When planning for the next stage of life, many older adults want more than just a new place to live. They want freedom, choice, community, and the reassurance that future care options will be available if ever needed. That is where a Life Plan Community comes in. The Glen at Heather Farm in Walnut Creek, California, is an example of a community that is designed to offer residential living today while also giving residents priority access to long term care services in the future.
Understanding a Life Plan Community
A Life Plan Community, sometimes called a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), is a unique type of residential community for older adults. Unlike traditional senior housing, a Life Plan Community combines residential living with the peace of mind that comes from having priority access to the adjacent health center for assisted living, memory care, and long term care in a skilled nursing center, if ever needed.
This model is designed for people who want to remain active and engaged, with the knowledge that they have a plan for future care. It is not about giving up independence. Instead, it is about choosing a place that supports an enjoyable lifestyle today while preparing thoughtfully for tomorrow.
Residential Living Today
At The Glen at Heather Farm, residential living will be at the center of community life. Residents will be able to choose from a variety of homes, including apartment-style homes and townhomes, each thoughtfully designed to fit different lifestyles. With maintenance-free living, residents have more time to focus on what matters most to them, whether that is fitness, hobbies, dining with friends, or exploring the local area.
The community itself is planned with an active lifestyle in mind. Amenities will include a fitness center, pool, walking paths, and inviting spaces for social gatherings. Dining is designed to be both flexible and appealing, with fresh and varied options available. The goal is to make daily life engaging, comfortable, and full of opportunities for connection.
Planning for Future Care
One of the main benefits of a Life Plan Community is knowing that support may be available if health needs change over time. At The Glen at Heather Farm, residents can appreciate the reassurance of having future care options nearby, while still focusing on the independence and opportunities available each day. This balance of present enjoyment with preparation for tomorrow helps create real peace of mind for both residents and their families.
Financial Considerations for a Life Plan Community
Choosing a Life Plan Community also involves understanding the financial model. At The Glen at Heather Farm, residents will pay a one-time entrance fee, which provides access to the community and its services. In addition to the entrance fee, residents will pay monthly fees which are designed to cover a wide range of amenities and services that simplify daily life, and the majority of which are generally repaid back to the resident or the resident’s estate when they leave the community.
A potential advantage is that a portion of the fees paid to a Life Plan Community may be tax deductible because the type of contract may qualify as a prepaid medical expense, subject to IRS limitations. Residents are always encouraged to consult with their tax advisor to understand if this benefit applies to them.
The entrance fee is not an investment in the financial sense, but rather a way to secure access to both residential living and priority access to long term care if needed. This clear structure helps create transparency and confidence in planning ahead.
A Lifestyle Choice
For many, moving to a Life Plan Community is about more than planning for future care. It is about choosing a lifestyle that supports wellness, social connection, personal growth, and peace of mind. The Glen at Heather Farm is being designed with these goals in mind, offering residents a welcoming environment where they can enjoy their independence and feel supported as needs change.
Choosing a Life Plan Community is a forward thinking decision. It is about enjoying today with a plan for tomorrow. With residential living options, a vibrant campus, and priority access to the adjacent health center for long term care, The Glen at Heather Farm offers a thoughtful approach to both current lifestyle and future care. For those interested in understanding how Life Plan Communities operate and are supported, Continuing Life® offers additional insight into the model behind communities like The Glen at Heather Farm.
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