Checking out a new place to live can be exciting; in fact, there can be so much to take in that you forget the important questions you need to ask. Before you tour a senior living community, it’s good advice to write down your most important questions: what you want and need to know so that you can make the best possible choice for you or for a loved one.
What to Ask When You Tour a Senior Living Community
Everyone’s list of questions will vary, but here are some basic questions that might best enlighten you on the lifestyle.
• What happens if my needs change?
It is good to know now whether you have a plan for the future that will cover your needs as you or a loved one grow older. Choosing a continuing care retirement community offers the reassurance of multiple levels of care, so that you can continue to reside in the community and receive the next level of care if needed.
St. Mark Village goes even further, offering seamless access to future care options as well as a Life Care Promise: guaranteed care for life. As a resident, you will receive the care you need, for as long as you need it, even if your financial situation changes.
• Are the activities and programs well-attended? Which are the most popular?
As you tour a senior living community, ask to see the activities calendar. If possible, drop in on a few of the activities to see how many residents are in attendance. Do they seem to be enjoying themselves? Is there an atmosphere of fun and relaxation?
If you have a specific hobby or interest that you don’t see represented, ask if residents are able to suggest new options for the calendar.
• A pleasant dining experience is important to me. What options do you offer?
You just can’t tour a senior living community without sampling the cuisine. Have a meal and pay attention to the atmosphere, the wait staff, and overall ambiance. Does the chef interact with residents? Are there several selections on the menu that are appealing? What about the use of local ingredients or local favorites?
Having a choice of venues is also important. Be sure to ask about your options, as well as catering a family party or event.
Download our free guide, Choosing the Right Senior Living Community.
• Which services and amenities are included and which will cost extra?
In most senior living communities, convenient services are included in the monthly fee. For example, housekeeping, maintenance, utilities, Wi-Fi, scheduled transportation, security and more. In addition, residents often have access to amenities such as a beauty shop, fitness center, game rooms, garden, pool and storage. Make sure you leave with a complete list.
• What kind of residences are available?
Ask to see model apartments or peek inside a few residences if possible as you tour a senior living community. Check to see if there are several types of floor plans, and what type of amenities and features each one offers. Ask if you can customize details to your taste, and be sure to bring home floor plans.
If you happen to be single, find out what is available. At St. Mark Village, our wide variety of plans include smartly designed studios and one-bedroom apartments with popular features—a perfect place to welcome each new day.
• Tell me about the surrounding neighborhood. Are there places to go for dining, entertainment, shopping and more?
Even in a senior living community that has everything, it’s nice to have the option to easily access a favorite dining spot, theatre, or local attraction that everyone in the family enjoys. Just ask our residents here at St. Mark Village in Palm Harbor, Florida. They’ll tell you how lucky they feel to be so close to recreation, shopping, dining, cultural events, fitness opportunities, beautiful parks and natural areas, museums and galleries, and gorgeous beaches. What a great choice for retirement!
You have the questions, now get the answers!
Taking the time to tour a senior living community—multiple times if it has made your short list—is a wonderful way to see if it feels right for you, or for a loved one. Be ready with the right questions.
Live the good life, and retire without worry at St. Mark Village. Download our free guide, Choosing the Right Senior Living Community or contact us. We’d love to hear from you!
