that I have heard several times before:

"If Iloilo City is such a wonderful place to retire and you also have a beautiful beach retirement home in Marinduque, why are you living here in Walnut Creek instead?"

It was an excellent question.

On paper, the answer would seem obvious. I was born in Iloilo, often called the City of Love. It is a city rich in history, warm hospitality, excellent cuisine, and a relaxed pace of life. Every street corner carries memories of my childhood and my formative years before life took me to many different places.

Then there is Marinduque, the "Heart of the Philippines." Through my beloved wife, Macrine Nieva Jambalos Katague, I became part of one of the island's distinguished families. Over the years, we built not just memories there but also a beach house that we envisioned as our retirement haven. It was a place where we imagined spending peaceful days together, watching the sunrise over the sea and welcoming family and friends.

That was our dream. Life, however, sometimes rewrites our plans.

When Macrine passed away in 2020 after sixty-three wonderful years of marriage, the dream changed. The beach house remained, but it no longer felt like the retirement we had envisioned together. The place was still beautiful, but the companionship that gave it meaning was gone.

As we grow older, we realize that home is not simply where the scenery is most beautiful or where the cost of living is the lowest. Home is where the people we love are.

Today, all of my immediate family is here in the United States. My three living children are here. My six grandchildren are here. My two great-grandsons are here. Their birthdays, graduations, family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and everyday lives are here.

At ninety-one years of age, those moments have become more precious than ever.

Living in Walnut Creek allows me to remain close to them. I can watch another generation of our family grow. I can celebrate their accomplishments and enjoy the simple privilege of being present in their lives.

That is something no retirement ranking can measure.

Of course, I still love the Philippines. I will always be proud to have been born in Iloilo. Marinduque will forever occupy a special place in my heart because it is intertwined with my memories of Macrine and the life we built together.

One can have more than one home.

For immigrants like me, this is often our reality. Our roots remain firmly planted in the country of our birth, while our branches have grown in another land where our children and grandchildren now flourish. We carry both places within us.

I have lived in America since 1960. It has given me educational opportunities, a rewarding scientific career, and a fulfilling life. Yet I have never forgotten my Filipino heritage. Through my blogs over the past seventeen years, I have tried to introduce readers around the world to the history, culture, food, traditions, and remarkable people of the Philippines.

In many ways, although I now live in California, a part of me still lives every day in Iloilo and Marinduque.

Would I recommend the Philippines as a retirement destination? Absolutely.

Its warm climate, welcoming people, affordable lifestyle, rich culture, and strong sense of community make it one of the finest places to spend one's retirement years.

But for me, at this stage of life, another consideration outweighs all the others.

The greatest luxury in retirement is not a beautiful house by the beach.

It is having your family close enough to embrace.

So while my heart will always belong to Iloilo and Marinduque, my home today is Walnut Creek, California, because that is where the people I love most are gathered.

In the end, retirement is not merely about choosing the best place.

It is about choosing the place where your heart finds its greatest peace.

Personal Notes : Timelines and Places of David B Katague Retirement 

2002- 2017- Spent 4 to 5 months out of the year  between Marinduque, Philippines  and  Fair Oaks, California. Macrine and I called ourselves the Snowbirds. Because when it gets cold here in the US we fly to the Philippines and stay in our Beach House, Chateau Du Mer.

2018-2023- Fair Oaks, California, (the  Eastern suburb of Sacramento, CA)

2023 to the Present- The Heritage Downtown, Walnut Creek, California 

Finally, My Photo of the Day: My 3-Year Old Avocado Tree in my Bedroom

   

Senior Rental Living versus Continuing Care Retirement Communities ( CCRC)

 Are You Looking for Over 55+ Community? These are the 2 Popular Choices.

A continuing care retirement community (CCRC) sometimes known as a life plan community, is a type of retirement community in the U.S. where a continuum of aging care needs—from independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care—can all be met within the community. These various levels of shelter and care may be housed on different floors or wings of a single high-rise building or in physically adjacent buildings, such as garden apartments, cottages, duplexes, mid- and low-rise buildings, or spread out in a campus setting. The emphasis of the CCRC model is to enable residents to avoid having to move, except to another level of care within the community, if their needs change.( From Wikipedia)

 

In my search for an independent living facility in the East Bay, California, I had received information on the Financial burdens if you want to reside in an CCRC facility. The First CCRC that I received information was the Paradise Valley Estate in Fairfield. The place is beautiful if you love playing golf but the initial fee/entrance was $650K. For details visit their website:

 https://pvestates.com/

The second CCRC facility that gave me financial information is the Viamonte in Walnut Creek, CA.  Here's a letter I received recently. 

