Key Questions to Ask When Touring an Assisted Living Community

As you consider a transition to an assisted living community, your mind is likely flooded with questions.

  • Where will my loved one live?
  • Will they find friends and community here?
  • Who can I talk to to see if they are enjoying their day?

The professional caregivers at assisted living and memory care communities are here to help you answer all your questions – and there’s no better time to ask than when you are on tour. 

Here at Bailey Pointe Assisted Living at Miracle Hills, we’ve put together our top list of questions to ask when touring an assisted living community – so you’ll be ready when the time comes!

“Can You Tell Me About The History Of Your Community?”

Assisted living communities are built around stories, and you want to know that your chosen community has a strong foundation. Don’t be afraid to ask about the history of the community, who owns and manages it, and some of the highlights of the community.

You may come to find that the community has won awards for personalized care, or that they have unique relationships with other parts of your community that will enhance the experience of residents. 

A few other questions you might want to ask include:

  • What can you tell me about the team that manages the community?
  • Have you won any rewards or recognitions for your work with residents?
  • How long has this community been in operation, and what are the plans for the future?
  • Can you show me any reviews or testimonials from other residents?

“Can You Show Me The Rooms and Floor Plans For Each?

An assisted living community is designed to create accessible and comfortable living spaces for residents.

As you tour, make sure to ask to see several different types of rooms and what makes each room unique. This will help to give you an idea of what to expect in each and how you may want to consider setting up a living space for you or a loved one. 

You’ll also want to ask about accessibility to other services, such as dining, laundry, and bathing areas. Ask to see how residents navigate the areas and what precautions are taken both in security and safety, as you want the peace of mind to know that you or a loved one is comfortable both day and night.

Some other questions along this vein could include:

  • What are the different floor plans, and what are the differences between each in both price and amenities?
  • How close are rooms to one another, and how close are they to necessary amenities such as laundry, bathroom, and staff areas? 
  • What safety elements are in place to protect against falls or other injuries, and how is help received?

“What Can You Tell Me About Dining & Nutrition?”

Nutrition is an essential part of senior living, and your chosen assisted living community should invest in only the best dining options. Naturally, you’ll want to ask a few questions about what to expect from food and dining, and even see if you can see a menu or try out a meal.

Don’t be afraid to get particular here, especially if you or your loved one has dietary restrictions or needs help choosing what meals to have each day.

  • What meals are included each day for residents? 
  • Is there a kitchen in rooms for meal preparation, or do residents mostly eat in a common dining area?
  • Are there gluten-free or vegan options available?
  • How does staff ensure that residents are eating all of their meals (particularly for memory care residents?)
  • Is outside food and drink allowed within the community?

“How Do Residents Stay Engaged Socially?”

One of the hallmarks of a quality assisted living community is the social environment they create. Residents should feel supported in living out their days in a way that fits both their personality and social needs, while being encouraged to get involved at their own pace.

Many communities will host weekly events that aim to bring the residents together – from game nights to entertainment and even hobby-specific clubs and groups. Some may travel off-site for visits to places in town to shop and dine out. 

Ask plenty of questions around social events and recreational activities, as you’ll want to make sure you or a loved one knows exactly what’s available and how to get plugged in easily.

  • Can you show me an example of a month’s calendar here at the community?
  • What are the ways that residents can get involved? How do they sign up for events?
  • What groups or hobby gatherings are available throughout the week?
  • What other ways can residents stay engaged socially with others?
  • Can friends and family come to enjoy the weekly events alongside their loved one?

“What Healthcare Is Available In The Community?”

As we age, our needs increase. And sometimes those in senior living communities require a bit of extra help when it comes to staying well and active. You’ll want to ask plenty of questions regarding the on-site healthcare available, both for daily routines and wellness as well as emergency care.

  • What are the on-site medical care options available? How can residents request aid?
  • In case of emergency, how do you handle healthcare and transportation to emergency services?
  • How do you notify family members or caregivers of health and wellness updates?
  • How do you coordinate with a resident’s personal doctors and other healthcare professionals?
  • What preventative health measures do you put in place throughout the year?

“How Do You Balance Independence & Family Involvement?”

Though you or a loved one lives in a senior living community, you’ll likely want to have time to see friends and family. You’ll want to get all the details on visitation policy and how individuals can visit those who are in assisted living communities – and how the staff manages communication.

  • What is the balance here between resident autonomy and assistance?
  • Do you offer customizable care plans with input from family and caregivers?
  • What do you do to promote self-reliance and dignity among your residents?
  • How can family stay in touch to feel at ease about their loved one’s living situation?

The goal of assisted living isn’t only to provide a quality environment for older adults, but to create a comfortable reality for those who may feel burdened by their loved one’s health and wellbeing. A quality assisted living community acts as a partner who can bridge the gap and ensure everyone is on the same page year-round.

Want to Learn More? Join Us for a Tour at Bailey Pointe Assisted Living at Miracle Hills

Whether you’re ready to make a move to assisted living or just getting started in the process, now is the time to schedule a tour and see for yourself how effective quality senior living can be. 

Here at Bailey Pointe Assisted Living at Miracle Hills, our team of professionals strive to create a welcoming and compassionate environment for residents, and we’d love to show you how. 

Schedule a tour today and bring all of your questions! Our team is ready to help and ensure you and your loved one are ready for the next stage of a happy, thriving life at Bailey Pointe.

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