Why Schedule a Tour? Here are Four Reasons.
It’s very common to feel a little unsure about senior living. It can feel like a big commitment and a drastic change. Those concerns are exactly why it helps to go on your own fact-finding mission to discover what life is like there and how a community could even enhance your lifestyle. A tour is your opportunity to explore the possibilities that senior living can offer.
Just start with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
1. See the community in person.
Pictures are great, but you notice so much more about a community when you’re there. You’ll be able to walk the halls, see the residents in their day-to-day activities, and see how team members and residents interact. You’ll also notice practical aspects of the community, like whether the group exercise space is far enough away from the quiet library, how far a hike it is to the dining room — the important details that affect residents’ days.
On a tour, you can also notice the cleanliness of the community — is it up to your standards? Take in the decor — has the community been updated or refreshed recently? Is there plenty of natural light in the residences and common spaces? Living in a clean, well-designed community will greatly enhance your quality of life, and a tour is your chance to see it for yourself.
2. Get answers to your questions.
The sales staff and team members want you to have the information you need to make an informed decision, so don’t hesitate. You might start with the big questions. What is the fee structure? If there is an entrance fee, is it refundable? What will happen if you or your partner needs higher levels of care in the future? Find out if your payments will increase and whether the community can provide care on-site.
Make a list of questions important to you so you can seize the opportunity to ask for details in person. And if you think of more questions after you’ve left, you can always follow up with your tour guide.
3. Try a bite.
Arrange for one of your visits to involve a meal. You’ll likely eat many of your meals at the community if you move in, so find out whether you like the food. This will also give you a chance to experience the level of service provided and see how the residents enjoy the dining experience. Inquire about whether any of the dining rooms have a dress code, and be sure to ask about the various dining venues available to choose from at the community.
4. Find out how it all fits together.
Ultimately, a visit will help you decide whether you feel at home in the community. Discover whether there are residents who share your interests and/or might introduce you to new ideas or hobbies. Would you feel comfortable in the shared spaces as well as the residences? Is the location of the campus convenient for your life outside the community? Several lifestyle pieces need to come together to create the right fit for you, so visit as many times as you need.