 

"Thank you for your interest in Viamonte at Walnut Creek, a lifestyle community for folks like you who thoughtfully plan for the future.  Viamonte at Walnut Creek is the brand new dynamic retirement community which recently opened!  It offers comprehensive amenities and services through experienced staff in various areas including hospitality, dining, wellness, healthcare, technology and much more.  Viamonte Life incorporates multiple levels of living environments with Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care-  including the option to receive assistance in the privacy of your very own home.   

Here is some preliminary information on our fee structure since you are inquiring.  Entrances Fees are currently starting in the mid $700,000 range paid in full upon move-in and receiving 75% Repayment when no longer living at the Community.  Monthly Fees for services are currently starting at $4,000.  We are not a rental community in case that is what you are looking for.  As a new and filling community many of our 15 floor plans are sold out -I would be happy to discuss further what the available floor plans are.

Currently, we are still taking fully refundable reservation deposits on residences and offering Limited Time Benefits -lucrative financial savings!   You are invited to schedule a visit to tour our Community and Model Homes!  However, please do not delay, as many floor plans are already sold out.   

Please call or email me so we can schedule your visit soon.  We have available appointment times Monday-Friday ".

 For details visit their website:https://viamonteliving.org/

 I got another E-mail from Via Monte Today

 

1. Resident-centered Culture: Our residents, coming from from all walks of life and equipped with diverse expertise and talents, serve on our Resident Council and a myriad of interesting Resident Committees, including a Programs and Activities Committee, a Wellness Committee, and a Dining Committee, to name just a few. These groups are the engine of Viamonte, facilitating much of the resident-initiated programming and contributing significantly to how the community functions.

2. Dedicated Team: The Viamonte Team is made up of dedicated team members who go above and beyond, have provided years of service to our residents in Sequoia Living communities, and consistently exemplify our core values of Serivice, Integrity, Stewardship, Teamwork, Excellence, and Respect. And we celebrate those team members!

3. Location & Natural Beauty: At the basis of every great story is an ideal setting. Ours is here at the foot of Mt. Diablo in beautiful Walnut Creek. Viamonte residents are amazed by the natural beauty of the campus, its proximity to the mountains, and the breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets. In terms of access, residents can stroll into The Orchards for convenient shopping, dining, and socializing; investigate the attractions of beautiful downtown Walnut Creek; or take a shuttle to the BART station to access the treasures and pleasures of the Bay Area.

4. Unparallelled Art Collection: From the outdoor sculptures that decorate Viamonte’s lawns to the original commissioned works that adorn the community’s corridors, Viamonte’s thoughtful contemporary art collection is integral to the design and furnishings of the community. And to help residents take in the full experience of that art collection, a Viamonte resident who is a former docent provides virtual guided “Curiosity Art Walks” of the campus exhibits, encouraging residents to study the carefully chosen works of art, consider the artists’ intentions, and pique their curiosity.

5. Creativity: Viamonte is an eclectic community of accomplished, inspired, and creative individuals—a community of artists, photographers, writers, gardeners, musicians, teachers, and travelers. From art classes, curiosity art walks, and resident art shows, to poetry sharing, photography contests, writing programs, dance classes, and the production of a quarterly anthology of resident-created works—Viamonte’s talented residents generate no shortage of creative, life-enriching opportunities for one another.

6. Pet-friendly Lifestyle: Viamonte’s pet-friendly culture is just one of the many warm and fuzzy aspects of life at Viamonte. Residents stay fit while walking their dogs along the scenic pathway located behind the community, complete with dog-walking stations. Their furry friends are kept fresh, thanks to Viamonte’s on-campus doggy spa, and are treated to a pet nibble each time they pass the concierge desk, where a jar full of treats is kept. And not least, residents (and their beloved four-legged friends) make new friends in Viamonte’s Happy Tails Club.

7. Resort-like Fitness Center: Viamonte residents are active and engaged, living a life centered around well-being. Our first-class Fitness Center is a place where residents can refuel, rejuvenate, and relax. The Center’s brand-new gym is furnished with high-tech fitness equipment; the indoor pool hosts aquatic classes; and the serene spa and salon provide a sancuary for selfcare. Quality fitness programming includes yoga, Pilates, stretching, and access to customized workouts with personal trainers.

8. State-of-the-art Wellness Center (Clinic): In addition to the full continuum of care provided on campus, Viamonte’s top-tier Wellness Center provides residents with onsite clinical services; access to outside providers, including podiatrists, hearing care specialists, and mobile dentists, who are brought in regularly based on resident need; and access to convenient, onsite rehabilitation and therapy services. Wellness programming includes classes and workshops on nutrition, balance, strength, and fall prevention, among other wellness topics.

