Senior Living Costs to Consider

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Our residents’ and team members’ health and safety will always be our highest priority. Our communities are committed to proactive health measures and strong partnerships with trusted healthcare providers to ensure timely access to preventive care, including vaccinations.

We remain committed to staying informed and responsive, continuously evaluating best practices to make thoughtful decisions. This ongoing commitment to science-based practices helps us maintain a safe and supportive environment for everyone who lives and works in our communities.

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Senior Living Costs to Consider

Lutheran Village at Miller’s Grant is proud to announce it has earned a five-star quality rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS)—a prestigious honor that affirms its dedication to exceptional care and resident well-being.

The CMS Five-Star Quality Rating System assesses nursing homes nationwide using detailed metrics in three key areas: health inspections, staffing and quality of care. A five-star rating indicates superior performance in all categories and places LVMG among the top senior living communities in the country.

“This recognition validates the passion and professionalism of our team,” said Michelle Rosenheim, vice president of operations and sales for Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland and executive director of LVMG. “We strive every day to provide a welcoming, safe and nurturing environment where residents can thrive.”

LVMG is no stranger to accolades. For six straight years, the community has been named Best of Howard by the readers of Howard Magazine—an honor recently echoed by The Baltimore Sun. These repeated distinctions underscore its supportive services and enduring commitment to high standards.

From comprehensive care to an engaging and fulfilling lifestyle, LVMG continues to exemplify what it means to age with dignity, purpose and joy.

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Senior Living Costs to Consider

When planning for retirement, it’s important to compare senior living costs – specifically the costs between living at home and in a continuing care retirement community (i.e. life-plan community). If you breakdown the costs of each, you’ll find a CCRC can be less and easier to manage when paychecks stop arriving. You’ll also realize the benefits that are built into the CCRC’s costs far exceed those of living at home, especially if you live alone.

Four Factors to Consider When Evaluating Senior Living Costs

1. Home versus CCRC expenses

When analyzing senior living costs, you need to compare home expenses against living in a CCRC. There are many obvious expenses to living at home including:

• Mortgage
• Home warranties
• Property taxes
• Utilities
• Security systems
• Lawn care
• Snow removal

Next include costs for:

• Groceries and dining out
• Home maintenance and repairs
• Owning and maintaining a car
• Entertainment
• Fitness club memberships

Factor those expenses against the services and amenities that are typically included in a CCRC’s senior living costs:

• Most or all utilities
• 24-hour security
• Lawn care
• Snow removal
• Maintenance services
• Local transportation
• Fitness facilities (e.g. gym and pool)
• Community activities (e.g. classes, trips, events)
• Outdoor sporting spaces (e.g. tennis and croquet courts)

Download our brochure, and learn about the services and amenities we offer.

2. Care costs

It’s a fact that the older you get, the more likely you’ll need help with daily living activities, which further stresses the importance of financially preparing for senior living costs. If you plan to depend on family for occasional help, that’s often easily provided, but if you are among the 70 percent of people aged 65 or older who will eventually need long-term care, you should be aware of the senior living costs associated.

According to the Genworth 2024 Cost of Care Survey senior living costs are skyrocketing. The median yearly cost in Maryland for 2024 hit $77,792 for a home health aide and $75,504 for homemaker services. Both are projected to increase to over $100,000 by 2034.

At the same time, the median yearly cost to live in assisted living in Maryland was $70,800. That cost is projected to increase to $95,149 by 2034. Despite the increase in costs in the next 10 years, living in a CCRC is still less than living at home, and it includes care as well as all the amenities that will help you stay healthy, happy and independent for as long as you’re able.

3. Isolation risks

The cost of living in isolation as you age is another factor to consider. Lack of human interaction has long been implicated in a range of health problems from high blood pressure to anxiety and depression to dementia and even early death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions, the health threat of senior isolation “significantly increased a person’s risk of premature death from all causes, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.”

For that reason, a CCRC includes an extensive list of activities and events to enjoy in the company of friends. Everything is planned and provided within the community. You can pick and choose from classes, events, games and other activities designed for fun and fulfillment. Discover how a CCRC can help you thrive from our blog, Seven Tips for Healthy Aging.

