When you’re beginning to tour senior living communities, you might feel overwhelmed by the decision. Knowing which questions to ask and what to look for during your visit can help reduce stress and give you confidence in evaluating your options.
How to prepare for your senior living tour
Before you visit, research the community online and read reviews. You will usually find floor plans, information about amenities, and detailed descriptions of the levels of care. Take notes on what you see and ask follow-up questions during your tour about any topics you want to clarify.
You can also talk to people who have firsthand experience with the community. For instance, you might speak with a current resident, employee, or volunteer. Consult trusted advisors, friends, and professionals to get different perspectives.
Questions to ask and what to look for during your senior living community visit
Consider asking the following questions to get a feel for the community’s culture and overall offerings:
Staffing and morale
- What is the resident-to-staff ratio?
- What levels of care are offered?
- What training and qualifications do team members have?
- Do the team members seem friendly to each other, residents, and visitors?
- How well has the staff communicated with you so far?
- Does the staff experience a lot of turnover?
- Do staff members seem happy to be working there?
Lifestyle and culture
- What types of activities, special events, classes, and outings are offered?
- What amenities are available to residents?
- What is the dining program like?
- Is transportation offered?
- Are pets allowed?
- What does a typical day look like?
- How is socialization encouraged?
- Are the residents friendly to each other and to guests?
- Do you observe residents being active throughout the campus?
- Do residents seem happy to be living there?
Determine your needs and wants in senior living >>
Building and grounds
- What safety and security features are in place?
- Does the campus feel secure?
- What apartment types are offered?
- Are the grounds well-kept and landscaped?
- Are there resident gardens on the grounds?
- Is the occupancy high or low?
- Can residents personalize their apartments?
- Are the buildings clean inside?
- Is the community near medical facilities, shopping, restaurants, or attractions?
Where do I begin with senior living? >>
Costs and waiting lists
- What is the monthly fee, and what is included?
- What services are add-ons?
- What are the payment options?
- Is there a waiting list?
Choosing the right community for you or your loved one can be challenging. Make sure to schedule multiple visits at different times of the day to get a better sense of the community’s culture. Try visiting during mealtimes to experience the food and menus firsthand. Additionally, speaking to residents and staff can provide valuable insights when making your decision.
Feel at Home at Frontida Assisted Living
Frontida Assisted Living values transparency and trust in each of our Wisconsin communities, and our team is ready to answer your questions, offer support, and provide resources to help you make a confident and informed decision for your future care.
Our compassionate team strives to create a sense of community and purpose for each resident through personalized programming, life-enriching activities, and special events.
Learn how we care for our residents:
- Private suites, bedrooms, and companion rooms
- Fully accessible bathrooms
- Spacious living rooms and engaging indoor recreation areas
- Cozy fireplaces and open-plan seating in living spaces
- Beautifully maintained outdoor areas
- Delicious, home-cooked meals and snacks
- 24-hour personal care and supervision
- Comfortable spa and salon (in specific locations)
- Dedicated memory care communities
- Specialized behavioral health care communities
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Individualized care plans
- Life Enrichment Coordinators to plan and schedule meaningful activities for all residents
- Nursing staff to oversee the health and wellness of each resident
We value honesty, trust, and open communication to build relationships with our residents and their loved ones. Together, we form a partnership to ensure your loved one lives a fulfilling life, feeling a sense of belonging and purpose.
When you’re ready, contact any of our 11 Frontida assisted living and memory care communities to gather more information, or to set up a personalized tour. We’re here for you whenever you need us.
We understand that transitioning into assisted care can be an emotional, stressful and often confusing journey. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you and your family navigate the complex world of care. Download our free “Family Decision Toolkit” to learn more.
