University-based retirement communities, also known as UBRCs, are senior communities that are affiliated with a college or university. UBRCs often have the following characteristics:

• A location that is accessible to the school (within one mile of the university, preferably)
• Formalized programming incorporating the school and the community.
• A full program of continuing care, from independent to assisted living.
• A documented financial relationship between the university and the senior-housing provider