4. Safety Investments

Although living in the family home during your retirement years may seem the most comfortable and familiar option, it can also become the most dangerous. Slips and falls on steps,  uneven flooring, bathtubs and showers as well as the inability to maneuver walkers and wheelchairs in narrow halls and entrances and other tight areas are all threats.

According to the CDC’s older adult falls data, over 14 million, or one in four, adults ages 65 and older report falling each year. About 37% of those who reported a fall required medical treatment or had to restrict their activity for at least one day. Not surprisingly, the fall death rate rose 41 percent from 2012 to 2021.

Safety and accessibility are built into the cost of a CCRC because communities provide all the little upgrades you’ll need as you age. Among these are:

• Wide hallways and entrances
• Brightly lit open spaces and apartments
• Accessible friendly bathrooms (e.g. walk-in showers, higher toilets, grab bars and other safety accessories)

When examining senior living costs, it’s important you consider monthly home versus CCRC costs, care expenses, long-term costs of isolation and investments to make your home safe, if you choose to age at home. Although you may feel fine now, you do need to plan for the possibility of needing long-term care. If you don’t plan for it, you risk not living the retirement lifestyle you want.

Review Our Resources

Long-term Care Funding Options

Comparing Costs. Affording a CCRC.

Stay or Go Guide

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Carroll Lutheran Village Celebrates 12 Consecutive Years as Carroll’s Best

Westminster, MD – Carroll Lutheran Village recently secured the title Carroll’s Best in three distinguished categories – Best Retirement Community, Best Assisted Living and Best Nursing Home – by Carroll County Times readers. This recognition marks 12 consecutive years the community has been recognized as Carroll’s Best.

“Having been award Carroll’s Best in the community where CLV resides, is a testament to our drive for performing and delivering the best to our residents,” stated Jeff Branch, president and CEO of Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland, the managing organization for CLV.

Transforming CLV is likely the most visible example of the community’s drive to deliver the best to current and future residents, which supports the community’s vision for reimagining aging.

The last of the renovations to two of its apartment buildings is nearly complete. These updates enhance the comfort and style of independent living and social gathering spots, including a new coffee/tea bar.

“As portions of the project have been completed, it has been a joy seeing how these changes have positively impacted residents’ daily lives,” said Dave Bollinger, CLV’s board of trustees chair.

Memory care support in assisted living has also experienced significant enhancements. Obie for Seniors, an interactive gaming system that engages and entertains while enhancing cognitive stimulation, physical activity and social interaction, was added to an already stimulating program of activities that also includes It’s Never Too Late (i.e., iN2L), a program that helps residents connect with families through music, education, worship, games and more.

Additionally, two re-occurring events were added – the Memory Café and Memory Care Support Group. The Memory Café offers residents, families and loved ones with themed social events where they can build meaningful connections – offering a supportive and joyous environment for everyone involved.

The Memory Care Support Group provides a space for families to share, learn and connect with others navigating similar experiences. This group fosters a sense of community and understanding, reinforcing our commitment to supporting residents and their entire support network.

“As we celebrate 12 consecutive years of being voted Carroll’s Best, we remain focused on providing a vibrant, modern and supportive community for our residents. We are grateful to our incredible team members, who help provide that experience to our residents,” stated Ann McDermott, CLV’s associate executive director.

Since its founding over 40 years ago as a nursing home, CLV has grown into a thriving Life Plan Community and home to more than 600 residents. Offering a full continuum of care (i.e., independent living, assisted living, memory care and long-term care), 24 independent living apartment and home floor plans, and an abundance of services and amenities, CLV remains dedicated in its mission to provide exceptional living experiences for older adults.

