What To Ask : When You Tour
Senior Living Communities.

Exterior:

• Is the neighborhood appealing and friendly?
• Is the community located in a safe neighborhood?
• Are the grounds well-maintained and attractive, with gardens and trees?
• Is there a secure, enclosed area where residents can walk and socialize?
• Is convenient parking provided, including handicapped spaces? Is there an extra parking charge? Is covered parking available?
• Is the community close to family and friends? Are there nearby places like churches, doctors’ offices and other important locations?
• Are shopping centers or other businesses nearby?

Interior:

• How many people live in the community?
• Is the community layout easy to navigate?
• Are the common areas spacious enough for residents to spend time with visiting family members and each other?
• Are the common spaces cheerful and inviting?
• Are the hallways well-lit and easy to navigate, with space for wheelchairs and handrails for safety?

Residences:

• Do most residents have private apartments or do they share with another resident?
• Does each residence have a private, handicapped-accessible bathroom or is there one shared bathroom?
• What is included in each apartment? Are residents allowed to bring their own furniture and decorate their residences?
• Are residents encouraged to personalize their apartments with personal items, photos and mementos?
• Is there enough closet and storage space in the residences?
• Do the available apartments offer an attractive view?
• Do all apartments have a telephone, cable TV and internet access?
• Is the community pet-friendly?
• Is the community smoke-free?
• Is it possible to tour all the different types of residences available?

Safety:

• Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs move around easily?
• Are the floors non-skid?
• Do rooms and bathrooms have emergency call buttons?
• Are there handrails in necessary areas?
• Are there sprinklers and smoke detectors throughout the community?
• Are there safety locks on the doors and windows?

Dining:

• Are the dining rooms welcoming and attractive?
• How many meals are provided each day? Are they available all day or only at set times?
• Does the menu offer a variety of appetizing, healthy options?
• Does the community accommodate special requests or specific dietary needs?
• Are snacks available, and when can residents enjoy them?
• Are residents able to bring food back to their apartments? Do apartments have kitchens?
• Can visiting family members join residents in the dining areas?
• Are you able to sample the menu or visit for a meal?
• Is there a private room available for special dinners or family celebrations?

Activities:

• Is there a calendar of activities and are there any activities that you would like to join?
• Are there social groups or clubs for residents?
• Are worship services offered?
• Does the community offer additional services, such as a beauty salon or barbershop?
• Are there scheduled outings or extended trips for residents?
• Is transportation available for trips, outings and doctor appointments?

Contracts & Finances:

• If there’s an entrance or community fee, how much is it and is any portion refundable?
• What is the security deposit and is it refundable?
• How much is the monthly rent/service fee and what is included or not included?
• Has the community provided a contract that details all fees and services? Is it clear and easy to understand?