14 Questions to Ask During Your Tour of a Senior Living Community

1. What are the costs?

To ensure a suitable match with your financial situation, it’s important to consider the cost and value offered by a senior living community. Here are key questions to ask regarding costs:

• Can I see an apartment available at the quoted price?
• Are there additional charges for meals or specific amenities?
• What expenses are not included in the overall cost of senior living?
• What happens if I need assisted living?
• Do the prices increase annually?

Asking these questions will help you gain clarity on the financial aspects and make an informed decision about the senior living community.

2. Do you have any programs to help new residents smoothly transition into the community?

Having support makes life easier, regardless of whether you’re embarking on a cross-country move, embracing a new hobby, starting a fresh job, or navigating any other significant transition. The transition to senior living is no exception. Moving to a new community means being surrounded by unfamiliar faces in an unfamiliar environment, and it can take time to adjust and feel at ease.

Outstanding senior living communities prioritize creating a welcoming atmosphere by offering programs that facilitate an immediate sense of belonging. When exploring senior living options, it is essential to inquire about these specific programs and gain insight into what you can expect during your initial weeks.

3. Do you have a money-back guarantee?

Many of us can relate to the experience of eagerly embracing something new, dedicating our time and resources, only to realize later that it doesn’t align with our expectations or needs. The decision to transition to senior living follows a similar pattern.

Senior living communities are not universally designed to suit everyone’s requirements, which makes it crucial to select a community that is the best fit for you. If you come to the realization that you’ve made an incorrect choice, it’s understandable to feel confined, especially if you have already made substantial financial investments upfront.

4. Are meals included? What’s the food like?

Food plays a vital role in the senior living experience since everyone needs to eat. Meals offer an opportunity to unwind, socialize, and nourish both the body and mind.

It is essential that healthy food not only meets dietary requirements but also satisfies the taste buds. Ensure that the community provides meals that  offer a variety of selections to suit different palates. Take a look at the weekly or monthly menu and consider staying for a meal to fully appreciate and savor the dining experience.

5. Can I bring my pets?

When it comes to the pet policy in senior living communities, it’s important to recognize that each community may have its own set of rules and regulations. While some communities may warmly welcome pets as part of their residents’ lives, others may have certain restrictions or guidelines in place.

To obtain accurate and detailed information about the pet policy, it is recommended to directly contact the community you are interested in. They will be able to provide you with specific information regarding whether pets are allowed, any limitations on pet size or breed, and any additional requirements or fees associated with bringing a pet.

6. Can my family visit, and can grandkids or other loved ones stay overnight?

A thriving senior living community should provide a sense of home, as it becomes your new residence. Inclusive and welcoming, these communities should not impose arbitrary rules regarding visitors and overnight guests reminiscent of summer camps. It is essential to inquire about the visitor policies to ensure that your loved ones can actively participate in your daily life and engage in the community’s activities alongside you. By understanding the visitor policies, you can choose a senior living community that encourages the presence of your family and friends, fostering a supportive and fulfilling environment.

7. How do you foster a sense of community?

Welcoming senior living communities can be recognized from the moment you step in. Instead of feeling the need to adapt or conform, you immediately sense that your presence matters and that you are valued.

The finest senior living communities embrace individuals from diverse backgrounds and then foster unity through a wide array of activities and amenities. When exploring different communities, it is important to seek clear answers regarding the initiatives taken by the community to create a sense of camaraderie among residents. By prioritizing communities that prioritize inclusivity and offer opportunities for connection, you can find a senior living community where you will not only be welcomed but also have the chance to develop meaningful relationships and feel a genuine sense of belonging.

8. What qualifications and ongoing training does the staff have?

Outstanding senior living communities prioritize the comprehensive training of their staff members to handle both the daily routine and unexpected emergencies. When considering a community, it is important to inquire about the background of the staff, including their qualifications, experience, and expertise. Additionally, it is beneficial to learn about the community’s commitment to ongoing education.

By gathering information about the staff, you can gain insights into the community’s dedication to providing a caring and nurturing environment. Choosing a senior living community that genuinely values its staff demonstrates a commitment to the well-being and happiness of its residents.

9. Is family always welcome? What family-friendly activities do you offer?

You are a part of your family, which means they’re a part of your senior living community, too. Good communities take an inclusive approach to families, encouraging frequent visits and offering family-friendly activities.

