Retirement communities are evolving to support retirees in aging at home. This approach offers controlled costs and support for those who prefer staying in their own homes.
Joan Brasier and Paul Wilczynski’s Approach
Joan Brasier and Paul Wilczynski live in a ranch house in Asheville, N.C. Their home features a path lined with thyme leading to the front door, and the interior includes a remodeled primary bath with easy-to-clean surfaces. The couple plans to remain there for as long as possible. However, they are cautious about the future. Now retired, they wish to travel without worrying about funding future care needs.
Continuing Care at Home
They have opted for a model known as “continuing care at home” offered by a nearby retirement community. This solution blends community expertise with at-home support. Members can move into the contracted facility if needed, while ensuring costs are predictable. This model is gaining attention as more people want to age in their homes. About 75 percent of participants in a 2024 AARP survey expressed a desire to “age in place.”
Popularity and Growth
Only 37 of the 1,911 continuing care retirement communities in the U.S. currently offer this model, according to LeadingAge. This number has increased from 26 in the past decade, spurred by rising interest.
Givens Choice
Brasier and Wilczynski joined Givens Choice, a program by Givens Communities in North Carolina. The three-year-old program includes regular health check-ins and coaching with a care manager, guaranteeing them long-term care at a fixed price.

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