Retire in style
These continuing-care retirement communities garner four- or five-star Medicare nursing home ratings and accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.
Entrance fee: $134,210 to $469,260 (prorated refund for the first five years)
Monthly fee: $2,954 to $4,466 for independent living; $2,952 to $4,647 for assisted living; $6,210 to $7,050 for nursing care
Highlights: Willamette View's most appealing amenity may be its 5,600 square foot wellness center with a pool, personal trainers, massage therapists, and a high-tech gym (residents just plug in a USB stick and the machines remember their workouts). This energetic community sustains 150 lifestyle committees and clubs including a 60-voice chorus and world affairs programs. Willamette View is also active in local politics--it even serves as its own precinct.
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Last updated February 19 2009: 1:12 PM ET