Carroll Lutheran Village, a community of Lutheran Social Ministries of Maryland, is an accredited, not-for-profit Life Plan Community in Westminster, MD. serving over 600 residents in 397 homes and apartments, 50 assisted living suites and 103 skilled care beds.  For more information about the CLV, call 410-848-0090 or visit clvillage.org.Read More

The Importance of Moving In Early

What advice do have for someone considering a Life Plan Community?” is one question our residents are typically asked when being interviewed to share their stories and experiences on Carroll Lutheran Village’s social media networks or its blog posts. The common answer … don’t wait.

The Next Chapter: He Retired; She Chose Their New Home

Jim Emmons was 65 when he and his wife Diane moved into Carroll Lutheran Village in 2013. After he retired, he and his wife decided it was time to move. Having traveled a lot for his job, Jim told Diane where to live next was her decision.  

“We looked all over the country for places to live, I mean we looked in Mesquite, Nevada, Albuquerque, Nashville, Charleston, Charlotte. A couple places in Virginia, below Washington. We looked at places in both North and South Carolina, on the other side of the bay. I looked up in Pennsylvania, you know, everywhere.” said Jim. Then one day Diane suggested looking at Carroll Lutheran Village. Living in Finksburg, Jim and Diane were familiar with the community. After they met with a sales counselor and toured the community, Diane told Jim she wanted to live at Carroll Lutheran Village. 

“I was surprised because I didn’t think we were at that point, we were still pretty young. I wanted a 55+ community, but it turned out to be the best decision of my life,” said Jim. 

Shortly after moving into Carroll Lutheran Village, Diane started experiencing serious medical issues. Being at Carroll Lutheran Village, Jim had the tools and support to care for his wife – something he wanted to do – in their apartment until she needed a greater level of care.   

With the help of Carroll Lutheran Village’s team, Diane transferred to an area within the community where she could get the care she needed. Jim said, “I went to see her all the time and because we were still in the same community, it didn’t matter if it rained, sleeted or snowed, seeing her was not an issue.” 

Despite Jim initially feeling they didn’t need to move to a Life Plan Community, he’s glad they did. Care and support were readily available for Diane as her health declined.    

“I would highly recommend that anybody, whether they are still active or not, to buy into a place like this. Life will typically deal you a tough time or two, and it’s better to have something in place before you need it rather than to not have something and then scramble to get it,” said Jim. 

For the Love of Travel: Downsizing and Moving

For Cindy Hirshberg, deciding to move to a Life Plan Community at 60 was a difficult but good decision. Having made many friends in the community where she and her husband owned their home and downsizing the home they lived in for many years were reasons that made the decision difficult. When it comes to downsizing, Cindy said, “You have to look at it as a process and not as a one day moving event.” 

As a result, Cindy and her husband Clark moved into Carroll Lutheran Village in 2007. Not because of health reasons, but because they traveled extensively and did not want to worry about leaving the house for weeks at a time and paying to maintain it.  

They looked at Life Plan Communities along the east coast. “My hubby, being the engineer he was, made up a spreadsheet with details of each community we considered and what they offered in relation to what interested us,” said Cindy. They decided moving to Carroll Lutheran Village as the right decision and settled remotely during a trip to Montana.  

In 2012, Clark suddenly passed away. Understandably, Cindy was distraught. Thankfully, Carroll Lutheran Village’s team members and resources, and her strong support system of other residents were readily available to help her overcome her loss.  

According to Cindy, if she was living in her previous home, she wouldn’t have had access to the help that Carroll Lutheran Village provided, and, although she made many friends in her former neighborhood, the support and visits wouldn’t have been as much as tight-knit friendships she’s made with her new neighbors.   

“My social life would not be anywhere near as good if I had not decided on moving to Carroll Lutheran Village, and as you get older, relationships become more important. In this part of life, relationships help you gain perspective. They help you talk things through and help you look at things differently,” said Cindy. 

She says the best advice she can give to someone considering Carroll Lutheran Village or moving to any Life Plan Community is to not wait and give yourself time to enjoy the community, make friends and join clubs before you need to be in a Life Plan Community for health care reasons. 

Cindy further stated, “Let yourself come here and make some of the best friends you’ll ever have. Have a social life. You’ll have community and friends, and when you’re in a tough spot, they’ll be there. Don’t delay moving such that you don’t get to enjoy all this place has to offer.” 

