Touring a senior living community is one step on a journey that will determine where and how you or your senior loved one will spend each day for many years to come. Visiting a community gives you the opportunity to meet the community’s staff, view the amenities, chat with current residents, and get a feel for the community first-hand. It’s not uncommon to feel a little overwhelmed by the whole process as there are many things to consider. We recommend having a prepared list of questions at your visit to help you gather additional insight and feel confident in making an informed decision.
Here are some of the best questions to ask when touring senior living communities.
What are the living arrangements like?
Most communities offer a wide range of living arrangements in various sizes, layouts, and locations. These may include boutique-style apartments to more spacious villas or cottage homes. Tour the community’s living spaces to get a feel for the floorplan and amenities. Look closely at the finishes, kitchen appliances, storage space, and safety features. Can residents personalize furnishings or décor? Does the space suit your needs and preferences? Is it pet-friendly?
What amenities and services are available?
During your tour, inquire about the services and amenities provided within the community.
Understanding these offerings will give you a sense of the overall lifestyle, culture, and level of care the community can provide. Popular services and amenities to look for include:
- Transportation services
- Housekeeping services
- Vibrant event and social calendar
- Fitness center
- Dining options
- Shared living spaces, like large courtyards and game rooms
What are my dining and meal options?
As you tour different communities, ask about the dining services. How many meals do you get a day? Are there a variety of dining options from restaurant-style to grab-and-go items? What about special dietary needs? Consider having a meal in the community to sample the quality of the food, observe the dining experience, and even talk with other residents.
What Is the continuum of available care?
A community that feels like the perfect fit now may not suit your loved one’s needs in the future. You will want to find out if the community is a place where residents can transition to assisted living or another level of care if needed. Many communities offer continuum care services under one roof—independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation, long-term skilled nursing care, and respite—so that residents can age-in-place as care needs change and progress.
How much will it cost?
Finances are a major factor in the decision-making process for senior living. After you have toured a community and decide that it is on your top list of choices, make sure you get a clear cost breakdown. Questions to consider include:
- What are the monthly costs for housing and care?
- What services and amenities are included in those costs? What services are add-ons?
- What are the community’s payment options?
Work with our team at Senior Living Experts
We understand that finding the right senior living arrangements for your loved one is challenging and overwhelming. Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. At Senior Living Experts, our professional senior advisors are here to help you—at no cost to you! We partner with families to explore senior living communities that fit your loved one’s lifestyle, physical needs, and budget. Your advisor will make the entire process as easy as possible and even accompany you on your community tours.
To learn more, contact Senior Living Experts today. We look forward to working with you!
