Choosing where—and how—you want to live as you age is one of the most important personal and financial decisions. And there are many options, from independent living to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing facilities. There are also Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) which offer it all on one campus. I sat down with Meagan Buckley, President and CEO of Wake Robin, to discuss why planning ahead matters, what sets CCRCs apart, and how to make the move with clarity and confidence.
Meagan, how do you usually explain a CCRC to someone unfamiliar with the concept?
I describe a CCRC, also known as a Life Plan Community, as a place where you move in with the ability to live independently, and the reassurance that as your needs change, you’ll have seamless access to higher levels of health care. Unlike standalone independent living or assisted living communities, a CCRC offers the full continuum of care.
How do residents typically cover the upfront and ongoing costs of living in a CCRC?
Most residents pay the entrance fee from the sale of their home. Then there is a predictable monthly fee which covers housing, dining, amenities, and future health care if needed, including residential care, memory care, and/or skilled nursing. When offered occupancy, we conduct a health assessment to be sure you can live independently for at least two years, as well as a financial review to ensure long-term sustainability. This model gives residents peace of mind—financially and emotionally—knowing they won’t have to make another move as their needs evolve.
What holds people back from moving into a CCRC like Wake Robin?
The biggest barrier is timing. Many people wait until they begin to feel the effects of aging or until they believe it feels “right” to leave their home. But with the size of the Baby Boomer generation, the number of people interested in Life Plan Communities has grown significantly, and waitlists are long. That’s why I encourage people to start exploring options in their early 60s. Planning ahead allows you to be clear about your goals and flexible about details. Often, the most important choice is which community you want to join, not the exact floor plan or view. By starting early, you can align your preferred timing with availability, rather than being forced to wait years once you’ve decided you’re ready.
What role can the younger generation play in supporting older family members in the decision-making process?
Adult children can be great partners in this decision by talking openly about life goals and what matters most. Sometimes there’s a worry that moving into a CCRC might reduce a future financial gift—but many families here say Wake Robin is the greatest gift of all. It frees everyone to focus on enjoying time together instead of managing care that can sometimes be incredibly complex and burdensome. Visiting communities together, asking good questions, and staying flexible about details like floor plans, helps ensure the choice is about the right fit, not just the right address.
What should people know about the waitlist at Wake Robin?
More and more, older adults are looking for the vibrant lifestyle, on-site healthcare, and meaningful social connections that Life Plan Communities offer. At Wake Robin, we’ve seen this growing interest firsthand – especially after the COVID-19 pandemic reminded many of the importance of a supportive community. As a result, the estimated wait for select one-bedroom apartments can now range from 5-7+ years. For most other apartments or cottages, the estimated wait can range from 10-15+ years depending on the style. The average age of residents who enter our community is 79.
How has your perspective on Wake Robin evolved since becoming the CEO?
Having been a part of the Wake Robin community for seven years—and serving as CEO for several years now—I remain impressed by the strength and resilience of this community. It’s the people here, their collaboration, and shared commitment that make Wake Robin not just a place to live, but a place to thrive. In today’s challenging and fast-changing world, the stability of our organization is a powerful asset that allows us to confidently imagine—and build—a lively, fun future together.
What has been the most rewarding part of leading and collaborating with the Wake Robin community?
For me, it’s seeing the growth and transformation all around us—both in residents and staff. People arrive thinking they’re just moving to a new home, but before long, they’re making new friends, trying new things, and discovering fresh purpose. At the same time, our staff is growing too. Just this week, we celebrated yet another team member’s 30th work anniversary. And we also welcome those just starting their very first jobs. Seeing that full circle of growth is truly inspiring. Being part of a place where joy and meaning are part of everyday life and where humor lives even in the hardest spaces—that’s what makes this job so special.
