Senior living communities today are miles away from the sterile retirement homes of the past or the ones often found in pop culture. Instead, you’ll find vibrant accommodations with a variety of amenities. There are a lot of options, and while tours are certainly informative, they may not paint the full picture of what’s on offer. We’ve compiled some questions in some key categories that you may want to ask to ensure you find the right fit.

Living Spaces
The heart of your hunt for a senior living community is the accommodations. After all, this is going to be the place you call home. Consider what kind of space will meet your needs and what will make your happiest.

  • What floor plans are offered?
  • Are residences furnished or unfurnished?
  • What accessibility features are there?
  • How much personalization and decorating is allowed in apartments?
  • How is the move-in process organized?
  • Is internet access provided?
  • Is technological assistance available?
  • Does the community allow pets?
  • Is housekeeping included?

Dining
Make sure the community suits your tastes—literally. It may be beneficial to talk to current residents about their experience to get a better understanding of the community’s dining program.

  • What are the dining options?
  • How many meals are provided per day?
  • Is food prepared daily?
  • Is there a set time for meals, or are they offered upon request?
  • How often does the menu change?
  • Outside of regular meals, are snacks available for residents?
  • Is it possible to make special requests?
  • Are residents permitted to cook in their apartments?

Entertainment & Activities
Learn how a facility helps residents stay physically, mentally and socially active and involved within the community. You also can check if certain hobbies and interests are accommodated.

  • What types of activities are available to residents?
  • Is there a schedule of events and activities posted either physically or online?
  • Are there opportunities outside of the community, such as scheduled outings or volunteer activities?
  • What kind of live entertainment is offered and how often?
  • What outdoor spaces does the community have?
  • Can residents organize their own clubs or activities? Can they suggest new ones they’d like to see?

Necessities
Senior living communities take a lot of daily chores and errands off residents’ plates, but there are still some that may need to be addressed. Find out what basic amenities are offered onsite to ensure you can get done what you need to.

  • Is transportation provided for errands like grocery shopping?
  • Does the community have an on-site barber shop or beauty salon?
  • Is there an on-site bank?
  • Are religious services provided on site or available nearby?
  • Is there an on-site general store for everyday necessities?
  • Are team members on site 24/7?

Health Wellness
Even when looking at independent living, it’s important to ask how a community coordinates onsite and offsite medical care. Your needs can change quickly, so also consider what you may require in the future.

  • Is there an in-house physician, or any nurses on staff?
  • Is there a staff member who can help coordinate home health care visits?
  • Does the community provide transportation to medical appointments?
  • If needed, is there access to hospice or physical therapy services?
  • Is there an on-site gym, pool or other ways to stay physically active?
  • How often are organized fitness classes available? Are personal trainers an option?
  • If the level of care needed changes, does the community offer options like assisted living or skilled nursing?

Guests
Will your family be visiting often? Learn what’s available to guests and if there are any important restrictions.

  • Can you have overnight guests?
  • Are there specific visiting hours for guests?
  • How are guest meals handled in communal dining spaces?
  • Is there space available to host a private gathering or party?