How To Find The Best Fit For You Or Your Loved One
Visiting each assisted living community you’re interested in also gives you the opportunity to get acquainted with the people who live and work there. A firsthand experience helps you truly get a feel for the community and lessen any possible concerns. We recommend having a prepared list of questions to keep track of differences between the communities and gather as much information as possible during your tour. Here are some categories and questions to consider as you tour assisted living communities:
Outside:
Is the neighborhood appealing and pleasant?
Is there convenient parking outside, including handicapped spaces?
Is parking provided?
Is there an extra charge for parking? Is there covered parking?
Are the grounds attractive and well-maintained with gardens and trees?
Is there a secure, enclosed area where residents can walk and socialize?
Is the community located in a safe neighborhood?
Is the community close to family and friends? Is it nearby church, doctor’s offices and other important locations?
Are there shopping centers or other businesses nearby?
Inside:
How many residents live in the community?
Is the community layout easy to follow?
Are the common areas in the community cheerful and welcoming?
Do the common areas have enough room for residents to spend time with each other and with visiting family members?
Are the hallways well-lit and easy to navigate, with handrails for safety and room for wheelchairs?
Apartments:
Do most residents have a private residence or do they share with another resident?
Is it possible to tour all the different types of residences available?
Does each apartment have a private, handicapped-equipped bathroom, or is there one shared bathroom?
Are residents’ apartments personalized with photos, mementos or other possessions?
Is there adequate closet and storage space?
Do available apartments have an attractive view?
Do all units have a telephone? Cable TV? Internet access?
What is provided in each unit? Can residents bring their own furniture and decorate their residence?
Is the community smoke-free?
Is the community pet friendly?
Dining:
Are the dining rooms attractive and appealing?
How many meals per day are provided? All-day dining or at set times?
Are you able to sample the menu or visit for a meal?
Does the menu vary and offer appetizing, nutritious foods?
Are snacks provided and, if so, how and when do residents get them?
Does the community cater to specific dietary needs or special requests?
Are residents able to bring food back to their apartments? Do apartments have kitchens/kitchenettes?
Can visiting family members join residents in the dining areas?
Is a private room available for family celebrations or private dinners?
Activities:
Is there a calendar of activities, and are there any activities that you would like to participate in?
What types of fitness classes and wellness activities are offered?
Are there scheduled outings or extended trips for residents?
Are there social events, groups or clubs for residents?
Is transportation available?
Are there worship services?
Does the community offer special services such as a beauty salon?
Safety:
Are there ongoing safety protocols for visitors and residents?
Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs get around with ease?
Are the floors non-skid?
Are rooms and bathrooms equipped with emergency call buttons?
Are there handrails?
Are there sprinklers and smoke detectors?
Are there safety locks on the doors and windows?
Finances & Contracts:
Has the community provided you with a contract that details all fees and services? Is it easy to read and understand?
If there’s an entrance or community fee, how much is it and is a portion refundable?
How much is the monthly rent/service fee and what is included/not included?
What is the security deposit and is the deposit refundable?
Getting the answers to these questions can help you stay organized and keep track of everything you learn as you tour senior living communities. Your goal is to find the best possible home for you or your loved one, so as you tour each community, try to envision whether the community’s unique personality fits with what you’re looking for. Most importantly, think about whether you can see yourself or your loved one living there comfortably and confidently. If you’d like to take a tour of Longleaf Bee Cave, please contact us so we can show you around and answer any questions you may have.