Ask these questions to find the best fit for your loved one.
We recommend making a list of questions to ask during your visit. Below are some helpful categories to guide your experience and ensure you get all the information needed to make an informed decision.
Location:
Is the community located in a safe, welcoming neighborhood?
Is the community close to family and friends?
Are important places like churches/places of worship, doctor’s offices and other important locations nearby?
Are there shopping centers or other businesses conveniently located?
Is the neighborhood attractive and pleasant?
Is there parking available, including handicapped spaces? Is there covered parking?
Is parking provided or is there an extra charge for it?
Are the grounds attractive and well-maintained with gardens, trees and landscaping?
Is there a secure, enclosed area where residents can walk and socialize?
Interior of the Community:
How many residents live in the community?
Is the layout easy to follow and navigate?
Are the common areas in the community warm and welcoming for socializing and relaxing?
Do the common areas have enough room for residents to spend time with each other and family members?
Are the hallways well-lit and spacious, with handrails for safety and room for wheelchairs?
Activities:
Is there a calendar of activities, and if so, are there any activities that you or your loved one would like to participate in?
Are there social events, groups or clubs for residents?
Is transportation available for appointments and outings?
What types of fitness classes and wellness activities are offered?
Are there scheduled outings or extended trips for residents?
Does the community offer special services such as a beauty salon, wellness center or game room?
Are there worship services?
Dining:
Are the dining rooms attractive and appealing?
How many meals are provided per day? Is all-day dining available or at set times?
Are you able to sample the menu or visit for a meal?
Does the menu vary and offer appetizing, nutritious foods?
Are snacks provided, and how and when do residents get them?
Does the community cater to specific dietary needs or special requests?
Are residents able to bring food back to their apartments? Do the apartments have kitchens/kitchenettes?
Can visiting family members join residents in the dining areas?
Is a private room available for family celebrations or private dinners?
Residences:
Do most residents have a private residence, or do they share with another resident?
Is it possible to tour all the different types of residences that are available?
Does each residence have a private, handicapped-equipped bathroom, or is there one shared bathroom?
Are residents’ apartments personalized with photos, keepsakes or other belongings?
Is there enough closet and storage space?
Are apartments designed with nice views and access to outdoor space?
Do all residences have phone, Cable TV and Internet access?
What is included in each residence? Can residents bring their own furniture and decorate their residence?
Is the community smoke-free?
Is the community pet-friendly?
Safety:
Are there ongoing safety protocols for visitors and residents?
Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs get around with ease?
Are the floors slip-resistant?
Are rooms and bathrooms equipped with emergency call buttons?
Are there handrails where needed?
Are there sprinklers and smoke detectors?
Are there safety locks on the doors and windows?
Contracts & Finances:
Has the community provided you with a contract that details all fees and services? Is it easy to read and understand?
If there’s an entrance or community fee, how much is it and is a portion refundable?
How much is the monthly rent/service fee and what is included/not included?
What is the security deposit and is the deposit refundable?
We hope these questions will help you feel confident and informed as you tour different senior living communities — guiding your decisions as you search for a future home for you or your loved one. If you’re interested in touring The Crossings at Eastchase, our friendly staff would be happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.