Life Plan FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Life Care plans.
Q. What is a Life Plan community?
A. A Life Plan Community is a place where you can live independently today, with the confidence that future care — such as personal care, memory support, or skilled nursing — is available if and when you need it.
It’s designed for people who want to plan ahead, stay independent longer, and avoid making rushed decisions later in life.
Phoebe Berks Village does require an initial investment to become a resident, although there is a fee-for-service option available. The amount of the entrance fee depends on the size of the unit selected.
Q. How is a Life Plan Community different from traditional senior living?
A. Traditional senior living often requires multiple moves as needs change. A Life Plan Community allows you to age in place, with access to higher levels of care on the same campus.
The biggest difference is peace of mind — knowing your future care needs are planned for, even if you’re healthy and active today.
Q. What does a Type C Life Plan contract mean?
A. A Type C Life Plan contract provides:
- Independent living today
- Guaranteed access to higher levels of care if needed
- Care provided at the then-current market rate
Many people choose Type C because it offers flexibility, planning security, and lower upfront cost compared to other contract types.
Q. Why would someone choose a Life Plan Community if they’re healthy?
A. Because the best time to plan is before a crisis.
People who move earlier:
- Have more choices
- Settle in more easily
- Build community and friendships
- Avoid rushed decisions during stressful moments
Life Plan living is about maintaining independence, not giving it up.
Q. What if I love my home and I’m not ready to move yet?
A.
That’s very common — and completely okay.
Many people begin by learning about Life Plan living years before making a move. Others choose to stay in their home while securing future care through programs like Pathstones by Phoebe, which provides coordinated care and support at home.
You don’t have to choose between independence and planning — you can do both.
Q.What is Pathstones by Phoebe?
A. Pathstones is a Life Plan–at–home program for people who want to remain in their home while planning for future care.
Members receive:
- Care coordination
- Support services at home
- Priority access to Phoebe communities if a move becomes necessary
It’s often a first step for people who aren’t ready to move but want peace of mind.
Q. Is a Life Plan Community only for people who need care now?
A. No. In fact, most residents move in while they are active and independent.
Life Plan Communities are designed for people who want:
- An engaging lifestyle
- Community and connection
- Predictability around future care
Care is there when you need it, not because you need it today.
Q. What does the entry fee cover?
A.The entry fee is a one-time planning investment that helps secure:
- Your residence
- Access to future care
- Long-term stability within the community
It supports the Life Plan model and allows the community to provide consistent care and services over time
Q. How do I know if Life Plan living is right for me?
A. That’s exactly what this education process is for.
Most people start by:
- Learning the basics
- Asking questions
- Talking with family
- Exploring options at their own pace
There’s no pressure to decide — just information to help you make the right decision for you.