9. Social Events & Activities: In addition to the many classes and programs offered through Viamonte’s fitness and wellness centers, the campus itself—with its lush gardens and courtyards, bocce ball court, and meandering pathways through the community—provides an oasis for outdoor activities and nature-inspired wellness opportunities. Residents also enjoy a wide range of social and cultural events, from music concerts to discussion groups, game days, lectures, arts programs, book clubs, walking and hiking groups, music classes, jazz café, coffee hours, happy hours, support groups, dances, volunteer work—and the list goes on!

10. Dining: Viamonte residents choose from an eclectic selection of culinary venues offering more dishes than their palates can imagine, all under the supervision of our gourmet chef and skilled culinary team. They enjoy the flexibility of dining in the venue of their choice, and whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, they are welcome to invite their friends and family to dine with them at Viamonte. Dining highlights include the following:

• seasonal menus that feature daily specials and local fare
• a flexible dining plan providing each resident with monthly credits good for use at all dining venues
• healthy food choices that offer lower sodium, fat, and sugar content
• onsite catering for special events

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What is An Independent Living Facility? By Chris Harper

Independent living communities cater to independent-minded seniors who no longer wish to live alone in their own homes. These communities offer seniors all of the privacy of living at home, but within the context of a connected and welcoming community. Many independent living communities, including Arbor, also offer additional help for seniors who have chronic health issues or need assistance with daily tasks.

In independent living, seniors participate in community events and outings, can take classes or attend group meetups, and enjoy gourmet meals in lush settings. The focus is on community, although seniors live in private units and do not have to participate in any specific activity.

The benefits of independent living are myriad, including:

• More social connections.
• A beautiful home without any work.
• Help when you need it.
• Potentially lower costs, since seniors no longer have to fund home ownership
• Plenty of activities.
• A chance to keep learning.
• Caregiver support and family education about aging, dementia, and other concerns.

Many independent living communities enable seniors to age in place by offering assisted living and memory care within the same community.

The primary drawback of independent living is that seniors must move out of their homes.

What is a CCRC?

Continuing care retirement communities are communities or neighborhoods where seniors can age in place in a freestanding home, apartment, or condo. For seniors who crave their own space but who want the reassurance of help when they need it, they’re a great option. CCRCs often offer activities for seniors, but the focus is less on daily activities and more on supporting seniors’ desire to remain independent.

The benefits of a CCRC include:

• A chance to live in a beautiful neighborhood alongside other seniors
• Aging in place as your needs change
• Neighborhood amenities such as a pool and/or workout room
• Caregivers and support staff who come to you

The drawbacks of a CCRC include:

• Fewer social connections. CCRCs tend to offer fewer events and activities, so seniors don’t have as many opportunities to make friends.
• High costs. CCRCs are significantly more expensive than any other senior living options. They tend to charge hefty entrance fees—$100,000 to $1,000,000, and sometimes even more.
• Isolation. If the CCRC is not located near local attractions or amenities, or if it does not offer transportation, seniors may struggle to remain engaged with their communities.
• Less caregiver support. In CCRCs, the focus is on supporting senior health, not helping the entire family.

How to Make the Decision

For seniors who dislike the idea of community living and who can afford it, CCRCs can be an enticing option. These communities are out of reach for most seniors, however, and independent living often offers better benefits. So which one is right for you?

A CCRC could be a good choice if:

• Your primary concern is getting help to age in place.
• You want to live in a standalone home, not a unit that is part of a larger community.
• You need less support for daily activities and entertainment.
• You can afford to make a significant investment in senior living.
• You’re anxious about living alone at home, but don't necessarily want to move to senior living.

Independent living could be a great option if:

• A CCRC appeals to you, but you can’t afford it.
• Finances are a key concern, and home ownership is becoming too expensive.
• You want support to remain active in your community.
• You want your family to be involved, and to get lots of support.
• You relish the chance to make new friends and embrace new interests.
• You want a day full of activities, as well as a beautiful place to eat with friends.

Retirement can be anything you want it to be. The right senior living solution helps you make your retirement dreams a reality.

https://www.arborcompany.com/blog/know-the-difference-independent-living-vs.-a-ccrc 

Personal Note: My Future Home, The Heritage Downtown(THD) in Walnut Creek is not a CCRC, but primarily a rental independent living facility. The entrance fee is reasonable and affordable. However, the monthly rental fee is higher compared to the average monthly fee for a typical CCRC.