CCRCs offer supportive environments in which elders can live among their peers and receive services that will allow them to “age in place.’’ They provide housing, personal services, and health care, usually at one location. There are more than 30 CCRCs in Massachusetts.

CCRCs often have a variety of types and sizes of housing on one campus. These are paid for with a declining-refundable entrance fee, often ranging from less than $100,000 to more than $300,000. Luxurious communities may provide larger units for twice that or more. When the resident moves out or dies, a portion of the fee—usually most of it—is refunded. The size of the refund depends on the length of the stay.

For a monthly fee that can range from $700 to $3,000 a month, CCRCs provide or make available some combination of services, activities, and amenities designed to maximize independent living. These vary greatly at each CCRC, so it is important to be clear about which services are included in the monthly fee and which are available at an additional cost.