Questions to Ask When Touring a Senior Living Community
Choosing the right senior living community is a big decision—one that should be guided by thoughtful questions, careful observation, and a clear understanding of your or your loved one’s needs. May is a great time to explore your options, especially as many communities open their doors for spring tours and events.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the essential questions to ask during a tour, provide helpful tips for making the most of your visit, and highlight what to look for to ensure the community aligns with your expectations.
Why Touring is Important
While online research is a great starting point, nothing replaces an in-person visit. Touring a senior living community gives you the chance to experience the atmosphere firsthand, interact with staff and residents, and evaluate whether the community feels like home.
When you go into a tour prepared with the right questions, you’ll walk away with greater confidence in your decision.
Before the Tour: Preparation is Key
Before you step foot into a community, consider the following:
- Define care needs – Are you or your loved one looking for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or a continuum of services?
- List must-haves and preferences – What are the most important features (e.g., private rooms, pet-friendly policies, transportation services)?
- Bring a notebook or use your phone to take notes and pictures during the tour for easy comparison later.
Top Questions to Ask on a Tour
Below are key questions to ask, grouped by category to make it easier to navigate your visit.
1. Living Spaces and Accommodations
- What floor plans are available?
- Are rooms private or shared?
- Can residents bring their own furniture or decorate their space?
- Are apartments equipped with emergency call systems?
- Is housekeeping included?
Tip: Ask to see more than one unit type prior to the tour, even if you think you know what you want.
2. Care and Medical Services
- What levels of care do you offer?
- How are care plans developed and updated?
- Is staff available 24/7?
- What happens if a resident’s health needs change?
- Do you have partnerships with local medical providers or on-site health services?
3. Dining and Nutrition
- Are meals included? How many per day?
- Can meals be tailored for dietary needs (e.g., low-sodium, diabetic-friendly)?
- Is there a sample menu you can view?
- Are there snacks or refreshments available throughout the day?
4. Activities and Social Life
- What does a typical weekly activities calendar look like?
- Are there events or outings scheduled regularly?
- Are residents encouraged to participate in activities?
- Is there a fitness room, garden, library, or other shared spaces?
Tip: If possible, observe an activity or meal while you’re touring to get a feel for resident engagement.
5. Staff and Community Atmosphere
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- What training do caregivers receive?
- How long has the current staff been with the community?
- How do you foster a sense of community among residents?
6. Safety and Security
- Are there security features like surveillance cameras or secured entrances?
- What emergency protocols are in place?
- Are fire drills or emergency trainings conducted regularly?
- How is medication management handled?
7. Cost and Financial Transparency
- What is included in the monthly fee?
- Are there additional costs for extra services?
- Is there a deposit or entrance fee?
- What is the policy on refunds or moving out?
- Do you accept long-term care insurance, Medicaid, or Veterans benefits?
Red Flags to Watch For
While touring, be on the lookout for these potential warning signs:
- Unclean or poorly maintained facilities
- Unhappy or disengaged residents
- Staff who seem rushed or unable to answer questions
- Limited social opportunities or activities
- Vague answers about pricing or care services
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t be afraid to keep looking.
After the Tour: Review and Reflect
Once your visit is over, take some time to step back and evaluate your experience. Choosing the right senior living community isn’t a decision to rush—reflection is key.
Here are some helpful steps to take:
- Review your notes and photos while the visit is still fresh in your mind.
- Have a conversation with your loved one about what stood out—both positively and negatively.
- Compare experiences from multiple communities before making a final decision.
- Check out the community’s social media pages. Platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube can give you a behind-the-scenes look at everyday life, activities, and the overall atmosphere. This can provide valuable context that supports (or challenges) your impressions from the tour.
- Follow up with the community if you have any lingering questions or need clarification.
Remember, you’re not just evaluating a building or a list of amenities—you’re looking for a place that feels like home, with a team you trust and a lifestyle that brings peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Touring a senior living community can be an emotional and exciting experience. With the right questions and preparation, you’ll be equipped to make a decision that supports long-term comfort, safety, and joy.
As you explore options this May, take the time to truly connect with each community. Ask the tough questions, observe closely, and keep your loved one’s best interests at heart.
Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to choosing a place to call home.
