Senior Living Tour Checklist

by Expert Contributor Lindsey Poeth, CSA®, Owner of Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline

When 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.

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.

Levels of Care

Do they offer Independent Living (no care required), Assisted Living, and/or Memory Care?

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.

Furnishings

What furniture comes with the apartment, if any?

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?

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.

Expert Contributor Lindsey Poeth, CSA®, Owner of Oasis Senior Advisors Mainline

484-947-4266

www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Mainline

LPoeth@YourOasisAdvisor.com

Understanding Senior Living Options Can Be Overwhelming and Confusing

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