Activities + Care: Mother and Daughter Find the Right Fit

Much Like Jim and Cindy, LeeAnn Biggs moved to Carroll Lutheran Village in her 60’s. When her mother left her house to move in with her, LeeAnn realized moving to a Life Plan Community  would be advantageous for both of them. Since December 2023, LeeAnn and her mother have called Carroll Lutheran Village, home. 

With LeeAnn having a lifelong friend who was living in a Life Plan Community, she and her mother had some insight into the services and amenities they offer and how moving to and living in such a community could benefit them.

They looked at Life Plan Communities for a couple of years, trying to find a community that was the right fit. They decided Carroll Lutheran Village was the right fit they were searching for, and they didn’t have to move too far. The community was 2.5 miles from LeeAnn’s home. 

“We had talked for many years about moving to the same Life Plan Community because we both felt we would benefit from having access to the continuing levels of care especially with not having family to depend on to take care of us or help us with moves or things like that,” stated LeeAnn.  

Her mother’s care was one of the main reasons for moving to Carroll Lutheran Village. LeeAnn said, “I started thinking that with my mother’s situation being with me, it would probably be advantageous to move sooner rather than later.”  

When she and her mother looked at the various living spaces, LeeAnn was surprised how many different models of homes and apartments were available to accommodate residents’ needs. Now they share a one-floor house together.  Not having to deal with home maintenance is the major change LeeAnn has noticed from moving to Carroll Lutheran Village. “Someone else mows the lawn and shovels snow. When something goes wrong in the house, I just make a call and say, ‘fix it,’” stated Lee Ann 

According to LeeAnn, moving to a Life Plan Community at a younger age, you have more opportunities to get out, be active and make more friends. If you move in when you’re older, you’re not likely to be as mobile, which makes it harder to take advantage of all the benefits and meet new people.   

While LeeAnn and her mother were searching and waiting for their ideal home to become available for moving in, LeeAnn got a membership to the Carroll Lutheran Village’s Wellness Center and, at some point, met up with a walking group of community residents who took her around campus and provided her with more insight into the community.

Since moving in, she has picked up Pickle Ball, taken advantage of other on-campus activities and met new friends. Plus, with remaining in Westminster, she’s continuing to pursue activities and interests in the local community, just as she had prior to living at Carroll Lutheran Village.  

Jim, Cindy and LeeAnn are three residents that firmly believe moving to Carroll Lutheran Village sooner rather than later maybe a difficult decision, but it’s ultimately the right decision. It gave Jim the peace of mind that his wife was receiving the care she needed within a short walk from his home, it gave Cindy the support system that helped her during a tough time and is allowing LeeAnn to rely on more than just her and her mother to take care of each other. All of this while still taking advantage of a fun and active lifestyle they are able to pursue with being members of the CLV community. 

Read more about Jim Emmons, who keeps himself active by enjoying nature and more stories more about CLV’s wonderful residents and team members.

If you are a CLV resident or team member with a story to share, we would love to hear it!

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A one-of-a-kind community spring celebration.

On an afternoon earlier this spring, music, laughter and a variety of delightful aromas filled the halls at Carroll Lutheran Village. Our Emerald Afternoon Celebration was in full swing, and attendees at our senior living event in Westminster, Maryland were definitely feeling the merrymaking vibrations of the St. Patrick’s Day season.

The luck of the Irish, however, played no role here. This was a well-conceived, creatively planned and lovingly executed event. Carroll Lutheran Village team members pulled out all the stops to make the celebration unforgettable.

“We really wanted to do a traditional Irish St. Patrick’s Day celebration, but take it to that next level,” said Executive Chef Shelley Funt. “We were looking to provide an elevated experience, and that starts with the food.”

Ah, the food.

The culinary team huddled and developed a menu that embraced both Irish tradition and culinary innovation. The team always strives to use as many local ingredients from local providers as possible, and the Emerald Afternoon Celebration was no exception.  

