What questions should we ask when touring a senior living community?

📝 Senior Living Community Tour Checklist

🏠 Living Accommodations

☐ What types of apartments/rooms are available (studio, 1BR, 2BR)?
☐ Are units furnished or unfurnished?
☐ Can residents personalize or decorate their space?
☐ Are there kitchenettes or full kitchens?
☐ Are housekeeping and laundry services included?
☐ What safety features are present (e.g., grab bars, emergency call buttons)?

🧑‍⚕️ Care and Services

☐ What levels of care are offered (independent, assisted, memory care, etc.)?
☐ How are care plans created and updated?
☐ Is staff available 24/7, including overnight?
☐ What kind of medical staff is on-site (RN, LPN, etc.)?
☐ How is medication managed and administered?
☐ Can care be adjusted as needs change?

🍽️ Dining and Nutrition

☐ How many meals are provided daily?
☐ Can dietary needs or allergies be accommodated?
☐ Are meals served restaurant-style or cafeteria-style?
☐ Are snacks or beverages available throughout the day?
☐ Can guests join for meals?

💵 Costs and Contracts

☐ What is the monthly base rate and what’s included?
☐ Are there entrance, application, or community fees?
☐ What services incur extra charges?
☐ What is the rent increase policy?
☐ Are there contracts or lease terms?
☐ What’s the refund policy if a resident moves out?

👥 Lifestyle and Community

☐ What activities and events are regularly offered?
☐ Is there a fitness or wellness program?
☐ Are there group outings or transportation services?
☐ What are the visiting hours and guest policies?
☐ Are pets allowed? If so, are there restrictions?

🧹 Staff and Community Culture

☐ What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
☐ What is the average staff tenure?
☐ What training do staff receive (e.g., dementia, CPR)?
☐ Can you observe staff interacting with residents?
☐ Are there opportunities for residents to give feedback?

📋 Policies and Procedures

☐ What is the move-in process like?
☐ What happens if a resident needs more care?
☐ What is the discharge or transfer policy?
☐ How are grievances handled?
☐ Are there community rules or resident handbooks?

🔍 Observations During Tour

☐ Is the community clean, well-maintained, and odor-free?
☐ Do residents seem engaged and content?
☐ Is the environment quiet, friendly, and welcoming?
☐ Can you try a meal or attend an activity during your visit?

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