What to Look for and Questions to Ask When Touring Senior Living Communities

How it feels 

First impressions matter, and many times, the way a place feels from the very beginning can tell you a great deal. After all, walk into a bank and it will probably feel a bit formal and reserved. Walk inside a plant store and you might feel a sense of calm. Senior living is no different. You’ll have a unique impression from each community you visit; pay attention to which one matches the ambiance you are seeking. 

Questions to consider: 

• Do residents seem happy and comfortable? 
• Are you welcomed when you arrive? 
• Is there a sense of energy and activity? 
• Overall, does it feel homey and familiar? 

Getting to know the staff 

If your search for senior living calls for supportive care such as assisted living or memory care, you want to be sure that your loved one will receive compassionate, professional attention. As you continue touring senior living, interact with the staff you meet as much as possible. Watch them as they assist residents and greet visitors. 

In the right community, you’ll find staff and residents becoming one big family, where each person’s dignity is respected and honored. 

Questions to consider: 

• Do staff members appear to be enjoying interacting with residents? 
• What is the resident-to-staff ratio? 
• Are staff members available 24/7? 
• Is ongoing training available or encouraged? 

A day in the life 

When touring senior living, try to visit communities of different sizes and see how each encourages healthy socializing. Large communities may offer an array of amenities that look impressive, but are seldom used by residents who are not encouraged to leave their rooms and participate. In contrast, a residential senior home can provide the right setting for seniors to stay active and connected to one another, due to its “family-size” structure. 

Questions to consider:  

• Does there seem to be a variety of activities? 
• Are residents participating, or sitting in their rooms? 
• Is there a calendar or list of events and outings? 
• What type of therapies are offered? (pet, music, aromatherapy, etc.) 
• Are staff members engaging with residents? 

The pleasure of dining   

Mealtimes provide the perfect opportunity for residents to gather together for companionship, support, conversation and of course, delicious and nutritious food. Touring senior living should always include sampling a few meals so that you can experience how it feels to dine there. 

For seniors with memory issues, it can be especially soothing for residents if they can assist with familiar tasks, such as folding napkins, setting a table, or assisting the staff in other ways. 

Questions to consider:  

• Are meals served family-style? 
• Are dietary restrictions honored? 
• Is there an opportunity for residents to assist with setup or meal prep? 
• Is the dining atmosphere positive and cheerful? 
• Is the food good? 

Making yourself at home 

Creating a living space for yourself or for a loved one can be a positive, energizing experience. Bringing personal mementos and favorite items helps create a sense of home and is perfect for starting conversations with guests and friends. The key is to keep in mind the residence is for recharging and rest; it is not meant to be so enticing that the resident wants to be there the entire day. While touring senior living, take a peek into some apartments and suites and see what is available. 

For memory care, consider the advantages of a semi-private room which can be of great benefit to your loved one:  a roommate can be a soothing presence and assist with visual cueing for rising in the morning and settling in comfortably in the evening. 

Questions to consider:  

• Does the floor plan match your needs? 
• Are residents able to bring special mementos and furnishings? 
• Are both private and semi-private accommodations available? 
• Are residents encouraged to only sleep and rest in their rooms, and otherwise interact with others in the community? 
  

Choosing a senior living community is a big decision, but it can be easier if you focus on what matters most for you and your family. 

At Assured Senior Living, we are here to help. We provide a way for you or your loved one to receive the personalized, holistic care you both deserve, in a home-like setting. We welcome your questions. Come see us! 

The best of everything is right here. Download our free guide, Family Decision Toolkit. Or contact us today.