A variety of food stations were placed around the community’s dining areas. “We used the Hospitality Center, Bistro, Zest [the community’s farm-to-table restaurant] dining room and the private dining room,” Lisa Pearre, vice president of marketing and communications, explained. The stations included:

The Banger Station. A local butcher provided these traditional Irish sausages, and they were served with toppings, such as “mash” (i.e., mashed potatoes), caramelized onions or a traditional Irish gravy. 

The Reuben Dip Station. Shelley explained, “We took the Reuben concept and turned it into a hot dip. You had your sauerkraut, your corned beef, your Thousand Island dressing and your Swiss cheese. We broke that all down into smaller bite-sized pieces, mixed it into cream cheese and some other spices, baked it in the oven and served with rye crostini.” 

The Irish Charcuterie Station. Here guests were treated to locally sourced sliced corned beef, local fresh and pickled veggies and a variety of Irish cheeses.

The Dessert Station. Chef Layla Groft led a team that created an assortment of sweet treats, including a traditional Irish apple cake. “The team always does a fabulous job with the desserts,” Lisa said. “They just knocked it out of the park.” 

The Irish Whiskey Tasting Station. To round out the experience, guests sampled three Irish whiskeys, all under the expert guidance of Chef Kevin. 

Ah, the craic. 

No, that’s not a typo. Craic (pronounced KRAK) is how the Irish describe the lively banter, fun and connection of social gatherings. And at the Carroll Lutheran Village Emerald Afternoon Celebration, the craic was good.  

“When people started coming in, I was like, wow, this is going to be really fun and relaxed and friendly and warm,” Shelley said. “And that’s exactly what it was.” 

Throughout the afternoon, the halls were abuzz with conversation. “People who didn’t know each other got to talking,” Lisa said. “There was just so much energy with all that conversation, it was really very exciting.” 

Shelley said, “We do a lot of things for the residents, and we like to make it personalized, elevated. We want our residents to experience something different. We want them to know they don’t have to go outside the community to find something exciting.”  

As senior living St. Patrick’s Day celebrations go, thanks to the passion and tireless efforts of team members, the Emerald Afternoon at Carroll Lutheran Village undoubtedly rates at the top of the list. Sláinte! 

To find out when you can experience the joy at Carroll Lutheran Village’s next event, visit https://clvillage.org/being-your-best/events/. 

Or to schedule a personalized senior living tour of our 100-acre campus, call 410-453-1655.

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Downsizing Tips That Aren’t Overwhelming

Deciding to downsize, as a older adult, can be exciting but daunting. Realizing that your home is too big, has too many stairs and/or involves too much upkeep comes with a whole host of questions and concerns.

Following these tips will make your experience less overwhelming:

Ask for Help 

Ask your kids, siblings, close friend or neighbor or a moving coordinator – yes, there are professional moving coordinators – to be the objective person who helps you stay on track and decide if something is worth keeping.

Create and Action Plan

When you find your “assistant,” discuss your intentions and work together to create an action plan. This is especially helpful if you need to put your home on the market or move out by a specific date.

As you and your assistant are working through the plan, both of you will be able to see the progress being made and whether it’s taking more time, which may require additional time than initially planned, or less time.

Additionally, your action plan needs to take your and your assistant’s schedules in to consideration. Some days may be better to work on downsizing than others.

Action plans can be created with a simple writing utensil and paper. You can even use a wall or desk calendar. Though if you prefer the computer route, go for it. It doesn’t matter what method you use as long as it works for you.

Sort Through Your Belongings 

As you’re sorting through items it’s tempting to want to keep items that conjure up memories or could be of use one day. But, if you keep too many items then you’re not downsizing.

I’m not suggesting you go from one extreme of keeping most everything to the other extreme of getting rid of most everything. Rather find the balance. This is where your assistant can really help you because he/she will be the objective party. Just as quick you’re ready to keep something you may also be just as quick to get rid of something, which your assistant may point out as being useful in your new home.

Asking yourself the following questions will help you determine whether you keep or let something go.

• Does it bring you joy?
• Do you need it?
• Will it fit where you’re moving?

