How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community

Once you’ve made the decision to move to a senior independent living, assisted living, or memory care community, you’ll want to find the one that’s right for you. First, take some time to think about what you’re looking for. What services do you need? What type of residence do you prefer? What amenities are important to you? Make a list of your top three “must haves” and keep them in mind when researching senior living communities.

It’s also important to take notes every time you visit any senior living community. There’s a lot to take in during these visits and you’ll want to remember everything you saw, thought, and heard. We’ve put together the following list of questions and a complete senior living guide to choosing the right senior living community to help make the process easier.

Senior Living Guide and Community Visit Checklist

What questions do you want to ask about Location/Proximity?

• Is it convenient to shopping, medical offices, and local amenities?
• Is it close enough for visits with friends and family?
• Are there civic and religious opportunities nearby?

What are the types of Services, Health Options, and Amenities?

• Does the community offer the services, amenities, and activities you want?
• What health care services does the community offer?
• What will happen if health care needs change?
• What does the monthly service fee include?
• Are you allowed to have pets?

Is It a Good Fit?

• What is your first impression when you arrived?
• Does the staff greet you warmly, listen attentively, and answer all your questions?
• Do you get a good feeling about the community?
• Are the apartment choices appealing?
• What are the three most appealing aspects of the community?
  

What Financial/Move-In Information are important to ask?

• Is the community’s financial structure explained to your satisfaction?
• Will you pay real estate taxes or need to carry homeowner’s insurance?
• Is there an entrance fee? What does it cover?
• Is all or any portion of the entrance fee refundable?
• Is any portion of the monthly fee tax-deductible?
• Who decides when a higher level of care is warranted?
• Is there a wait list? If so, how does it work?

We hope our senior living guide make the process easier for you and your family. If you have any questions please contact a Brightview Senior Living community near you and we would be happy to answer any questions.