Deciding to move to a community is an important decision that’s worth careful thought and consideration. As you do your research and visit communities, the more informed you are going in, the more informed you’ll be coming out. Or, said another way, the more you know to ask about the more information you’ll get in return. That’s why figuring out what you want out of a community and having a list of questions to ask before you schedule a senior living tour is vital. Here are some suggestions to help you find a choice you can feel good about for years to come.
Senior Living Community Tour Tips
Set your criteria
To help you evaluate communities with consistent criteria, draw up a list of “wants” and “needs.” At Santa Marta, we believe you should choose a place where you can live comfortably and happily, and where you feel safe. There should be amenities, services, and activities that interest you, and people you can see yourself being friends with.
Listen to Word of Mouth
Another helpful tip for exploring your senior lifestyle options is to ask friends and neighbors what they know about the communities you’re considering. You can also check news sources to see if they’re mentioned. Although, in most cases, no news is good news.
Be Proactive
Once you’ve narrowed down your list based on your criteria , contact them to schedule a personal tour.
Tour Time
Before going on your senior living tour, if there’s a specific floor plan you’d like to see, see if you can walk through it. You might also consider asking if you could participate in an activity or class or have a meal in the dining room. At Santa Marta, we’d love it if you joined us for lunch with a few of our residents. We think it’s a good way to get to know the friendly people who live here and sample our amazing chef-prepared menu.
Retirement Community Tour Checklist
To help you check some of the below items off your list, try to find opportunities to talk to residents in a more relaxed setting where you can ask them questions.
First Impressions
- Are the community’s buildings, paths, and exterior well maintained?
- Do staff members greet you warmly and introduce themselves?
- Are there ramps, handrails, wide doorways, and other modifications for safety and accessibility?
- Do you see a genuine connection between staff members and residents?
- Are common areas and amenities such as the fitness center or pool clean and well maintained?
- Do residents seem happy and engaged?
- Are the interiors, especially kitchens and bathrooms, well lit?
- What’s the noise level outside of the apartment?
- Will the community allow you to repaint the walls or update appliances?
- Can you bring your pet? Are there any restrictions?
- What does the meal plan cover?
- Does the community have a formal and a casual dining option?
- Do most of the items on the menu sound appealing to you?
- Do residents seem to be enjoying the dining experience?
- Can the kitchen accommodate special dietary needs if necessary?
- Is there a private dining room where you could host a family celebration?
Outdoor Areas
- Does the community offer outdoor places for recreation and relaxation?
- Is there a security team on the grounds?
- How is guest access to the community controlled?
- Are there areas for pets, such as a dog park?
Activities
- What can you expect in a typical month on the activities calendar?
- What do residents do for fitness, entertainment, and social get- togethers?
- What are some of the more popular classes?
- Are seasonal or other special events held in the community?
- Can residents suggest and initiate a new activity or club?
Future Neighbors
- Does anyone have a spouse or partner in another part of the community like assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing? If so, what’s that experience like?
- How do residents rate the quality of life compared to living in their previous home?
- What do they wish they’d known before moving in?
- How much does it cost to join the community?
- What’s included in the price of the community?
- How does it compare to living in your current home?
- What are the breakdowns of the various entrance fee and monthly fee options?
- If you’re moving in with a spouse, what is the second person fee?
- Do you need to pass medical requirements before qualifying as a resident?
- What kinds of tax deductions might you be eligible for?
There’s No Experience Like First-Hand Experience
When you consider all the services and amenities available to you today and the security of having a plan for tomorrow, a senior living community may be more affordable than you think. To set up a personal tour of our senior lifestyle — including our beautiful campus — and to learn more about our independent living, contact one of our friendly senior living counselors.
