The Search Is On – Questions To Ask When Looking For A Retirement Community

stay active during senior years

When it comes time to finding the right retirement community, many seniors and their family members have questions and are unsure of where to start with research. Be prepared to ask many questions when touring a community so that you can compare each community, amenities, and costs.

The search for the perfect retirement community is similar to finding the perfect first home. The experience can be overwhelming at times, and it is often a lengthy process. Before you start touring, have a list of your ‘must haves’ and ‘would like to haves.’ Then, you can be sure you find the perfect community that will meet all your needs.

 

Here are four questions to ask as you search for the right retirement community.

 

What fees are involved with living in the community and what do they cover?

When searching for the right community, it is important to know your budget to make sure you can afford the community of your dreams. Some require entrance fee deposits before move in, while others require monthly payments. Some include set amenities in their monthly fees, others charge extra for premium amenities.

When touring a community, find out what is covered by the fees you pay. Find out if they include items from the “must have” list or if they cost extra. Ask which activities on the events calendar they include in the monthly rate and which have additional fees.

What type of care do they offer?

Before touring any retirement community, become familiar with the terms independent living, assisted living and memory care living. These are the care options offered at most retirement communities. Once you familiarize yourself with these options and the care level provided for each, you will be able to determine which type of residency will work best for you or your loved before scheduling a tour.

Most retirement communities have onsite care for all residents; Registered nurses are on staff and onsite 24/7, and there is usually a 24- hour emergency call system in all living quarters. Most communities offer individual emergency response devices for each resident.

 

What is the quality of life like for residents?

An important step in your research is to talk with current residents. They will be your best resource.

While touring the community, observe how the entire staff interacts with each resident. As you see these interactions, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Are employees paying attention to the residents?
  • Are they making eye contact with them?
  • Do they have a friendly and positive attitude?
  • Do they talk to residents in a positive, respectful manner?

Ask how many people are involved in the care of each resident and get introduced to the team that would be in charge of you or your loved one. Following these steps will give you the confidence in the people taking care of you and your loved ones. You want to make sure you feel comfortable around them.

 

Ask if you can have a meal on the property?

Before the tour begins, ask if you can have a meal onsite. Having a meal onsite will help you know the quality of food they serve, and if the meals meet all residents’ dietary needs. Ask about meal program options and how many food choices residents have for each meal.

Ask to see a menu to see the meal varieties they offer.

 

Now that you know some questions to ask, it is time to start your journey to your new home and life.

If you are looking for a full continuum of care retirement community in the Greater Cincinnati area, be sure to schedule a tour of our facility.

More Information

The Christian Village at Mason is dedicated to helping our residents stay healthy and happy. Visit our website or on social media at Facebook or Twitter for continued updates.

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