Are you considering if senior living could be the perfect choice for you or a loved one?
Whether a helping hand is needed with the tasks of daily living or you are ready to launch the maintenance-free and active retirement life of your dreams, a community can provide exactly what you need.
Before making the final decision, however, you’ll want to visit the different options in your area. Understanding your needs and preferences is also essential before you begin to tour senior living communities.
Questions to Ask When You Tour a Senior Living Community
Preparing ahead of time for your visits can help you make an informed decision about the community – and which one will be the best fit for yourself or your loved one.
Of course cost is important and you’ll want to understand the details of what is included in the fees. But when considering your quality of life, it’s also critical to look beyond the finances when choosing where your next home will be.
Consider asking the following questions when touring a senior living community to best determine if this is the right place for you to age and live well:
1. What residential choices are available?
This will be your new home so you’ll want to make sure they have options that meet your needs. You’ll want to see actual apartments when you tour a senior living community but also ask about what floorplans are available, where different apartments are located in the community, possible views and whether a deck or patio is included.
2. What level of assistance is available if needed?
If you or a loved one will require help with a few of the daily tasks, such as bathing, getting dressed or managing medications, you’ll want to discuss what services the community offers. You may also want to consider any future needs you or a parent may have to determine if a move would likely be necessary.
3. What type of activities and social events are offered?
Living an engaged and active life is a priority for most older adults, as they understand the impact interactions can have for both their physical and emotional health. When you tour a senior living community, ask to look at a calendar of monthly activities and events to gain a better glimpse of the variety offered and whether there are several that meet your interests.
Download our complimentary guide, Choosing the Right Senior Living Community – A Step by Step Guide for Making an Informed Decision.
4. What type of dining program is available?
Eating healthy is another key to aging well but you’ll also want to ensure that your new home provides the choices that will appeal to your appetite. Ask if you can look at a menu or better yet arrange to share a meal with the other residents so you can see firsthand the dining experience.
5. What opportunities are available to help new residents feel welcome?
Many older adults discover that meeting and making new friends has become more difficult. They may have also lost close friends or family members. The good news is that communities make it easy to create new friendships. When you tour a senior living community, ask how they can help you or a loved one feel at home after moving in.
6. Are there on-site fitness activities or classes?
You also know that staying in shape – physically, mentally and emotionally – plays a major key in living a high-quality life. Getting to a gym or classes may have been difficult when you were living at home but it’s a great benefit in community life. Ask to see the fitness opportunities offered or participate in a class and ensure you’ll be able to meet your wellness goals.
7. Are transportation options available for the residents?
If you are no longer driving, or driving less, you’ll want to discuss any transportation options when you tour a senior living community. Typically, you’ll find scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping or entertainment. Residents don’t want to feel left out and appreciate leaving the traffic and parking to someone else.
8. What safety and security features are available in the community and residences?
Increased worries about becoming injured or ill, especially if living alone, aren’t uncommon. If you or a loved one is becoming more concerned about safety or security, a senior living community can help you rest assured. Ask about any added safety features provided in your personal residence and community. Residents also appreciate knowing they are never alone if help is needed.
The Charleston Senior Living Community
Locally owned and operated, we offer personalized care by our dedicated team members. Setting a new standard in Assisted Living and Memory Care, we don’t define our residents by their limitations or illness but instead believe in focusing on the positive and the possibility.
The Charleston Senior Community includes private apartments for assisted living residents and for those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Your loved ones will benefit from our attention to detail, routine health assessments, delicious dining and daily activity programs as we support everyone to live their best life.
Consider a few of our amenities:
- Chef-led dining program
- Community movie theater
- Salon
- Ballroom
- Live entertainment
- Outdoor patio
- Social lounges
- Housekeeping
If you or your family is thinking about Assisted living or Memory care, we hope you will consider The Charleston Senior Community. We are a trusted resource and are here to answer any questions.
We also invite you to download our complimentary guide, Choosing the Right Senior Living Community – A Step by Step Guide for Making an Informed Decision.
