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5 Tips for Touring Senior Living Communities

July 31, 2018

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How to Find the Right Senior Living Community

After you’ve made the decision it’s time to downsize your home and make the move to a senior living community, it’s time to start researching and touring communities near you. Because this is a major life decision, you want to be certain you’re choosing the community that will best fit your lifestyle and needs. Maybe you’re still highly active and independent, and you’re looking for a place where you can make new friends and participate in a wide variety of activities. Or, maybe a recent decline in your health or mobility means you need a community where you’ll receive a bit of daily assistance.

No matter the type of senior living community you need, there are a few things to look for as you research. And, taking a tour of the community is a vital step in this process.

Touring Senior Living Communities: 5 Tips to Ensure the Right Fit

Touring senior living communities allows you to get a true feel for what life would be like if you choose to reside there. When you’re on your tour, here are five tips to keep in mind so you can be sure you’re making the best decision for your future:

Tip #1: Note the different levels of care available.

Even if you’re healthy and independent right now, it’s nice to know that your new community offers various levels of care to ensure any future health needs will be met. Many senior living communities today offer a variety of living options, as well as supportive services like assisted living care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services, and memory support, all on one convenient campus.

Tip #2: Meet the current residents.

The current residents will become your new friends and neighbors. As staying socially active is key to your overall wellness, it’s important to know that you’ll be able to find common ground with others living in the community. While you’re on your tour, take some time to meet the residents and engage in some friendly conversation. Ask what they like best about the community, what activities are their favorites, and how they enjoy living on campus.

Tips #3: Participate in an event, activity or meal service.

If you can schedule your tour to coincide with one of the community’s regularly-scheduled events and activities that are open to the public, you’ll get a good feel for how enjoyable these types of activities are for the residents. Additionally, try to enjoy a meal with the residents so you can taste the food, meet the dining staff, and learn if the kitchen takes note of special dietary restrictions or food allergies.

Tip #4: View the variety of floor plans available.

Of course, one of the most important aspects of touring senior living communities is to find out what the living spaces look like. This way, you’ll get a good idea of how many of your belongings can make the move with you, as well as learn how you’ll be able to personalize the space with your finishing touches.

Tip #5: Carefully review the grounds and common areas.

The apartments or homes available are one thing, but the common areas the residents share and the campus itself should also be clean, well-maintained, comfortable and inviting. There should be plenty of space available for outdoor activities, and find out what types of amenities are offered onsite. For instance, many communities have hair salons, fitness centers, restaurant-style dining rooms, and even performance halls and movie theaters.

A Vibrant Lifestyle Awaits at Franciscan Ministries’ Senior Living Communities

If you’re ready to simplify your life, Franciscan Ministries offers a variety of comfortable living options designed to provide a vibrant lifestyle. Make new friends, try a new hobby, and live life on your own terms in any of our senior living communities. For more information about living options at Franciscan Ministries, please contact us today.