Expert Contributor Written by Lindsey Poeth, CSA® Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline
Senior Living Tour Checklist
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Sizes of Apartments: What are the different sizes of residences available in the community? It may be important to compare the square footage from one community to the next.
As you start to narrow down assisted living options for yourself or loved ones, touring the communities firsthand is a critical step. Here is a list of commonly asked questions during a tour:
Appliances within the Apartment: Do they offer kitchenettes (typically all one needs in Assisted Living because meals are generally included in the pricing)? Are washers and dryers in the apartment or available in a common area? Is a TV included in the room?
hen it’s time to start the search for Assisted Living, it can feel daunting with the myriad of choices currently available. Sometimes, one can walk into a community and feel like it will be the perfect match but digging beyond the initial impression will ensure there are no surprises down the road.
Levels of Care: Do they offer Independent Living (no care required), Assisted Living, and/or Memory Care?
Understanding Senior Living Options Can Be Overwhelming and Confusing A Free, Personalized Senior Housing Placement Service For: • • • • • • • •
Retirement Communities Independent Living Assisted Living / Personal Care Memory Care Respite Services Residential Care Homes Hospice Care Skilled Nursing Homes
www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com 484-947-4266
Lindsey Poeth, CSA
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® 18 Marple Friends & Neighbors / Bringing People Together
Furnishings: What furniture comes with the apartment, if any?
Pricing Structure: What do the monthly charges cover? What is NOT included in the monthly charges? (e.g., cable, telephone land line, transportation to/from doctors’ appointments) Medical Services: What services are available on site? Do they have house doctors who make rounds to the community on a routine basis? What about specialists? Physical therapists? Amenities/Activities: What activities are offered and how frequently? To what extent are the residents involved in determining what is offered within the community? Food: Is there a fixed menu? Are meals offered at set times or do they offer “all day” dining? Price Increases: How much does the monthly rate increase each year? Is there a cap as to how much it can increase? Poor Fit: What types of issues or conditions would make a resident no longer a good fit for the community? (e.g., needing a catheter, becoming bedbound) Overall Aesthetic: What feeling do you get when you walk through the community? Are residents engaged, relaxed, happy? Does the overall decor and look feel comfortable? Cleanliness: Do the community and residents look clean and well cared for? Are there lingering odors or does it feel fresh? Seeking out the help of a Certified Senior Advisor® (CSA) can make the process feel much less overwhelming because they are experts in the local options available and well-versed in the differences between the communities, including pricing, amenities, and care provided to the residents. They are available to help walk you through the touring process and beyond — making the transition to an assisted living community as seamless as possible. M
