By the time a senior tours an assisted living facility, they have already made some determinations about their situation. For instance, they have likely decided that living alone is no longer an option or that they prefer to live in a community with others. They may have decided that they need some moderate help with ADLs – or that they no longer want to prepare their own meals and do housework. There are many reasons to move to an assisted living facility, but once the decision is made, there are many more factors to consider. Assisted living tours are an excellent way to get a feel for the community and understand if it is right for you.
Before scheduling any tours, you’ll need to determine if the community is within your budget. You may also wish to drive by and make sure that the residence is located in a desirable geographic location – is it easy for friends and family to visit? Once these basic qualifications are determined, you can set up tours. Have a set of questions ready. The answers represent the details that will make one assisted living facility preferable over another.
- What amenities are onsite? While many amenities are considered standard, you’ll want to ensure those important to you will be included in your lifestyle. For instance, if keeping up with fitness is non-negotiable, you will want to ensure a gym, a trainer, and classes are available. You can tour their library if you are an avid reader. If you love playing cards, check to see if there is a bridge club – or if you can start one!
- Do you like the food? Every assisted living facility provides a dining room for residents. Still, some also have various options, such as in-room dining, a cafeteria, or even a full-service restaurant. While touring a facility, take the opportunity to eat a meal, review the menu, and ask any questions about accommodating dietary preferences.
- Do they allow pets? This is an important question for several reasons. If you can care for a pet, they can make excellent companions. Animals can dispel loneliness, enhance mood and reduce stress. Of course, if you are afraid of animals – or have allergies – you will want to live someplace where animals are not roaming the halls.
- What offsite excursions are available? No matter how beautiful the facility is, everyone likes to get out and about occasionally. Does the community offer trips to the beach? Can you visit the botanical gardens or spend an evening at the theater? Will they assist with trips to the grocery store and take you to doctor’s appointments? Understanding how easily you can go offsite is as important as understanding what is onsite.
- Are any religious services available? Many people are accustomed to attending religious services in their respective faiths, which may be vital for them to continue. For many, having services onsite or accessing transportation to attend services is critical.
- Can you get your hair done? From barbers and hair stylists to nail technicians and massage therapists – a little luxury and pampering can sometimes be just what we need. Does the facility offer these services, or can they facilitate bringing these services in? A new home is even more special when you can continue with those little things you love.
- What type of social events are scheduled? You can look at an upcoming calendar to determine what kinds of activities are offered, from barbecues and ice cream mixers to trivia nights. While you don’t have to attend every event the residence plans, understanding the variety of options is essential.
The team at My Care Finders understands that finding the right assisted living facility can seem overwhelming. That is why we have gathered all the information you need on every residence in the
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