What to Ask When Visiting an Assisted Living Community: A Guide for Families

Transitioning a loved one to a senior living community can be a complex process. It also can provide peace of mind knowing that your loved one can receive the medical, social and emotional support they need to thrive and enjoy life in a safe environment. Fortunately, Assisted Living offers the flexibility to allow your loved one to receive the supportive services they need and still maintain the independence they desire. For seniors who experience Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related issues, Memory Care services keep them safe while still allowing them some independence.

The important thing is to ensure you find a community that matches your loved one’s interests, lifestyle and needs. The best way to assess each senior living community you’re considering is to schedule a tour. This step gives you a first-hand look at everything the community has to offer. It’s important to prepare for this visit, even before you schedule a tour.

Preparing for Your Visit

Visiting a senior living community is a great way to determine if it’s the right fit for your loved one. Before you schedule a tour, there are a few things you should have in place.

First, identify your loved one’s specific care needs. For instance, do they have any ongoing medical needs, such as diabetes or incontinence? Does your loved one need assistance with daily activities, such as dressing or toileting? It’s best to make a list of these needs. Then, you can be sure the community can provide the services necessary to meet your loved one’s medical, mental, emotional and physical needs.

Secondly, determine what your loved one’s priorities are when it comes to senior living. For example, are they concerned about safety, wellness services, costs or quality of care? Are there certain amenities they want? Are there any barriers they need to overcome to reach a decision? For example, is your loved one concerned about losing their independence? Understanding these issues and barriers right from the start can help you find the right community.

Finally, write down a list of questions to ask about the community and its services during a tour. Keep reading to learn more.

Questions to Ask Your Sales Counselor

Below is a look at six essential questions that you should ask your sales counselor when touring an Assisted Living community.

1. What’s the environment like?

One of the first questions you want to ask is what’s the community’s environment like? Is it warm, friendly, welcoming, comfortable, vibrant, or active? It’s important to ask this question early in the tour so you can determine if you sense the same type of atmosphere the community portrays.

2. What types of activities and social opportunities are available?

You can find out if the community encourages socialization and engagement by asking about the specific types of activities they offer. They should provide you with a calendar that shows examples of the types of activities and events residents can participate in during the day. Also, ask to see the community’s game rooms and other applicable areas.

3. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

Be sure to ask your sales counselor what the staff-to-resident ratio is during the daytime, evening and overnight hours. You want to look for a community with a good staff-to-resident ratio. This ensures your loved one can receive personalized attention and appropriate care.

4. How is dining managed?

Dining options are often a major concern for seniors — and for good reason. Healthy eating is the key to overall wellness. Ask the community about the meal options available to seniors. Visit any dining areas and ask for a copy of the weekly menu. This can give you a good idea of what food options are available. If your loved one has any dietary requirements, ask about the community’s ability to accommodate these restrictions and how the process works.

5. How does the community handle emergencies and healthcare needs?

Knowing how the community handles its resident's healthcare needs is critical. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions pertaining to your loved one. For example, if you have concerns about memory issues, ask how the community addresses dementia-related illnesses and what services it offers. Also, be sure to ask how the community handles emergencies. For instance, ask how fast the response time is for emergencies and how it handles communication with family and loved ones.

6. What support is available for the transition?

Near the end of your tour, ask your sales counselor how the transition from home to senior living works. They should be able to explain all the steps involved in the process. For example, does the community conduct assessments to determine what level of care is right? Also, ask about any assistance the community provides to help residents adjust to their new home.

Schedule a Tour With Vinson Hall Retirement Community Today

Knowing what questions to ask and what you’re looking for in a senior living community with Assisted Living near McLean, VA can ensure you find one that’s the best fit for your loved one. Once you’ve taken the time to prepare for your visit, schedule a tour to see the community first-hand, so you can experience the environment and amenities. Be sure to take this list of questions and any additional questions you may have with you.

Schedule a tour at Vinson Hall Retirement Community today by calling our office at (705) 536-4344. Our sales counselors are happy to answer all your questions and guide you and your family through this difficult transition.