When choosing the right senior living community for you or a loved one, it’s important to be prepared with a list of questions during your tour to make the process go smoothly. Quality senior living communities should be proud of the care they provide. Consider it a red flag if a community is reluctant to answer questions or show you around the campus.
In this blog, curated by the Abe’s Garden Community team, we share important questions you should ask on a senior living tour.
Top questions to ask on your senior living tour
In addition to the following questions, make sure you check out the online reviews, reach out to people who live or work at the community, and explore the website to gain as much information as you can before your visit.
#1 What is the specific cost, and what does that include? Will the cost change over time, or is it based on the services we use?
#2 What are the accommodations like? Do the residences come with appliances or furniture?
#3 Are there any limitations on visitors?
#4 What medical assistance is available? Do you have rehabilitative care?
#5 What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
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#6 What is the outdoor space like?
#7 What safety precautions does the community take to keep the campus secure?
#8 What dining options are available? Can you accommodate special diets or requests?
#9 What activities are available? How do you encourage an active lifestyle?
#10 Are staff available 24/7? What specific training does your team have?
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Additional tips for a successful senior living tour
You’ll also want to ask about the community’s ownership and management, the stability of the leadership team, and the latest state and resident/family/staff satisfaction surveys. As you tour the community, note cleanliness, staff behavior, and safety. Jot down your observations so you can refer to them later when comparing community visits.
Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. The more you know about a community, the more confident you’ll feel about your decision. You can request references to gain deeper insight into the campus. Ask the references what they like most and least about the community. Try to get a feel for the culture to ensure the community is aligned with your values, interests, and needs.
Lastly, include loved ones and trusted advisors in the decision-making process. Moving to senior living is a significant life event, and it is essential to thoroughly research your options.
Are you ready to explore senior living?
Download our free guide, “The Complete Guide to Choosing Between Senior Living Options,” to help you understand the options available to you or your loved one. You’ll learn the differences between the levels of care, what costs to expect, how to create a budget, and what questions to ask when visiting communities.