The Importance of Accreditation in Senior Living Communities
Glossy brochures and guided tours can show you the physical beauty of a campus. Still, one of the most important considerations is finding accredited senior living communities, such as Terwilliger Plaza in Portland, Oregon. It's common to hear companies tout their licensure and insurance, but a very small percentage have accreditation, which acts as a seal of approval from independent, third-party organizations. It signifies that a community has voluntarily undergone rigorous evaluations and met high standards of excellence. For Members and their families, these credentials provide an objective measure of trust. They offer the assurance that a community is committed to proven performance in governance, finance, and Member well-being.
What Is a Continuing Care Retirement Community?
Terwilliger Plaza is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that offers a supportive environment that evolves alongside you. We offer a continuum of care that spans independent living, assisted living with 24/7 on-site licensed nurses, and memory support services for Members experiencing cognitive decline. This model allows Members to age in place, surrounded by friends and familiar faces, even as their health needs change over time.
Quality Assurance in Retirement Homes
In a crowded market, many communities claim to offer superior service. However, accreditation separates those who say they provide quality care from those who actually prove it.
Achieving accreditation isn't a requirement; it's a choice. Our community has dedicated itself to transparency and continuous improvement by inviting external surveyors to inspect our operations. The reason is simple. It translates to peace of mind because our Members understand we have protocols in place for safety, financial solvency, and high-quality healthcare. It ensures that the environment is managed efficiently and that the staff is trained to handle the complexities of aging services.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Terwilliger Plaza has always been about creating a community where people can belong and thrive. As the only representative self-governed CCRC in the country, we have a unique responsibility to our Members. Earning trust requires rigorous external validation. Currently, we hold prestigious distinctions that set us apart in the senior living landscape. We're one of only two accredited CCRCs in the state of Oregon, and the only CCRC to hold a SAGECare platinum-level credential for inclusivity. These awards reflect our holistic approach to community life, prioritizing financial health, operational excellence, and a deeply inclusive culture.
SAGECare Platinum Credential
Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our mission. We believe that every Member, employee, and guest should be treated with equality, kindness, and dignity. To back up this philosophy with action, Terwilliger Plaza has earned the SAGECare Platinum Credential.
SAGECare is a division of SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders), the country’s oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ older adults. With more than 7 million LGBTQ+ people projected to be 65 or older within the next decade, creating culturally competent environments is essential.
We're proud to be the only CCRC in Oregon recognized with this achievement. Earning the Platinum Credential means that a high percentage of our staff has completed specialized cultural competency training. This ensures we remain a welcoming community for everyone and a community that celebrates inclusivity and advocates for the well-being of all Members.
CARF-CCAC Accreditation
CARF-CCAC (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities - Continuing Care Accreditation Commission) is widely considered the gold standard in our industry. In fact, less than 10% of Continuing Care Retirement Communities nationwide achieve this status. Terwilliger Plaza has been recognized with CARF-CCAC accreditation since 1997.
To earn this seal, we must meet or exceed over 1,200 measurements of excellence. These cover everything from health and safety to the critical issues of governance and finance. Because moving to a CCRC involves a financial investment, knowing your community meets rigorous fiscal standards provides an added layer of security. It confirms we're managed responsibly and are well-positioned for the future.
Recognized for Sustainability and Green Initiatives
Our commitment to the future also extends to the environment. We acknowledge the land on which we live and work, and we strive to be good stewards of our natural resources. Terwilliger Plaza is on the roster of the "100 Best Green Workplaces in Oregon." For years, we've implemented sustainability practices that include high-efficiency mechanical systems, heat recovery, and controlled carbon emissions. From simple steps like composting to complex infrastructure designs, we're passionate about maintaining a healthy environment for our Members, staff, and the wider Portland community.
Schedule an In-Person Tour of Terwilliger Plaza
Accreditation is about more than hanging a certificate on the wall. It's a reflection of values. Terwilliger Plaza's certified senior living community is rooted in community, self-governance, and the promise of a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. By adhering to the strict standards of CARF-CCAC and SAGECare, we ensure our Members enjoy a life of security, respect, and vibrant engagement. Whether you're drawn to us for our history, our inclusive culture, or our continuum of care, these accreditations stand as proof of our enduring commitment. Contact us to schedule a tour.