Deciding on an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one can be a big step, followed by searching for and choosing a community that fits your preferences and lifestyle.
With so many choices, it’s imperative that you tour several assisted living communities in your area and make the most of your visits by making key observations and asking the right questions.
To help, we’ve compiled a list of what to look for when touring an assisted living community.
The cleanliness and upkeep of any assisted living community speak volumes about its management and staff.
Make a note of the cleanliness of the community before you even enter. Are walkways clean and well taken care of? Is the entryway clean?
As you tour the community, pay attention to the cleanliness of the common areas, living spaces, dining areas, bathrooms, fitness center, and other amenities. Do you see staff sweeping and cleaning? Does the community smell clean and sanitized?
The staff in an assisted living community can make or break your experience. Observe how staff members engage with you and the residents. Are they friendly, professional, and respectful? Are they interacting with residents? Do they appear happy to be there?
Ask the following questions:
Look at the available living accommodations. Personal living spaces are an essential part of a resident’s happiness and well-being. Are they spacious, aesthetically pleasing, and comfortable? Are they well-lit and modern? What floor plans are available, and what are the monthly fees for the ones you are considering?
Safety and security features and emergency protocols are paramount for your peace of mind and your loved one’s. Check for on-site security, secure entrances, and safety features such as handrails, video surveillance, fire alarms, step-in showers, and emergency call systems.
Ask the following safety questions:
Delicious and healthy food is critical to your health and wellness. Ask to sample a meal during your visit to assess the quality and available options.
Luxury communities like Allegro’s Fort Lauderdale assisted living dining experiences offer special themed dining events, rotating seasonal menus, interactive food committees focused on resident choice, healthy living, and seasonal ingredients.
Ensure your dining needs are met by asking the following questions:
Most senior living communities offer housekeeping, regularly scheduled transportation, personal care, and even concierge services. Expect to have access to high-end amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, movie theaters, salons, libraries, and activities rooms.
Service and amenity-related questions include:
Having an abundance of opportunities to meet and connect with peers is a significant benefit of living in an assisted living community. Observe the social environment of the community. Are residents active and having fun? Are they participating in various activities and events?
Ask the following social questions:
Moving to an assisted living community is a significant lifestyle change, and visiting several communities armed with a keen eye and a list of pertinent questions is a must. An assisted living tour is the perfect opportunity to compare different communities, talk to residents, observe the staff, view living accommodations, and experience dining options. Making crucial observations and asking the right questions will ensure you select a community that meets your needs and expectations.
Contact the friendly advisors of Allegro Senior Living for more information about senior living and to schedule your tour. Download our Guide to Funding Senior Care and Housing to learn more about the potential sources of funds to help you pay for senior living expenses.