Questions To Ask When You Tour Senior Living Communities

Touring a senior living community is one of the best ways to see if it’s the right fit for you or your loved one. A visit allows you to explore the services, amenities and overall value firsthand, while getting a true sense of the community. We recommend preparing a list of questions in advance to guide your visit and make the most of the experience. The following categories of questions can help you know what to look for and what to ask when touring a senior living community.

Preparing For The Next Step In Your Journey

Exterior:

• Is the neighborhood appealing and friendly?
• Is there convenient parking outside, including handicapped spaces and covered spaces?
• Is parking provided, or is there an extra charge?
• Are the grounds attractive and well-maintained with trees and gardens?
• Is the community close to family and friends? Is it near churches, doctors’ offices and other important locations?
• Are there shopping centers and other businesses nearby?

Interior:

• How many people live in the community?
• Is the community footprint easy to follow?
• Are there spacious common spaces that allow residents to spend time with one another and visit family members?
• Are the community’s shared spaces warm and welcoming?
• Are hallways well lit and easy to navigate, with room for wheelchairs and handrails for safety?

Activities:

• Is there a calendar of activities, and are there any activities that you would like to join?
• What types of fitness classes are offered?
• Are there social events, groups or clubs for residents?
• Are there scheduled outings or extended trips for residents?
• Is transportation available?
• Are there worship services?

Dining:

• Are the dining rooms attractive and appealing?
• How many meals are provided per day? All day or at set times?
• Are snacks provided? If so, how and when do residents get them?
• Does the community accommodate specific requests or dietary needs?
• Are you able to sample the menu or visit for a meal?
• Can visiting family members join residents in the dining areas?
• Is a private room available for family celebrations or personal dinners?

Residences:

• Do most residents have a private residence, or do they share with another resident?
• Is it possible to tour 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 pet-friendly?
• Is the community smoke-free?

Safety:

• Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs get around with ease?
• Are there handrails?
• Are rooms and bathrooms equipped with emergency call buttons?
• 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 it refundable?

Find The Best Fit For You Or Your Loved One

These questions can help you feel more confident as you tour senior living communities and take the next step toward finding a new home for yourself or your loved one. Our friendly associates are always happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.