What is a continuing care retirement community?
 
A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) enhances your independence while providing peace of mind for the future. Should the need arise, the appropriate level of care and service is readily available on-site, reducing stress and interruption to your life.
 
 
How does a CCRC differ from other senior living options?
 
Unlike other options, CCRCs like The Cardinal assure you that a full continuum of service is available on-site, including a variety of independent living options and, if needed, assisted living, skilled-nursing and memory care. In other retirement communities, you may be required to leave the community when your health needs change. By offering a variety of options, services and programs, CCRCs support you in a lifestyle of independence and wellness which includes a plan for the future.
 
 
Who are the key partnerships at The Cardinal?
 
The partnership of Kane Realty Corporation, Drucker & Falk, LLC, Duke University Health System and Banyan Senior Living means that The Cardinal will be owned and managed by well-established leaders in development, management and health care.
 
 
What types of residences are available?
 
The Cardinal features luxury independent-living residences in the center of North Hills, offering a variety of one- and two-bedroom floor plans. Each finely appointed residence features a terrace; individual heating and air conditioning controls; washer/dryer; a smoke detection system; underground parking; an emergency response system; and a complete kitchen with range, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave oven.
 
 
If a couple is living in the community and the care needs of one spouse changes, can the independent spouse remain in their home?
 
One of the most reassuring benefits of CCRCs is that a spouse who is independent can stay home while the spouse who requires a higher level of care can easily relocate to on-site assisted living, skilled-nursing or memory care.
 
 
What types of fees are required for moving to The Cardinal?
 
CCRCs are developed and operated by organizations with extensive experience in managing retirement communities, delivering quality lifestyle and health care services while containing costs. To operate in this manner, there is a one-time entrance fee and a monthly fee.

The entrance fee ensures lifetime residency and access to higher levels of care, and the monthly fee covers cost of services such as dining, housekeeping, maintenance, parking, scheduled transportation, wellness programs and 24-hour emergency response.
 
 
What is The Cardinal’s shared appreciation entrance fee program?
 
The Cardinal at North Hills offers a 90% refundable entrance fee program which delivers a known and certain return. In addition to the guaranteed 90% refund, residents also receive a 50% shared appreciation incentive, returning half of any increase in their residence's value when the entrance fee is refunded.
 
 
Who oversees CCRCs and their financial operations?
 
The financial operation and solvency of CCRCs are closely monitored by the North Carolina Department of Insurance. Laws require that reservation deposits and entrance fees be placed in an individual escrow account at a financial institution approved by the state. These funds remain in escrow until the community proves that it has met stringent state requirements. The state continues to regulate the community after the release of the funds and requires the community to maintain sufficient cash reserves.