Ask which activities family members can attend and whether the community offers activities tailored to younger family members so you can enjoy some time with the children in your life.

10. What specific amenities and activities does your community offer?

While many senior living communities provide a comprehensive list of past amenities and activities, it’s important to delve deeper into the specifics. Understanding whether certain offerings are ongoing or one-time occurrences, as well as any associated costs, can help you make an informed decision.

Here are some questions to inquire about the amenities:

1. Present offerings: What amenities is the community currently providing?
2. Activity schedule: Can I see a schedule of the current activities? How will the activity schedule change in the upcoming month?
3. Standard offerings: Are there any activities or programs that the community consistently provides?
4. Resident input: Do you introduce new activities based on resident feedback and suggestions?
5. Resident preferences: Does the community cater to a specific type of person, such as residents who enjoy sports, outdoor activities, or crafting?

By asking these questions, you can gain a clearer understanding of the amenities and activities available in the senior living community, ensuring that they align with your interests and preferences.

11. Do you offer transportation?

Having reliable transportation options can significantly alleviate stress and enhance the overall experience in a senior living community, regardless of whether you have a strong affinity for driving or prefer not to drive at all. For residents who currently drive, community transportation can offer convenience and the opportunity to enjoy the surroundings without the burden of driving responsibilities. On the other hand, for those who don’t drive, having accessible transportation options becomes essential for staying connected with the outside world, without having to solely rely on friends or family.

A senior living community with a robust transportation service holds significant advantages. It ensures that residents can easily access essential services, engage in social activities, and maintain a sense of independence and freedom. When exploring different communities, it is important to inquire about the availability and reliability of their transportation services, including scheduled trips, destinations covered, and any associated costs.

By prioritizing a community with a reliable transportation service, you can enjoy the convenience and peace of mind knowing that you have easy access to explore the world beyond the community’s boundaries and continue to lead an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

12. Are the staff committed and compassionate?

When choosing a senior living community, an essential aspect to consider is the presence of a dedicated and contented staff. Having supportive and helpful staff members is crucial for a positive living experience. To identify an engaged and compassionate team, keep an eye out for the following signs:

1. Meaningful relationships: Observe if the staff has established meaningful connections with the residents, indicating a caring and personal approach.
2. Positive interactions: Notice if residents interact with and genuinely like the staff, as this demonstrates a friendly and harmonious environment.
3. Willingness to assist: Ensure that the staff is eager and available to answer your questions and provide assistance when needed.
4. Enjoyable conversations: Assess whether you feel comfortable and enjoy talking to the staff, as open and enjoyable communication contributes to a pleasant atmosphere.
5. Respectful and kind: Watch how the staff members treat one another, as their respectful and kind behavior towards each other reflects a supportive work environment.
6. Job satisfaction: Consider if the staff appears to genuinely enjoy their roles, as this enthusiasm can translate into a more positive overall experience for the residents.

By observing these signs, you can assess the level of engagement and compassion among the staff members, helping you choose a senior living community where you can feel confident in receiving the support and care you deserve.

13. What is the leadership structure of the community?

It is important to acknowledge that no community is flawless and can meet every expectation at all times. However, the best communities understand this reality and have established a robust accountability structure. This ensures that if any issues or concerns arise, residents are met with empathy and a prompt resolution.

When exploring senior living communities, inquire about their leadership structure and, if possible, arrange to meet the individuals responsible for overseeing the community. Understanding the accountability framework and having a personal connection with the leadership can provide reassurance that your concerns will be addressed with care and efficiency.

By asking about the community’s leadership structure and meeting the individuals involved, you can gain insight into how the community handles challenges and find confidence in their commitment to maintaining a high standard of care and responsiveness to residents’ needs.

14. Does this community feel like home?

Above all else, the most significant factor to consider when choosing a senior living community is how it feels to you. Your new home should evoke a sense of comfort, hope, and security, making you feel optimistic about the future and at ease in the present moment.

During your tour of a community, if you can envision yourself as a content and fulfilled member of that community, it serves as a promising indication. Trust your instincts and pay attention to the atmosphere and overall vibe of the place. Your intuition can guide you in finding the senior living community that truly feels like home.