If you or a senior loved one are considering a move to a senior living community, taking a tour of different communities is truly the most helpful step for many people when facing the same choice. But before you visit, be sure you define and prioritize what you’re looking for – this helps you narrow your choices according to you or your loved one’s wants and needs. Once you’ve established the type of care needed, you can begin to tour senior living communities.
Visiting a senior living community gives you the opportunity to meet the community’s staff, view the amenities, observe the residents and get a feel for the community first-hand. It’s not uncommon to feel a little overwhelmed by the whole process if you haven’t been through it before. We recommend having a prepared list of questions to help you gather additional insight and feel confident in what you’re looking for to make an informed choice. The following categories will take you through everything you need to understand when you tour senior living communities.
Planning Ahead For Your Visit
Exterior:
Is the community located in a safe neighborhood?
Is the community close to family and friends? Is it nearby church, doctor’s offices and other important locations?
Are there shopping centers or other businesses nearby?
Is the neighborhood attractive and pleasant?
Is there convenient parking outside, including handicapped spaces?
Is parking provided?
Is there an extra charge for parking? Is there covered parking?
Are the grounds appealing and well-maintained with gardens and trees?
Is there a secure, enclosed area where residents can walk and socialize?
Interior:
How many people live in the community?
Is the community footprint easy to follow?
Are there common areas with enough room for residents to spend time with each other and with visiting family members?
Are the common areas in the community cheerful and homelike?
Are hallways well lit and easy to navigate, with handrails for safety and room for wheelchairs?
Dining:
Are the dining rooms attractive and appealing?
How many meals per day are provided? All day or at set times?
Does the menu vary and offer appetizing, nutritious foods?
Are snacks provided and, if so, how and when do residents get them?
Does the community cater to specific dietary needs or special requests?
Are residents able to bring food back to their apartments? Do apartments have kitchens/kitchenettes?
Can visiting family members join residents in the dining areas?
Are you able to sample the menu or visit for a meal?
Is a private room available for family celebrations or private dinners?
Activities:
Is there a calendar of activities, and are there any activities that you would like to participate in?
What types of fitness classes are offered?
Are there scheduled outings or extended trips for residents?
Are there social events, groups or clubs for residents?
Is transportation available?
Are there worship services?
Does the community offer special services such as a beauty salon?
Residences:
Do most residents have a private residence or do they share with another resident?
Is it possible to tour all the different types of residences available?
Does each residence have a private, handicapped-equipped bathroom, or is there one shared bathroom?
Are residents’ apartments personalized with photos, keepsakes or other belongings?
Is there adequate closet and storage space?
Do available apartments have an attractive view?
Do all units have a telephone? Cable TV? Internet access?
What is provided in each unit? Can residents bring their own furniture and decorate their residence?
Is the community smoke-free?
Is the community pet friendly?
Safety:
Are there ongoing safety protocols for visitors and residents?
Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs get around with ease?
Are the floors non-skid?
Are rooms and bathrooms equipped with emergency call buttons?
Are there handrails?
Are there sprinklers and smoke detectors?
Are there safety locks on the doors and windows?
Contracts & Finances:
Has the community provided you with a contract that details all fees and services? Is it easy to read and understand?
If there’s an entrance or community fee, how much is it and is a portion refundable?
How much is the monthly rent/service fee and what is included/not included?
What is the security deposit and is the deposit refundable?
Find The Right Community For You Or Your Loved One
When you tour communities, imagine how it would be if you or your loved one lived there. The unique personality of each senior living community should be a good match for yours. Once you find a good fit, it’s time to take the next steps in making the community your home. You’re always welcome to schedule a visit at Silver Creek – we’d love to share everything we have to offer and answer any questions you may have.