Decide What to do With Your Unwanted Belongings 

Some of your items may still have some useful life and be of value to others. Rather than tossing them in the trash, consider the following:

• Giving Items to Family and Friends
  Take pictures of the items that you want to give away to share with your family and friends. Tag them so you know what goes to whom. We all really appreciated the opportunity to identify items we wanted to give to our children. Though be prepared, your family may not want the items you think they want!
• Selling Your Items
  If you’re interested in some extra money, sell your items. For ease, let the pro’s handle that, but if you prefer to be more hands on, you could organize a yard sale or sell your items online. There are a bunch of online resources available including OfferUp, Facebook Marketplace, Ebay and many others. For valuable items, I recommend having them appraised by a reputable appraiser – someone who is ethical and honest about valuing items. Do your research and find someone you can trust. Once you know the value, you’ll be ready to contact antique dealers, jewelers or consignment stores.
• Donating to a Worthy Cause
  Donate your items to a local thrift store, Goodwill, a church auction or other non-profit organization. Recycling and repurposing have become very popular alternatives to reducing landfill waste, and the items or the sale of the items go to a good cause. Plus, some organizations provide pick-up services, which is ideal for bulky heavy items.

If you follow these tips and move at your own pace, downsizing will not be an overwhelming chore, and you will likely appreciate your accomplishment and be ready for a fresh new start.Read More

Picture this: It’s a beautiful summer afternoon. You’re surrounded by gentle rolling hills. All around you are dozens of vintage cars gleaming in the sun. The aroma of cheeseburgers and the sounds of “Hound Dog” and “Blue Suede Shoes” fill the air. A soda jerk hands you a root beer float.

Did you somehow just walk into a time machine? No, you just found yourself at Classic Cars and Vintage Vibes, a pre-Father’s Day senior living celebration at Carroll Lutheran Village.

A senior living Father’s Day tradition.

This is the third year the senior living community in Westminster, MD, has held a Father’s Day event. Resident Life Coordinator Jordan Haegerich said the guests were definitely having a good time. “It was hot out there, but I didn’t hear anybody complain about the weather, they were enjoying the music, the food and the cars.”

Music, food and cars always make for a memorable event—but this gathering was something special. The band Days of Vinyl kept the atmosphere jumping, filling the air with tunes from the ’50s and ’60s. 

As for the food, Carroll Lutheran Village’s culinary team went all out. Team members served all-American cheeseburger sliders, pigs in a blanket and other classic fare. Sides of “swinging salad” and “doo-wop salad” were a delicious complement, and the tempting array of goodies at the retro dessert station, including mini-donuts, apple cobbler and coconut cream trifle, made sure no one left hungry. Root beer and Orange Crush floats served by team members adorned in soda jerk costumes completed the celebration. 

And then there were the cars. Forty-seven in all. Fords, Chevys and others, lovingly preserved from days gone by. These classic beauties were lined up across the Mission Square Gazebo parking lot, where guests wandered up to get a closer look and chat with the owners. 

Approximately 150 revelers—a mix of current Carroll Lutheran Village residents and folks still considering their retirement options—mixed, mingled and otherwise enjoyed each other’s company.  

“Not your typical retirement community.” 

Megan Beares, dining room manager and special event coordinator, attributed the success of the Classic Cars and Vintage Vibes event to teamwork. “Different departments within the community worked together to make this event a success for our residents and guests,” she said. “And that definitely paid off with everyone really enjoying the day.” 

It was a special day, planned with the thoughtful, community-focused spirit that defines Carroll Lutheran Village. “We’re always looking for ways to jump ahead and see what we can do differently,” Megan said. “We want people to know we’re not your typical retirement community.” 

The wellness behind the fun. 

Events like Classic Cars and Vintage Vibes aren’t just about nostalgia and good times—they’re an important part of social wellness for seniors. Research shows that community events and social engagement play a vital role in healthy aging, helping residents build meaningful connections and combat isolation. 

