Your Visit

Visiting senior living communities is a very important step in the process of finding the one that’s right for you or your loved one.

1. Make an appointment
   1. Many online articles will advise you to just drop in without an appointment when visiting a community. While visitors are always welcome, we would not suggest this approach for your first visit. Inevitably, you will come with lots of questions and want to make sure the marketing associate will be able to spend some time with you. The sales counselor might have just started an appointment or the marketing director may have a meeting in a few minutes. By making an appointment you ensure you will have the attention and time of the people who can help you without wasting your time.
2. Remember that it’s both acceptable and desirable to take notes
   1. This might be a no brainer to you, but people are sometimes intimidated to take notes. Don’t be.
3. Have a meal at the community
   1. If you’ve made your appointment around a meal time, chances are you will be invited stay and take advantage of a culinary experience. If not, ask to come back for lunch or dinner. Sitting in the dining room enjoying a meal with some residents is a great way to get to know the community.
4. Pay attention to associate interactions
   1. How do the associates treat residents and each other? Are they friendly? Are they professional? Spend some time talking with staff during your visit.
5. Talk to residents and family members
   1. The marketing associates should be able to put you in touch with other residents or family members you can talk to.
6. Is it clean and fresh?
   1. Ask about housekeeping. Does the community smell institutional? Look behind the curtains and furniture at the baseboards and windows.
7. Trust your instincts
   1. At some point in our lives most of us have selected or helped select a college, moved to a new neighborhood, or bought a car. Sometimes a place just feels right. Don’t discount those feelings!