Tips for Touring Senior Living Communities

During this emotionally uncertain time, having guidance can be beneficial in deciding which living facility works best.

The Importance of a Tour

When considering a senior living community for yourself or a loved one, it is important that you take your time to tour various facilities. This allows you to have options and to find which one best suits your needs. A well-organized tour provides you with an understanding of what it looks like and where to proceed from that point.

Here are items to ensure you ask about or seek:

• What needs do you or your loved one have?

  • What level of care?

    • Is it personal care?

    • Is your care provided?

    • Do they charge more if your health declines further?

    • Are hospice and other organizations participating?

  • Does the environment align with mobility needs?

  • What is the state of environmental safety?

  • Is there security in place?

  • What do the cost or extra fees look like?

    • Is the cost private pay or can insurance be involved?

    • Ask what is included in the cost.

    • Are services such as laundry, food, and cleaning included?

  • What is the distance between the facility and family?

  • In what ways do the staff engage with one another and the residents?

    • Pay attention to how they act.

  • Do they provide medication management?

  • Do they participate in any activities?

  • How is it socially?

These are merely the fundamental questions to consider. If you have more specific inquiries in mind, it's advisable to note them down and remember to ask!

Additionally, arranging tours at various times throughout the day allows you to see the community in action, providing a clearer view of daily life.

Final Thoughts and Follow-Up

After completing your tours, take the time to reflect on each community and discuss your impressions with family members. It can be helpful to create a chart to evaluate the pros and cons of each facility. Once you have narrowed down your options, consider scheduling follow-up visits or asking for additional information to clarify any lingering questions. Making a decision about senior living is significant, and taking these steps will help ensure that you choose the right community that meets your needs and preferences.