Studies from the National Investment Center demonstrate that seniors who move into communities like Carroll Lutheran Village experience better health outcomes and increased longevity compared to those living independently. The social connections formed at events like our classic car show contribute directly to these positive outcomes. 

As senior wellness experts note, social support enhances quality of life and provides a buffer against adverse life events. When you’re sharing stories about a pristine ’67 Mustang or laughing over root beer floats with new friends, you’re doing more than having fun—you’re investing in your overall well-being. 

At Carroll Lutheran Village, we understand that wellness goes far beyond physical health. Our comprehensive wellness programs focus on seven dimensions of wellness, including the social connections that make life rich and meaningful. Events like Classic Cars and Vintage Vibes are just one way we help residents thrive in every aspect of their lives. 

Learn how you can be a part of Carroll Lutheran Village’s next senior living event by visiting

https://clvillage.org/about-us/events/.

Or schedule a personalized senior living tour of our scenic 100-acre campus by calling 410-453-1655.

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The Benefits of Apartment Living in a Life Plan Community

You’ve made the decision to move to a Life Plan Community, but now you’re faced with deciding whether to move to a senior living apartment or home — which do you choose? Each option offers benefits, but apartment living has unique advantages.

A Short Distance from Friends, Fun and Food

Living in an apartment means you’re just steps away from neighbors as well as on-site dining options, a fitness center, a spa and other amenities that are likely easily accessible without having to travel outdoors in the sweltering heat or frigid cold. But it’s not just about convenience—it’s about fun, too!

Building Deeper Connections

One of the joys of apartment living is the chance to build meaningful connections as you naturally cross paths with neighbors. At CLV, you can start your day with light conversation at the coffee/tea bars, join friends in cheering for your favorite team or for happy hour at the Pub, located in the Avondale Place apartment building.

From Small to Surprisingly Large

Whether you’re a travel bug looking for a cozy place to hang your hat or someone who wants the space of a home without the hassle, apartment living offers flexibility to fit your lifestyle. At CLV, you’ll find 15 unique apartment floor plans, ranging from small and efficient layouts to spacious options that rival the size of some single-family homes.

Downsizing to a thoughtfully designed apartment may be the perfect solution. A smaller living space means less to clean and maintain, leaving more time for what you enjoy.

Choosing an apartment at a Life Plan Community depends on your lifestyle, preferences and long-term needs. As you weigh your options, consider apartment living to elevate your day-to-day experience. It offers simplicity, convenience and a community-centered lifestyle.

Discover the many apartment home options available at Carroll Lutheran Village.

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The Wise Choice for Senior Living in Westminster, MD

Senior living in Westminster, MD, and other parts of the country has evolved over the years, starting with seniors themselves. Today, seniors are living longer and leading more active lives than ever before.

Senior living communities reflect that vitality and create stimulating environments, so your retirement is fun and fulfilling. At Carroll Lutheran Village, we fully embrace that commitment.

Considering Independent Living in Westminster, MD? The Time to Start Planning Is Now

Here’s a little secret: The best time to start planning for senior living is before it’s needed (e.g., experiencing a health complication). Without the urgency, planning is less hurried, allowing for a one step at a time approach. 

We’re not the only ones saying this. Senior living professionals across the country tell their clients the same thing—start your search in your late 60s or early 70s, even when you don’t feel ready. Why? Because it gives you time to truly explore your options, get on those popular community waitlists and adjust your savings if needed. 

First, think about what retirement means to you. What gives you joy, purpose or peace? 

Second, consider your financial situation, including all the sources of income you’ll have once you retire (e.g., pension, Social Security, savings). Then think about your expenses. Senior living communities like Carroll Lutheran Village can simplify your budgeting with predictable monthly costs that include housing, activities and more. 

Consider housing options. The maintenance-free lifestyle that senior living communities offer can be very appealing. What happens if you need additional care down the road? Life Plan Communities such as Carroll Lutheran Village—also known as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)—offer an active lifestyle now, along with the peace of mind of knowing your future care needs will be met.

