Questions To Ask When You Tour Senior Living Communities

Taking a tour of a senior living community is the most helpful way to determine if it’s a good option for you or your loved one, based on services, amenities, value and other important factors. We suggest you prepare a list of questions to use during the process as you gather information and insight. Use the following categories of questions to help understand what to look for when you tour a senior living community.

Preparing For The Next Step In Your Journey

Exterior:

Is the neighborhood appealing 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 attractive and well-maintained with gardens and trees?

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?

Interior:

How many people live in the community?

Is the community footprint easy to follow?

Are there common spaces with enough room for residents to spend time with each other and with visiting family members?

Are the common spaces in the community welcoming and homelike?

Are hallways well lit and easy to navigate, with handrails for safety and room for wheelchairs?

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?

Dining:

Are the dining rooms attractive and appealing?

How many meals per day are provided? All day or at set times?

Are snacks provided and, if so, how and when do residents get them?

Does the community cater to specific dietary needs or special requests?

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?

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?

Is there adequate closet and storage space?

Do available apartments have an attractive view?

Do all units have a telephone? Cable TV? Internet access?

Is the community smoke-free?

Is the community pet friendly?

Safety:

Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs get around with ease?

Are rooms and bathrooms equipped with emergency call buttons?

Are there handrails?

Are there sprinklers and smoke detectors?

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 Best Fit For You Or Your Loved One

These questions can help you become more confident as you tour senior living communities – and ultimately find a new future home for you or your loved one. Our associates are happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.