Tip to Touring a Senior Living Community

While making the decision to transition into a senior living community can be difficult for individuals, once the decision to move is made, the next step is finding the perfect community to move in to. Selecting the perfect senior living community can prove to be a bit of a challenge based on specific health care needs and personal preferences for community atmosphere and amenities. The following are 10 categories you should keep in mind when touring senior living communities. 

About the Community

When visiting an assisted or independent living community for the first time it is important to know the background on the facility and the company. Details on how long it has been owned, if it is for-profit or not-for-profit community, their operational philosophy, the longevity of staff, and access to the on-site staff is critical information to have when making the decision to move into a community. Inquire about staff and volunteers, how often owners/mangers are on site and ask yourself, does the community feel "warm" and "cozy"?

Activities and Transportation

Ask about trips and activities offered. Activities should be designed to meet the physical, intellectual, emotional, social, spiritual and vocational needs of the residents. Transportation should also be provided for medical appointments, religious services if desired as well as fun activities with their friends and family such as sporting events.

Health and Wellness Services

This is usually a priority when selecting a senior living community. You want to make sure that health and wellness programs are available including assistance with showering, dressing, escorts and medication management. Questions that should be addressed include,

• What services or programs are in place to emphasize the importance of health and wellness?
• Are nursing aides on-site 24 hours a day?
• Is there a geriatric physician on-site?

Amenities, Meals and Future Needs

Other categories include services and amenities, meals, resident agreements and future needs. To learn more about these areas as well as more information about the categories listed above we encourage you to download our free ebook, "The Essential Guide to Touring a Senior Living Community." This resource also includes a printable checklist that you can bring with you on your next tour. You can download this resource by clicking the image below.

If you would like to know more about United Methodist Homes and our assisted and independent living communities we encourage you to visit our website or contact us to learn more. We look forward to being able to help you during your senior living transition.