Choosing a senior living community for you or your loved one is a major decision that requires extensive research and planning.
One of the first steps in the process of selecting a senior living community is to see it in person. Touring one or multiple senior living communities provides an opportunity for families to compare options and determine which one offers the best care, lifestyle and value.
To ensure you and your loved one make the most informed choice, here are ten essential questions to ask when visiting a senior living community.
1. What care options are offered?
Senior living communities provide varying levels of care, from independent living to assisted living and memory care. When touring a community, be sure to ask about the specific services available and whether a resident can transition to higher levels of care if needed.
Sonida Senior Living offers a full spectrum of care, ensuring residents receive the support they need while maintaining independence as long as possible. With a focus on personalized care plans, Sonida Senior Living provides a smooth transition between levels of care so residents can age in place comfortably.
2. What supplemental services are available?
To support residents aging in place, many senior living communities offer additional services to help residents receive timely and comprehensive healthcare when they need it most.
Common supplemental services offered in senior living communities:
- On-site physical, occupational and speech therapy
- Visiting podiatrists, physicians, physician assistants, nurses, dentists, medication technicians, nutritionists, optometrists, etc.
- On-site medical care, like incontinence and oxygen
- Home health care
- On-site hospice
Remember to ask which of these supplemental services are available in the community you’re touring. Not every community will offer all of these services, especially independent living communities because these residents don’t require significant assistance.
3. How does the community keep residents safe?
Safety is a top priority for all senior living communities. When touring a community, be sure to ask about emergency response systems, security personnel and fall prevention strategies they have set up.
Sonida Senior Living communities are designed with resident safety in mind, featuring 24/7 staffing, monitored security systems, and accessible living spaces with grab bars to ensure peace of mind for residents and families alike.
Additionally, Sonida Senior Living communities are equipped to handle emergencies, like falls or medical issues, with routine training and disaster plans in place.
4. What training does the staff have?
The expertise and compassion of the senior living community’s staff significantly impacts resident well-being.
During the tour, inquire about caregiver training, staff-to-resident ratios and ongoing professional development that staff members receive.
Sonida Senior Living prioritizes hiring top talent and employing highly trained professionals dedicated to providing personalized care to our seniors. Staff members are trained not only to meet residents’ physical needs, but also to offer emotional and social support.
5. What amenities, activities and wellness opportunities are there?
Activities, whether it’s bingo, happy hour or movie nights, promote engagement and social connections among seniors.
Ask about the variety of programs offered at the senior living community, such as arts and crafts, interest clubs and social outings in the local area. Also, don’t forget to ask about fitness classes, religious services and wellness programming that are offered.
Lastly, be sure to note what amenities are offered in the community. If you’re an active person, make sure the community has a gym or indoor pool. If you prefer relaxing, see if the community has a quiet library or peaceful outdoor courtyard.
Sonida Senior Living fosters an active lifestyle with a diverse calendar of events tailored to residents’ interests, helping them stay connected and entertained. From live music and educational classes to gardening clubs and group excursions, Sonida Senior Living ensures that residents have fulfilling and enriching experiences every day.
6. What are the apartments like?
Moving into a senior living community can be a significant transition, especially since that involves downsizing to an apartment.
After touring the community’s common areas, you will most likely tour a model apartment. Here are some specifics you can ask about the apartment:
- What floor plans are available?
- When were the apartments last updated?
- What utilities are included in the rent?
- Is there an in-unit washer and dryer?
- Are housekeeping or linen services included?
- Does the apartment have a full kitchen or a kitchenette?
- Is there a balcony or patio?
- Where are the emergency call buttons and pull cords?
- Is the apartment furnished?
- Where are the mailboxes located?
Because downsizing is a major adjustment, ask if there are any support services for new residents and their families. Sonida Senior Living offers move-in assistance and orientation programs to help residents feel comfortable and at home from day one.
7. How is the food?
Nutrition and meal enjoyment are essential for older adults living in senior living communities.
Request details about meal plans, dietary accommodations and dining options at the community. Most communities offer a main dining room, but some also have bistros, pubs or ice cream parlors.
Oftentimes, you can sample a meal during your tour to have a taste of what the food is like in the community. Better yet, ask some of the residents what they think about the food.
Sonida Senior Living communities provide restaurant-style dining with nutritious, chef-prepared meals that cater to various dietary needs and preferences. With rotating menus driven by resident preferences, fresh ingredients and seasonal dishes, residents enjoy a fine dining experience that supports their health while satisfying their taste buds.
8. Are pets allowed?
For many seniors, pets are beloved companions that provide comfort and joy every day.
Ask whether the senior living community is pet-friendly and if there are any restrictions on breed, size or species. Most communities allow small dogs and cats to live in the apartment.
Sonida Senior Living welcomes pets in many of its communities, ensuring residents can bring their furry friends along. Multiple communities also offer pet-friendly amenities, such as walking paths and dog parks.
9. Is transportation provided?
Maintaining independence and staying active often requires reliable transportation. Ask about the availability of transportation services for medical appointments, shopping and recreational outings.
Most Sonida Senior Living communities offer scheduled transportation, making it easy for residents to attend doctor visits, run errands or participate in off-site activities while eliminating the stress of driving.
10. How much does it cost to live here?
Perhaps the most important question to ask during your tour, it’s essential to understand how much everything is going to cost.
Ask for a breakdown of costs, as well as any additional charges for supplemental services, to make sure you can afford the monthly fees. Also, ask if the community has any move-in specials or pricing incentives.
Sonida Senior Living provides flexible financial options to ensure affordability without compromising on quality. With various pricing models and financial resources available, Sonida Senior Living helps families find a plan that best suits their needs.
Tour a Sonida Senior Living community near you
Choosing the right senior living community involves asking the right questions and evaluating responses carefully. To help in this endeavor, be sure to download and utilize our Touring a Community Checklist before your tour.
Sonida Senior Living stands out by providing high-quality care, vibrant lifestyles and a commitment to residents’ well-being. Experience firsthand why Sonida Senior Living is the best choice for you or your loved one by scheduling a tour today. Find a community near you.
