Take care while shopping: Since 2008, a few communities around the country and one large operator, Erickson Retirement Communities, have sought bankruptcy protection. (Erickson was bought and renamed Erickson Living.) Other CCRCs have cut staff, reduced services or postponed opening assisted-living or skilled-nursing units.

WSJ: Family Value: Beyond Long-Term Care

During this time, I assisted my mother in opening her own real estate firm and focused on educating first time home buyers.

WHITEHOUSE: Building Long Lasting Relationships