Important Questions To Ask During Your Senior Living Tour

When you take tours of different senior living communities, you’ll gain first-hand knowledge about the amenities, services, pricing and other important variables. Get ready for your visit by identifying and prioritizing your wants and needs. This will determine the type of community you’re looking for and narrow down your options so you can begin to tour.

Visiting a senior living community is the best way to see firsthand whether it’s a good fit. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the touring process, bring the following list of questions to help you feel as confident as possible during your visit.

Ask These Questions To Find The Best Fit For Your Loved One

Exterior:

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?

Is the neighborhood attractive 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?

Interior:

How many people 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?

Activities:

Is there a calendar of activities, and are there any activities that you or your loved one would like to participate in?

Are there social events, groups or clubs for residents?

Is transportation available?

What types of fitness classes and wellness activities are offered?

Are there scheduled outings or extended trips for residents?

Does the community offer special services such as a beauty salon?

Are there worship services?

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?

Residences:

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 residence have a private, handicapped-equipped bathroom, or is there one shared bathroom?

Are residents’ apartments personalized with photos, keepsakes or other belongings?

Is there adequate closet and storage space?

Do available apartments have an attractive view?

Do all residences have a telephone? Cable TV? Internet access?

What is provided in each residence? Can residents bring their own furniture and decorate their residence?

Is the community smoke-free?

Is the community pet friendly?

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?

Contracts & Finances:

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?

We hope you’ll use these questions to feel more comfortable as you tour senior living communities — and ultimately to find a new future home for you or your loved one. If you’re interested in touring Hamlet, our staff is happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.