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Retirement in Raleigh: What Makes This City a Top Choice for Seniors?

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Often ranked as one of the best US cities for retirees, Raleigh is chock-full of historic charm, vibrant culture, and exciting opportunity. Combining this with its top-tier healthcare amenities, welcoming community, and lush scenery, it’s no wonder Raleigh ranks so high as a wonderful place to explore a new phase of life.

Mild Climate

Raleigh is known for its warm, temperate weather while still offering four distinct seasons.

Temperature ranges for each season include: 

  • Spring: 65°F to 80°F (highs), 40°F to 60°F (lows)
  • Summer: 85°F to 90°F (highs), 65°F to 70°F (lows)
  • Fall: 60°F to 80°F (highs), 40°F to 60°F (lows)
  • Winter:  50°F to 55°F (highs), 30°F to 35°F (lows)

This makes Raleigh a great city for older adults, as they don’t have to deal with harsh winters or oppressively hot summers that can impact mobility. Spring and fall bring beautiful, full blooms and rich foliage — making a quick stroll outside a dazzling event.

Furthermore, Raleigh’s mild climate makes it easy to stay active all year long. Take up gardening, leaf-peeping, golf, and more all while enjoying comfortable temperatures and lovely sights.

Access to Quality Healthcare Services

As you age, having quick access to trusted healthcare organizations is crucial. Raleigh is home to multiple highly-rated medical facilities offering compassionate, tailored healthcare.

Medical facilities near or in Raleigh include: 

  • Duke Raleigh Hospital
  • UNC REX Healthcare
  • WakeMed

Offering cardiac, orthopedic, and geriatric care, these hospitals provide key medical services catering to aging populations. Having access to such trusted institutions not only promotes health, but peace of mind, too.

Opportunities for Community

Raleigh is beloved by many for its small town charm and big city opportunities. It’s the perfect location to immerse yourself and explore new passions without excessive overwhelm.

It’s got something for everyone, including: 

  • Fitness groups
  • Robust food scene
  • Live music 
  • Continued education 
  • Volunteer opportunities 

And the list goes on. 

Another key reason why Raleigh is a great choice for seniors is its accessibility. Many community hubs are a quick walk or card ride away, making it easy to establish yourself in town.

Explore our Raleigh Retirement Community

The Oaks at Whitaker Glen is nestled in the heart of Raleigh, providing our residents with the chance to explore its many offerings. Whether you’re looking for the perfect fitness class or ready to dive into the food scene — and anything in between — Raleigh’s got you covered. 

Learn why it’s a great fit by scheduling a tour with our Raleigh retirement community today.

Schedule a Tour
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Top Questions to Ask When Touring a CCRC

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Touring a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) can stir up a variety of emotions, from excitement to inspiration, or even, uncertainty.

Since CCRCs offer so much, from community opportunities to health care and lifestyle amenities, it’s best to come to you or your family member’s tour prepared with a few key questions. These questions will allow you to make the proper decision based on you or your family’s needs. 

Below are the key topics to focus on during your next tour of a CCRC.

What Are the Levels of Care Offered?

Based on the continuum of care model, CCRCs provide services for residents at varying stages of older age.

Levels of care often include: 

  • Independent living
  • Assisted living
  • Skilled nursing care 
  • Memory care

It’s important to ask if each of these care models are offered and how a CCRC resident will be able to access these services. Furthermore, asking about the credentials of the care team is essential, as this allows you to have peace of mind about you or your loved one’s stay.

What Is the Community Like?

A foundational aspect of CCRCs is their commitment to cultivating a strong community for residents. It becomes a place to make meaningful connections and enjoy a range of new, exciting experiences. 

When touring a CCRC, pay attention to the environment and what’s available to residents. 

Take note of: 

  • Dining facilities & arrangements
  • Amenities & range of activities 
  • Overall atmosphere

If you can, it’s a good idea to chat with current residents about their experience as well. This will give first-hand perspective on living at the CCRC you’re touring. 

