What Is a CCRC vs. Assisted Living?

Date: June 03, 2025 | Article | Reading Time: 5 minutes

As more families begin planning for senior living , the search often comes down to one key question: Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) vs. assisted living – which is right for us?

While both options offer care and support for older adults, they are built on very different models. And while Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) may seem like a one-size-fits-all solution, many seniors find that communities without large up-front costs – like The Delaney^® at The Vale – offer the flexibility, support, and lifestyle they truly want.

What Is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)?

A Continuing Care Retirement Community is also called a Life Plan or Entrance Fee Community. These campuses offer multiple levels of care – typically independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing – on one site. The idea is that as residents’ needs increase, they can move through the various levels of care without relocating to a different community.

When considering your options for senior living, you might be weighing the high upfront costs and long-term contracts of a traditional Continuing Care Retirement Community against a more flexible, needs-based model. At The Delaney at The Vale, we offer a modern approach that provides exceptional care without the financial burden or lifestyle limitations of a CCRC.

Here’s why more older adults and their families are choosing The Delaney at The Vale:

Most CCRCs charge a large entrance fee, ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Residents also pay a monthly fee – which can increase depending on their care needs and contract type.
While CCRCs promise future care, that care can come with significant medical costs, especially under fee-for-service plans.

This level of commitment may work for some families, but it’s not always necessary – or ideal.

a senior woman joyfully laughing in her living room

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living communities are designed for seniors who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, medication reminders, and meals – but still want to live as independently as possible.

Unlike CCRCs, assisted living typically does not require an entrance fee. Instead, residents pay a predictable monthly fee that covers:

Personalized support and care
Daily meals and housekeeping
Access to health services as needed
Social activities, events, and amenities

Assisted living offers just the right level of care without overcommitting to services you may never use. It’s a flexible and cost-effective alternative to the rigid structure of a CCRC, especially for families who want quality care without a long-term financial burden.

The Cost of Continuing Care vs. Assisted Living

CCRC Costs:

Entrance Fee: Often substantial and required up front – can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars
Monthly Fees: Vary depending on contract type (Life Care, fee-for-service, etc.) and level of care needed
Medical Costs: May increase significantly as higher levels of care are required

Assisted Living Costs:

Entrance Fee: There is no traditional entrance fee; however, a one-time community fee can be required at some communities in some states. Residents then pay a predictable monthly fee for their care and accommodations.
Monthly Fees: One predictable monthly payment that includes care, dining, and amenities
Medical Costs: Health services provided as needed, often at a lower cost than a CCRC

When families compare the cost of continuing care vs. assisted living, they often find assisted living is more accessible and less risky – especially when care needs are still relatively moderate.

The Future With Continuing Care – Is a CCRC the Right Choice?

While Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) appeal to some families seeking long-term predictability, they’re not always the best – or only – option. The high entrance fees and long-term contracts that often come with CCRCs can be a barrier, especially for seniors who prefer more flexibility.

Assisted living communities offer a more accessible and cost-effective solution for those who want support with activities of daily living (ADLs), engaging amenities, and the freedom to live on their terms – without a major up-front investment.

At The Delaney at The Vale, residents enjoy just that: a comfortable, worry-free lifestyle that provides the right level of care when needed – no entrance fee required. For many seniors, it’s the ideal blend of support and independence, offering peace of mind today and the flexibility to adapt for tomorrow.

Why Assisted Living May Be the Smarter Choice

While some seniors feel more secure locking in future care through a CCRC, that path isn’t necessary – or even practical – for everyone. In fact, many families prefer the flexibility, lower financial risk, and personalized support of assisted living.

At The Delaney at The Vale, we provide a high-quality, worry-free lifestyle for both couples and solo agers. Our community is designed for today’s older adults – those who value independence, vibrant social opportunities, and support that adapts as their needs change.

a senior man and his adult daughter hugging

Why Choose The Delaney at The Vale?

When weighing the choice between a CCRC vs. assisted living, it often comes down to what matters most: flexibility, personalized support, and financial peace of mind. You don’t need a high-cost, long-term contract to enjoy exceptional care and a vibrant lifestyle.

That’s why so many families are choosing The Delaney at The Vale—a refreshing alternative to traditional CCRCs that puts your needs, preferences, and peace of mind first:

No large entrance fee – just a predictable monthly fee that includes access to personalized health services
A worry-free lifestyle filled with engaging activities, delicious dining, and resort-style amenities
Assisted living and memory care options designed to evolve with your needs
Peace of mind for families without the long-term financial commitment of a CCRC

Discover the freedom of assisted living without the financial burden of a CCRC.
At The Delaney at The Vale, we deliver thoughtful care, meaningful connection, and day-to-day ease –all without an entrance fee.