Think of all the reasons you enjoy the holidays: the decorations, the food, coming together with family and friends. These are also the very reasons a senior living holiday visit is such a great idea. It gives you a chance to experience the lifestyle (including sampling the food and activities), and it’s an ideal time to meet the residents and their families.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year (to Tour Senior Living Communities)
If you’re choosing a retirement community for yourself or a loved one, here are some compelling reasons to tour your options during the holidays:
- Inclusiveness: How does a community honor different beliefs and cultures? With holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa occurring during the winter months, a tour lets you see firsthand how the community embraces various faiths and traditions. This can be especially important if spiritual considerations play a role in your decision.
- Socializing: The holidays are a time of celebration, making people especially outgoing and friendly. Touring now is a great way to meet new people, and you’ll have plenty of built-in conversation starters to help break the ice.
- Festive Decorations: Communities are often beautifully decorated during the holidays, knowing many families visit this time of year. It’s also a way to recreate some of the traditions residents enjoyed in their own homes.
- Family Time: Because families gather during the holidays, you’re more likely to meet current residents and their visiting loved ones.
- Holiday Celebrations: Special events and activities make it easy to get to know people. Some communities host craft workshops, holiday dessert demonstrations, or open-house tours where select residents showcase their decorated apartments. You may also be able to attend musical performances featuring resident choirs or bands. Experiences like these give you a clear sense of how residents interact with one another and with staff—and provide a glimpse into the community’s unique spirit and energy.
- New Year Rush: Many people resolve to simplify their lives or explore senior living options at the start of a new year. Touring during the holidays helps you get ahead of the January rush.
- Seasonal Savings: Most communities increase entrance fees or monthly service fees at the beginning of the year. Touring in late fall or early winter gives you a better chance of locking in current rates. You may even encounter special incentives such as moving allowances or discounted fees for a limited time.
- Family Meeting: Since loved ones are often together during the holidays, planning senior living holiday visits now allows you to get everyone’s input. It also gives you an opportunity to reassure your family, answer questions, and share your vision for the future.
Checklist for Choosing a Retirement Community
First Impressions
- Are the buildings, paths and exterior of the community well maintained?
- Do staff members greet you warmly and introduce themselves?
- Are there ramps, handrails, wide doorways and other modifications for 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?
Residences
- 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?
- How far will you be from dining venues and other amenities?
- Are pets welcome?
Dining
- What does the meal plan cover?
- Does the community have a formal and a casual dining option?
- Are you able to sit in for a mealtime?
- 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
- Are paths and landscaping well maintained?
- 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?
- Where is the garage for residents’ cars?
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
- Can you attend an activity or event where you can meet residents?
- Can you get residents’ candid opinions on living in the community?
- Does the resident have a spouse or partner in another part of the community, e.g., memory care or skilled nursing, and what’s that experience like?
- How do residents rate the quality of life compared to living in their previous home?
Community Costs
- How much does it cost to join the community?
- What’s included when you live in 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 are moving in with a spouse, what is the second person fee?
- Does the community offer entrance fee refundability to help protect your estate?
- Do you need to pass medical requirements before qualifying as a resident?
- What kinds of tax deductions might you be eligible for?
Enjoy the Gift of a Practical Plan for Your Future.
Santa Marta is a vibrant Life Plan Community offering independent living and a range of senior care options. To learn more about our lifestyle and the benefits of our continuum of care, contact one of our senior living counselors today. If you’re considering assisted living for yourself or a family member, you can review our assisted living checklist here.
