Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) are the oldest form of seniors housing in America, dating back to the late 1800s.

CCRCs offer a variety of living arrangements and services to accommodate residents of all levels of physical ability and health. The goal of a CCRC is to accommodate changing lifestyle preferences and health care needs.

Generally, CCRCs make independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing available all on one campus. Todayís CCRCs are characterized by an increased range of payment options, including both entrance fee and fee-for-service arrangements. Although in the past, entrance fees were nonrefundable, most new CCRCs have instituted refundable or partially refundable entrance fees.

In response to changing preferences among seniors, CCRCs may be offered as condominiums, cooperatives or rental communities.