WACCRA (Washington Continuing Care Residents Association)
Gearing up for the 2025 Legislative Session
The Washington Continuing Care Residents Association (WACCRA) represents the interests of Washington seniors residing in Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), that provide a continuum of care
from independent living through nursing care — "all under one roof". Independent living residents of CCRCs make substantial entrance fee deposits to join this type of retirement community but have few Washington state protections compared to other communal living
arrangements in Washington and when compared to other states’ regulations of CCRCs. WACCRA’s goal is to improve consumer protections for seniors and ensure a robust CCRC industry in Washington. To see all the details in an easy-to-read format, check out our Press Kit (right).
What is WACCRA?
Washington State Continuing Care Residents Association (WACCRA)
The Washington State Continuing Care Residents Association (WACCRA) is the only organization in the state that represents the interests of residents who live in WA Continuing Care Retirement Communities, CCRCs – sometimes called Life Plan Communities. WACCRA is a 501(c)(4) organization – we advocate for the needs of our members.
OUR MISSION
WACCRA works to foster vibrant CCRC communities characterized by mutually respectful and productive relationships between residents and management. WACCRA empowers residents so that their voices are included in their CCRC management’s decision-making and policy implementation. WACCRA advocates for resident rights, financial transparency, and consumer protections – all strengthened by enforcement.
In addition to seeking legislation, WACCRA has worked very closely with LeadingAge WA (the organization of senior living management professionals) to develop the Commitment to CCRC Practices. The Commitment lays out best practices for ensuring cooperation, transparency, and trust between the CCRC Executive Director and the CCRC residents around issues of financial disclosure, entrance fee refunds, and resident involvement in decision-making. This landmark agreement went into effect on January 1, 2021 at each of the 23 registered CCRCs in the State.
WACCRA is an active member of Senior Lobby, a consortium of organizations focused on senior issues. We also work with the WA State Long Term Care Ombuds Office and other state agencies that oversee issues of concern to seniors. WACCRA is an affiliate of the National Continuing Care Residents Association NaCCRA. A strong and robust WACCRA membership is essential
to our success. If you aren’t a member, please consider joining now.
Consumer Guide to CCRC's in Washington State
Consumer Guide to Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC's) in Washington State
Our Consumer Guide provides critical information for seniors considering investing in, and moving into, a CCRC. You will find sections on the types of contracts available (A, B, C, D), independent living options, levels of healthcare (Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, Memory Care), financial considerations, and ownership and governance characteristics. A helpful checklist of amenities makes decision-making easier. The Consumer Guide includes contact information for each of the 23 CCRCs registered in Washington State.
The community living experience in a CCRC can offer you congenial new friends, rich social and cultural experiences, excellent health care, life-enhancing fitness/wellness opportunities, genuine security and peace of mind.
Your move will eliminate the stress of maintaining a home and relieve your children’s worries about their parents living alone. In this way, you will avoid becoming a burden to them or to others.
What is a CCRC, Actually?
A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is an organization that provides a secure and comfortable place for senior citizens to live, with an agreement that assures a continuum of care as their needs change over time through the rest of their lives. CCRCs generally include independent living residences which are rented on a monthly basis; memory care facilities; assisted living; and skilled nursing. Some contracts require a substantial up-front deposit (a percentage of which is refundable) in addition to the monthly rent.
