With 10,000 people turning 65 every day in the United States, the number of older adults will more than double over the next several decades to top 88 million people.
Older adults are expected to represent over 20% of the population by 2050.
Yehuda Tropper, CEO of Beca Life Settlements in New Jersey, said demand for continuing care retirement communities is seeing a lot of growth due to this demographic shift.
Tropper said a second reason demand is increasing is that more seniors are trying to avoid multiple disruptive moves as they age.
“A major benefit of these communities is that spouses can still live close to each other, even if one needs more intensive care than the other,” said Tropper. “Instead of needing someone to drive them to visit their spouse, the healthier spouse can simply walk or take a brief shuttle/golf cart ride to see their spouse in the same community with them, have lunch together, and maintain daily contact.”
The major downside is the significant financial cost, including high entrance fees and ongoing monthly costs. Tropper has observed more and more seniors looking for ways to fund entrance fees, which can start at $100,000 and go to over $1 million.
Compared to other senior care options, CCRCs are worth considering because they typically have proactive healthcare management, Tropper said.
“This preventive care and early intervention can make a huge difference in seniors’ health as they continue to age,” said Tropper.
Randall Yates, investment specialist at VA Loan Network in San Antonio, TX, has advised veterans on CCRCs.
“Demand for CCRCs is rising steadily — not just because people are living longer, but because retirees are actively planning for autonomy before decline sets in,” said Yates. “The appeal isn’t just healthcare access; it’s about future-proofing lifestyle. The smartest retirees I’ve worked with treat CCRCs like a real estate investment fused with long-term care insurance.”
For Yates’ veteran clients, he suggests utilizing VA benefits to offset early costs where possible and to prioritize CCRCs near VA medical centers for continuity of care without interruption.
“However, CCRCs are not all good,” said Yates. “Entry fees are high, and contract terms can be complex — especially Type A plans that require upfront commitment to future care.”
The biggest mistake retirees make? They wait too long.
“By the time someone needs greater levels of care, they may no longer qualify,” said Yates. “The best time to move is when you are still healthy enough to enjoy the amenities and qualify for medical underwriting.”
Bert Hofhuis, entrepreneur and founder of BankingTimes in the UK, said some people are starting the search for a CCRC before they turn 70.
“Some couples in their late 60s are already looking into these places and would rather be settled than make rushed decisions later,” said Hofhuis.
“Many retirees don’t have their kids nearby, and even if they do, they don’t want to put that pressure on them. They prefer having a plan that lets them stay independent. These communities offer that kind of setup.”
Hofhuis pointed out the benefits of living at a CCRC, saying residents have their own space with access to shared areas like cafés or gardens, and there are planned social activities. If their health changes, the care is already there.
When should people consider moving into a CCRC? While they still can take advantage of what the community has to offer.
“You get more value if you move in when you’re still active or healthy, since you can enjoy the community part of it,” said Hofhuis. “If you wait until your health takes a hit, you might miss out on the amenities being offered. You’ll still get care, but the transition is harder, because planning ahead while you still have options gives you more control and makes the later years less stressful. That peace of mind can go a long way, for you and for your family.”
