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The
Continuing Care Retirement Community
(CCRC) industry is evolving in the direction of more
resident involvement. This is manifesting itself in greater
resident participation in decision making through
representation on provider boards of directors and improved
communication between providers and residents. This is exciting
and challenging because of the newly created responsibilities
that resident volunteers must assume.
CALCRA’s
basic purpose is to enhance the quality of life and financial
security of CCRC residents. CALCRA has responded to this
challenge by aiming to create a climate of cooperation between
management and residents. This goal can only be achieved through
trust. In order to establish trust, providers must have an open
relationship with their residents. This includes considering
mutual concerns and suggestions respectfully with an open mind
and providing full disclosure of all financial and
non-financial data.
Residents
choose to live in CCRCs for many reasons: To be near family, to feel secure that their future needs will be met
and to avoid being a burden on their children. Providing for
physical, mental and spiritual aspects of resident's lives is
what providers offer and what residents buy when the contract is
signed. The contract implies a partnership. Partnerships are
successful only when, in this case, residents are involved in
the decision-making that affects their lives. Involvement in
this process allows residents to feel valued and respected, not
just as objects to be cared for under terms of the contract.
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