Whether you’re looking for an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one, choosing the right community is a significant decision that takes into account many factors.
Assisted living communities offer their residents assistance with their daily tasks while promoting independence and a sense of community. When touring potential assisted-living communities, it’s imperative to consider various factors to ensure you make the best choice for yourself or your loved one.
In this article, we’ll discuss what to look for and questions to ask when touring an assisted living community.
Observations to make when touring an assisted living community
Begin your observations before you enter an assisted living community:
- Does the outside look clean and inviting?
- Is the lawn well cared for?
- Does the area feel safe and secure?
Once you enter and during the tour of the community, observe the following:
- Safety features, such as guard rails and walk-in showers in apartments, well-lit common areas and pathways, emergency response systems, and watchful staff
- Cleanliness of entryway, dining rooms, bathrooms, apartments, and amenities
- Are there any odors?
- Are residents engaging with one another and staff?
- Are staff friendly and willing to help?
- Do residents seem happy and cheerful?
Questions to ask when touring an assisted living community
Make the most of your assisted living tour by being prepared with a list of questions.
Staff questions
To help you get a feel for the assisted living staff, ask the following critical questions:
- Are background checks performed on staff?
- What types of education and training are required?
- What is your staff turnover rate?
- What is your staff-to-resident ratio?
Download our free Family Decision Toolkit for helpful tips!
Questions concerning living accommodations
Make sure you’ll be comfortable by asking the following questions to make sure the community can accommodate your living preferences:
- What types of apartments are currently available?
- Are apartments furnished?
- Is it possible to view the different types of apartments?
- Are rooms equipped with cable, internet, and Wi-Fi?
- Can residents personalize and decorate their living spaces?
Cost questions
Critical cost and financial questions include the following:
- What is the fee structure?
- Are there separate charges for services and amenities?
- Is a deposit required?
- What are the billing and payment options?
- Am I required to have renters’ insurance?
- How often do fees increase?
Services and amenities questions
Residents in assisted living communities like Seasons Assisted Living can access various onsite services and amenities.
Depending on your needs and preferences, ask:
- Is daily assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and grooming, provided?
- Are there laundry and housekeeping services?
- Do you offer transportation services?
- What amenities are on-site (e.g., fitness center, spa, beauty salon)?
Social and recreational activity questions
Assisted living communities should offer a vibrant and social lifestyle for residents. The following questions will ensure you stay busy and have various opportunities to connect with other residents:
- Can I see an activity calendar?
- Do you offer transportation to local events and activities?
- What types of activities are available to residents?
- Are there opportunities to volunteer?
- Can residents suggest specific activities or events?
Dining questions
Ensure your dietary needs and meal preferences are met by asking questions about on-site dining services:
- How many meals are provided daily?
- What are my options if I get hungry after hours?
- Are snacks provided?
- How often does the menu change?
- Can I sample a meal?
- How are dietary restrictions handled?
Healthcare questions
Assisted living communities should make it easy for residents to live a healthy life. It’s crucial to ask a prospective assisted living community about the health care services available to residents:
- Are there registered nurses and physicians on staff?
- Do you offer health and wellness services?
- Are physical and health assessments performed on residents before moving in?
- Do you offer medication management or administration?
- What are your procedures for medical emergencies?
- Is transportation available to doctor appointments?
- Are there services for (physical and occupational therapy or memory care)?
Wrap-up
Touring an assisted living community is an essential step in the decision-making process.
By making observations and asking questions concerning safety, staff qualifications, services, amenities, social activities, healthcare services, and cost, you can make a well-informed decision to ensure you or your loved one is happy and well cared for.
If you’re looking for an assisted living community in Clearwater, Florida, the friendly and professional staff at Seasons Senior Living can help. Contact the caring senior living team to learn more and schedule your tour. Download our free Family Decision Toolkit for helpful tips about choosing the senior living lifestyle.
