Cedarfield is a continuing care retirement community in Richmond's West End
Cedarfield Retirement Community sits on Libbie Avenue in Richmond's West End neighborhood. It is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), which means it offers independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care on one campus — so residents can stay in the same community as their care needs change over time.
The community serves older adults who want to move into a planned residential setting with dining, activities, and healthcare available on-site. Like other CCRCs in Virginia, Cedarfield requires a financial commitment upfront and monthly fees. Understanding how that structure works, what services are included, and what questions to ask will help you decide whether it fits your situation.
Key Takeaways
- Cedarfield is a continuing care community offering independent living, assisted living, and nursing care in one location in Richmond's West End.
- Residents typically pay an entrance fee and monthly service fees; the entrance fee may be partially refundable depending on the contract type.
- You can request a tour and speak with the admissions team to learn about current floor plans, pricing, and what services are bundled into monthly fees.
- Virginia does not require CCRCs to be licensed the way nursing homes are, so ask Cedarfield directly about accreditation, inspection history, and staffing ratios.
- Financial planning for a CCRC should include understanding the contract terms, what happens if you need to leave, and how fees may increase over time.
How continuing care communities work
A continuing care retirement community is built around the idea that residents' needs change. You might move in living independently, then transition to assisted living if you need help with daily tasks, and later to skilled nursing if you require round-the-clock medical care. Staying on the same campus means you keep your home, your friends, and your routines while care levels adjust.
Cedarfield operates under a contract model. You pay an entrance fee when you move in — this is a one-time cost that may be partially or fully refundable depending on which contract you choose. Then you pay monthly service fees that cover housing, meals, activities, utilities, and access to healthcare services. Some services (like extra medical care or therapy) may cost more.
The entrance fee is substantial and varies by the size and type of apartment you select. Monthly fees also vary. Contact Cedarfield's admissions office directly to learn current pricing, as costs change and depend on your specific living space and contract type.
What to ask about services and staffing
Before visiting or moving forward, clarify what is included in the monthly fee and what costs extra. Ask whether meals are included, how many meals per day, and whether dietary accommodations are available. Ask about transportation — do they offer rides to medical appointments, shopping, or outings? What activities and programs are available, and are there additional charges?
Ask about healthcare staffing: how many nurses are on-site, what hours, and what types of medical services are available in the assisted living and nursing sections. Ask whether residents can see their own doctors or whether they must use Cedarfield's medical staff. Ask what happens if you need specialized care (like dialysis or wound care) — is it available on-site, or do you go off-campus?
Ask about the admissions process and any health requirements. Some CCRCs require a health screening or interview before accepting a resident. Ask whether there is a waiting list and, if so, how long it typically is.
Understanding the financial commitment
The entrance fee for a CCRC is not refundable in the traditional sense — it is an investment in your right to live there and access services. However, different contract types offer different refund structures. An equity contract may return a portion of the entrance fee to your estate if you leave or pass away. A fee-for-service contract typically returns little or nothing. A rental contract works more like renting an apartment and has no entrance fee, but monthly costs are usually higher.
Ask Cedarfield which contract types they offer and what the differences mean for your finances. Understand what happens to your entrance fee if you need to leave within the first few years, or if you pass away. Ask whether monthly fees increase annually and by how much in recent years. Ask whether there are any additional fees you should know about — for example, fees for extra services, guest meals, or maintenance.
If you are considering a CCRC, it is wise to work with a financial advisor or elder law attorney who can review the contract before you sign. The contract is legally binding and can be complex.
Visiting and touring Cedarfield
The best way to get a real sense of Cedarfield is to visit in person. Call their admissions office to schedule a tour. During a tour, pay attention to the cleanliness and maintenance of common areas, the friendliness of staff, and the activity level of residents. Ask to see the independent living apartments, the assisted living area, and the nursing section if possible.
Talk to current residents if you can — ask them what they like about living there and what they wish were different. Ask about the food, the activities, the staff responsiveness, and the sense of community. Speak with the admissions counselor about your specific needs and concerns.
If you are seriously interested, consider visiting more than once — perhaps at different times of day — to get a fuller picture of daily life there.
Licensing and oversight in Virginia
Virginia does not license continuing care retirement communities the way it licenses nursing homes. This means there is less state oversight of CCRCs than of skilled nursing facilities. However, CCRCs may be accredited by national organizations like the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) or the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC).
Ask Cedarfield whether they hold any accreditation and what it means. Ask about their inspection history and whether they have had any complaints filed against them. You can search for complaints through the Virginia Department of Health Professions or the Virginia Attorney General's office. Ask about their financial stability — how long have they been operating, and do they have reserves to maintain the community?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to move to assisted living or nursing care if my health changes?
No — continuing care communities do not force you to move. However, if you need 24-hour nursing care and Cedarfield determines you cannot safely live independently, they may require a move to their assisted living or nursing section. The contract should spell out the conditions under which this can happen. Ask Cedarfield about their policy during your tour.
What happens to my entrance fee if I move out or pass away?
It depends on your contract type. Ask Cedarfield to explain the refund structure for each contract option they offer. Some contracts return a percentage of the entrance fee; others return nothing. This is a major financial question and worth discussing with a financial advisor before you sign.
Are there waiting lists to move into Cedarfield?
Many CCRCs have waiting lists, especially for popular floor plans or price points. Ask Cedarfield whether there is currently a waiting list, how long it typically is, and whether you can reserve a unit by paying a deposit while you wait.
Can I bring my pet to Cedarfield?
Pet policies vary by community. Some allow cats and small dogs; others do not allow pets at all. Ask Cedarfield about their pet policy, any size or breed restrictions, and whether there are additional fees for pets.
What if I run out of money and cannot pay the monthly fees?
This is an important question to ask Cedarfield directly. Some communities have financial information programs or will work with residents on payment plans. Others may require you to leave. Understand the community's policy before you move in, and consider whether you have family support or other resources if your financial situation changes.