FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Click below for a list of commonly asked questions and answers.
What is a CCRC or a Life Plan Community?
Continuing Care Retirement Communities also known as Life Plan Communities are communities designed for older adults. They offer a continuum of care including independent living, in-home services, assisted living, skilled nursing, and short-term rehabilitative services all in a campus setting. Givens Estates is a CCRC/LPC which offers all these services in an environment designed to support residents in their pursuit of purpose driven lives.
What type of contract does Givens Estates offer?
Givens Estates is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Insurance. Under the guidelines of the DOI, we offer a Type C contract. A Type C contract is a Fee for Service contract. At Givens Estates you only pay for health services as you need them. You do not pre-pay for health services as you would with a Type A contract.
What are the fees?
Givens Estates residents pay a one-time Entrance Fee and a Monthly Fee for their residency in Independent Living. The community offers three types of Entrance Fees with differing refundability. You have the option to choose a non-refundable Entrance Fee or one that is 50% or 90% refundable. Your Monthly Fee includes services such as weekly housekeeping, a monthly meal allowance, maintenance, groundskeeping, campus security, scheduled transportation and access to all the amenities and activities on campus. You also have priority access to our higher care in Wood Assisted Living and the Givens Estates Health Center.
Are the fees tax deductible?
At Givens Estates a portion of your Monthly Fees and your Entrance Fee (in the year you moved-in) are tax deductible as a medical expense. Each year we provide a letter to residents with those figures. Please consult your tax advisor regarding your eligibility to claim this deduction.
Is Givens Estates Accredited?
Yes, Givens Estates has been accredited by CARF since 1993. The community also has an A- Fitch Rating. Both CARF accreditation and a Fitch Rating indicate to you that the community is well managed and has a strong financial position. Giving you peace of mind that the community will be here for the long term.
May I customize my home to suit my taste?
Yes, residents may choose from a variety of interior finishes to customize their home. Some selections will be considered an upgrade for an additional fee. Once you select your future home, you will meet with our Move-in Coordinator who will guide you through the selection and customization process.
Do you allow pets?
Yes, pets are welcome at Givens Estates. Residents may have up to two dogs or two cats. Pets residing in Oxford Commons and Asbury Commons cannot exceed 40 lbs. Pets anywhere else on campus cannot exceed 70 lbs. Both dogs and cats must be walked on a leash. We ask that you provide information about your pet’s vaccine records and have a contingency plan for your pet’s care in the event you are unable to care for them.
Tell me about your Wellness Program.
Life enrichment is not just a class to attend or a webinar to join, it’s a philosophy we live by. It is a belief that wellness is not passive, but rather an active pursuit of a healthy, balanced life. At Givens Estates, it is our mission to provide residents with opportunities that support holistic living, personal growth, and individual fulfillment. Our Prism Life Enrichment program includes Art & Culture, Fitness, Learning, Giving Back, Mindfulness, Social, and Spiritual activities.
How does the dining program work?
Each resident has a meal allowance of dining dollars to spend every month. You can spend them at any of our three dining venues, take-out, or catering. If you do not spend all your dining dollars in each month, they will be rolled over to the next month. A maximum of two months’ worth of dining dollars may be rolled over. If you spend more than your allowance in each month, the extra meals will be added to your monthly statement.
How can residents provide input to management?
The Resident Council, along with the many sub-committees, provides residents with a way to communicate with the community leadership team regarding their issues, concerns, and suggestions. Residents may also serve on the Board of Directors.
Who owns Givens Estates?
Givens Estates is a non-profit organization governed by a local board of directors. The community is affiliated with the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church; however the church has no financial or operational responsibility for the community.
Do I need to be Methodist to live at Givens Estates?
No, Givens Estates is open to people of all spirituality.
Do you have a Wait List?
Yes, Givens Estates has a Wait List for future residents. Once you join the Wait List, you become a Future Resident. Future Residents can utilize the Jordan Center, attend classes, and dine in our three dining venues. Your $1,500 deposit will be applied to the Entrance Fee of your chosen residence at the time of your move-in. You will also receive exclusive newsletters and invitations to campus events.