Questions and Answers
What does LifeCare mean?
A LifeCare or Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is a planned retirement community for older adults who want the security of knowing they will receive the care they need throughout the later years of their lives. El Castillo is a full service CCRC that offers a long-term contract that provides for a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living and nursing services, as well as emergency assistance, all on one campus.
What will El Castillo provide?
In exchange for a one-time LifeCare Entrance Fee and monthly fees, residents may have a comfortable home at El Castillo for the rest of their lives.
What do the monthly service fees include? What are some of the amenities at El Castillo?
We have an extensive list that includes everything from meal service to security, from a library to a heated outdoor pool. Click here for details.
What is the age requirement?
The minimum age to move into El Castillo is 65.
What if my health needs change after moving into El Castillo?
The purpose of LifeCare is to give you options and security. As your needs change, we will work closely with you, your physician, and family members to provide services and make accommodations, or—if necessary—to assist you in transitioning to a higher level of care.
Is there a Waiting List?
Yes. We have a list of people who do not yet meet our age requirements, and people who aren’t quite ready to move in. There is a fee for joining the Wait List and complete details are available from our Director of Marketing.
How far in advance should I plan to move to El Castillo?
Many of our residents tell us, "I wish I had done this sooner!" The best time to make these vital decisions about your future is when you're independent and healthy. Waiting too long could put extra strain on you and your family as you go through the natural occurences that come with aging. When you join us at El Castillo, you benefit from our amazing array of activities and amenities, and you have peace of mind knowing that you may have a comfortable home for the rest of your life, surrounded by a community of friends.
Are there tax advantages for El Castillo Residents?
There may be tax advantages for El Castillo residents as several IRS rulings have established that a portion of a LifeCare community monthly service fees are deductible as prepaid medical expense. These health care tax deductions are only available through LifeCare communities such as El Castillo. As always, you should discuss your individual tax situation with your personal tax advisor. In addition, as a LifeCare resident, you do not pay State of New Mexico gross receipts tax on El Castillo services.
What is an “associate” resident?
When space is available, we allow associate residents into our Assisted Living and Nursing Care units. They do not pay an entrance fee, but pay monthly fees comparable to those charged at other Santa Fe facilities for the same services. In addition, you do not pay State of New Mexico gross receipts tax on these services.