The Financial Advantages of Life Plan Communities

Think you can’t afford a Life Plan Community? Think again. When you add up what it costs to maintain your current home—mortgage, taxes, utilities, repairs, lawn care, and other services—a Life Plan Community often costs less than you’d expect. 

And there’s another advantage many people don’t consider. Harvard Health Publishing notes that CCRCs eliminate worries about home maintenance and repairs, and you no longer need to do regular grocery shopping or house cleaning since meals and cleaning services are usually included. Plus, with certain contracts, you’ll know exactly what your monthly expenses will be for your entire retirement. No surprise roof repairs, no skyrocketing property taxes, no wondering what healthcare will cost in 10 years. You’re essentially paying for future healthcare with today’s dollars instead of dealing with tomorrow’s inflated costs. 

The one-time entrance fee gives you a lifetime right to live in your residence without the worries and costs of home ownership. Plus, when you factor in all the amenities, services, vibrant lifestyle options and peace of mind for the future, it becomes quite a value. 

Wellness is one aspect of retirement life you simply can’t neglect. At Carroll Lutheran Village, we’ve developed an award-winning wellness program to help you reach your personal best through six dimensions of wellness: physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual and vocational. 

The bottom line is that right now you’re in the best position to make thoughtful, proactive senior living choices that align with the life you want to live, today and in the years ahead.

Senior Apartments Are Just One of Many Options

If you’ve begun to explore your senior living options, you’ve no doubt discovered a lot of choices are available. So, we’ve compiled information on two of the most common senior living options. 

55+ Communities 

Most 55+ communities charge a fixed monthly fee that includes meals and other services. Typically, they do not offer long-term care such as assisted living, memory care or on-site skilled nursing. 

Life Plan Communities 

Life Plan Communities are all about holistic wellness, wide-ranging opportunities for personal growth and social interaction.

Life Plan Communities, such as Carroll Lutheran Village, embrace research that shows staying physically healthy, mentally engaged and socially connected can lead to a longer, healthier, happier life. 

Life Plan Communities provide an ideal setting to explore interests, travel, socialize with friends and more. Once you’re a resident, you’ll be liberated from all home maintenance such as cutting the grass, shoveling snow or cleaning the gutters. You’ll have time to do whatever it is you enjoy most.  

At Carroll Lutheran Village, we also provide additional services that include safety protocols, groundskeeping, scheduled local transportation for shopping trips and appointments, a robust calendar of events and a variety of on-site restaurants. Speaking of restaurants, we offer four options that range from fine to casual dining, including Zest, our farm-to-table restaurant that serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients. We also offer a Coffee/Tea Bar and Pub for cozy gatherings and conversation. 

The one-time entrance fee gives you a lifetime right to live in your residence without all the worries and costs of home ownership—(assuming you’re a good steward of your finances). You’ll no longer be responsible for property tax. Life Plan Communities typically offer a variety of entrance fee contracts. Carroll Lutheran Village offers a fee-for-service contract, also known as a Type C contract. The fee-for-service contract typically offers the lowest entrance and monthly fees, and you’ll only pay for higher level of care if and when you need it. The monthly fee covers daily living expenses like utilities and use of services and amenities.  

Arguably, a Life Plan Community’s greatest appeal is that it offers you a full continuum of care should your needs change. Most Life Plan Communities offer assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care for those dealing with Alzheimer’s or other cognitive challenges—all within the community. This means you can stay in the same familiar environment, maintain your friendships and continue to enjoy many of the same amenities and social opportunities. 

When you add up all the expenses of living in your own home, you may find yourself surprised at just how affordable a Life Plan Community can be. Plus, when you consider all the amenities, services, vibrant lifestyle options and security for the future, a Life Plan Community becomes an incredible value. 

Learn More About Senior Living at Carroll Lutheran Village. 

Carroll Lutheran Village has created a comprehensive guide to the senior living options available to you, including Life Plan living in Westminster, MD. It can give you more details on contract options, financial planning and much more. 

 Planning the next chapter in your life can be an exciting experience, especially when you have a solid understanding of the process. Be sure to get our senior living options guide today. 

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