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Oak Hammock’s Frequently Asked Questions

What type of community is Oak Hammock?

Oak Hammock is a university-affiliated Life Plan Community (formerly known as a Continuing Care Community, or CCRC) for adults age 55 and older located in Gainesville, Florida. Life Plan Community is a term used to describe a planned residential community offering several levels of health care services and independent living in addition to housing options, social and recreational services. Most Life Plan Communities also require a significant entrance fee and ongoing monthly fee for services and amenities and provide access to various types of care.

Oak Hammock has evolved the “continuing care retirement community” concept into a forward-thinking, advanced approach for the older adult lifestyle – creating an environment for lifelong learning, optimum health and fitness, creativity and personal growth. In addition to an upscale lifestyle and an impressive range of amenities, Oak Hammock offers comprehensive Life Care contracts that significantly reduce the costs of long-term care for residents.

Do residents have to be alumni of the University of Florida?

No. Although Oak Hammock has a number of residents who are affiliated with UF, we also have residents with many different backgrounds and affiliations.

Is there an age requirement to join?

You are eligible to become a member if you are age 55 or older by the time of your move to Oak Hammock, although a spouse or second occupant may be younger (non-member status). Call one of our team members for more information.

Are there any other requirements for residency?

Yes. Independent living at Oak Hammock is designed for people who are active and independent at the time they reserve their new home, and a health screening is required. However, we have several contracts from which to choose that will accommodate people with preexisting diagnoses, and the clinicians at the Health Pavilion may also accept direct admissions provided there is availability. Financial assessments are conducted as part of the reservation process. Call one of our team members for additional details.

Are pets allowed?

Yes, we are pet-friendly! We have a large, well appointed dog park and even have a pet clinic on-site run by experts from the College of Veterinary Medicine at UF.

What fees do residents have to pay?

Communities like Oak Hammock, which provide lifetime residences and long-term health care, require an entrance fee and an ongoing monthly fee for services and amenities. The entrance fee ensures that we will be able to provide our residents with top-quality services and amenities. A portion of the entrance fee includes a pre-funded component for health care services – very much like a long-term care insurance policy. The entrance fee and the monthly fee increase as your square footage per residence increases. Entrance fees range from approximately $300,000 to over $1 million, and fees vary depending on which contract is chosen and the number occupants per residence.

Is a portion of my entrance fee considered a medical prepaid tax deduction?

Yes. Oak Hammock offers a modified Life Care contract that is one of the most comprehensive long-term care policies on the market. A portion of this entry fee is considered tax deductible as a prepaid medical expense. The amount of the deduction is determined by the IRS each year and differs between couples and singles. We recommend a consultation with tax advisors regarding such deductions on the Life Care contract. In addition, Oak Hammock offers other contracts with similar medical tax deductions.

What type of health care is offered?

The central focus of Oak Hammock is the promotion of health and well-being through holistic, preventive and wellness-oriented programs. However, should residents need long-term care services, we offer a full continuum, including private accommodations in assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing.

Is it true that people live longer and healthier lives in communities like Oak Hammock?

Yes! Research has documented that maintaining an active social life and having prompt access to health care can increase longevity, even if you cannot exercise. At Oak Hammock, we have created an environment where everyone has the opportunity to remain as productive and independent as possible, regardless of physical decline or health setbacks.

I have a long-term care insurance policy now. May I use it at Oak Hammock?

Yes, Oak Hammock offers contract options that will work well in conjunction with your current long-term care policy.

Is transportation provided to Oak Hammock residents, free of charge?

Yes. Oak Hammock provides transportation to various activities. There is a monthly printed schedule for transportation to off-site amenities such as grocery stores, libraries, UF campus visits, sporting events, cultural events and shopping centers with no additional fee for scheduled events. With advance notice, personal transportation may also be scheduled and provided for a nominal fee.

Is Oak Hammock a not-for-profit corporation?

Yes, Oak Hammock is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with a volunteer board of directors that is responsible for ensuring the success of the community and its mission.

Where is Oak Hammock located?

Oak Hammock is located minutes away from the University of Florida campus and UF Health, including Shands Hospital, a nationally recognized leader in health care.

Where can I get more information?

Contact the Oak Hammock sales & marketing team:
Oak Hammock at the University of Florida
5100 SW 25th Blvd.
Gainesville, FL 32608
Phone: 352-548-1024

We look forward to hearing from you!