What Are the Payment Options?

Payment options at CCRCs vary depending on what financial model they use. In many cases, CCRCs fall under one of three following contracts. 

These include: 

  • Type A (Lifecare)
  • Type B (Modified)
  • Type C (Fee-for-service)

Type A contracts will have a higher fee and monthly cost in exchange for more predictable health care expenses in the future. Type B usually involves a higher fee upfront with the offer of some health care services, possibly at a reduced rate. Type C contracts provide low initial pricing and a monthly fee structure, with future care available at market rates when needed. While there are other contracts CCRCs offer, these three are the most popular. It’s important to note that all CCRC’s, regardless of contract type, include housing, meals, and amenities as part of the lifestyle package.

Life’s Next Big Chapter Starts Here

The Oaks at Whitaker Glen ensures every resident receives a tailored experience and reliable, empathetic care. Our team is proud to offer hand-selected amenities, stunning living spaces, plenty of community, and a culture of encouragement — Find out more by scheduling a tour with us today. 

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What Is a CCRC? A Guide for Seniors and Their Families

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Providing comfort and customizable lifestyle options, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) offer independence and peace of mind. 

CCRCs are a popular choice for older adults and their families, as they provide a new take on senior living. Expertly blending independent or assisted living with quality healthcare and community opportunities, CCRCs introduce a vibrant future to seniors.

What is a CCRC?

Continuing care retirement communities, or CCRCs, allow seniors to enjoy their next stage of life independently while also having access quality support as they need it. 

CCRCs provide residents with a tiered care approach, helping them move through life’s stages seamlessly with confidence. This adaptable support helps residents gently transition as needed between independent and assisted living to skilled nursing care. 

The manner in which CCRCs operate can vary. Some communities offer all-inclusive plans, covering key areas like housing, meal plans, and future health care needs. Others offer fee-per-service models in which residents pay as they need for specific services, including health care.

Key Benefits of CCRCs

There are countless benefits for older adults living at a CCRC. From community support and relationship building to the availability of different types of senior living options and health care services, CCRCs ensure residents can enjoy life on their own terms. 

Tailored Care

Living at a CCRC means access to a full spectrum of care, depending on the needs of each resident. Instead of going elsewhere for different care services, residents can receive it in one place. This continuity eliminates unnecessary juggling and the added stress of having to visit multiple locations and provider groups for different needs. 

Lifestyle Options

CCRCs provide a wide array of social engagements and lifestyle options residents can enjoy. There’s something for everyone, from social butterflies to more solitary residents. Many CCRCs will offer varied entertainment, dining, outdoor, fitness, and recreational activities that cater to a range of preferences — cultivating a sense of community. 

Peace of Mind

The role CCRCs have in creating peace of mind for families and residents alike is vital. Knowing their loved ones are safe, cared for, and happy provides a sense of comfort for the family and friends of residents. Conversely, residents can feel assured they can access top-tier care while exploring a new phase of life. 

Who Does a CCRC Serve?

CCRCs serve older adults, often in their early 60s and up, allowing them to enjoy independent living while providing care if needed. 

Typically, residents will enter a CCRC with little to no need for assistance. As they age in the CCRC, they can be confident their varying needs will be cared for by a compassionate, educated health care team. 

CCRCs serve a variety of residents, from those simply planning ahead to adult children who want the best for their aging parents. Additionally, CCRCs are a great option for aging couples. Even though they may have differing needs, a CCRC allows couples to age together with confidence.

Experience Tailored Care at The Oaks at Whitaker Glen

The Oaks at Whitaker Glen is a CCRC that prides itself on refined, elevated living. Located in the heart of Raleigh, we encourage residents to explore new passions and create memories with our vibrant community. 

Are you curious about all The Oaks at Whitaker Glen has to offer you or your family member? Schedule a tour with us today. 

Schedule a Tour