The fictional adventurer Indiana Jones may rely on a weathered map and his trusty fedora to find the treasure he is seeking, but a senior living search calls for different tools—in this case, the right questions—that can give you the information you need to choose the community that is a good fit for you. Looking for a senior living community doesn’t have to be a daunting endeavor. In fact, it can be a fun and satisfying adventure—one that brings you the rewards you’ll appreciate for years to come!
So grab your pencil and paper and make a list of what matters most to you in a new, carefree lifestyle.
Things to keep in mind before starting your senior living search
Spend a few minutes considering what kind of lifestyle draws your attention. Better yet, try picturing yourself in your new senior living community apartment and imagine how you would like your life to be. For example, consider:
Pace of life.
You might be drawn to a very active atmosphere with lots of opportunities for engagement and connection. Or, you might feel more at home in a more relaxed setting. While you’ll most likely have the opportunity to be as social, or as private as you choose, it’s helpful to consider the atmosphere that best matches your personality in your senior living search.
Atmosphere.
Would a community that emphasizes life enrichment and a holistic approach to body, mind, and spirit wellness appeal to you? If being able to attend regular worship services in an on-site chapel is important to you, add that to your senior living search list.
Budget.
Do you have an idea of what will work for you? Consulting with a financial advisor or attorney will help you decide. One option is choosing a Life Care Community. Residents moving into independent living in a Life Care community pay an admission fee, which guarantees you will receive the care you need for as long as you need it, even if your financial situation should change.
Key questions for your senior living search
Your senior living search might include a few in-person visits, phone calls, and virtual chats. Do whatever you need to so that you get a good feel for life in the community. Take your time, and compare more than one. Here are some suggested questions:
- What is the community’s reputation? Ask if the community has been in the news for any reason. Look at their reviews. Find out what the occupancy rate is and if there is often a waiting list.
- What levels of care are available? Even if you are currently living independently, it’s a good idea to know what levels of care are available should your needs change. A community with independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation offers you the peace of mind that all levels of care are there for you if needed.
- What type of training does the staff receive? Ask about ratings and inspection results as well, and if the staff goes through retraining at regular intervals. Also inquire about staff turnover and longevity.
- What type of residences are available? Be sure to get a copy of all available floor plans and tour a model apartment as part of your senior living search. Could you feel at home there?
- What amenities are available? Activities? Remember, the goal of your senior living search is to find a community where you can truly have the time of your life! So don’t be shy to ask just how many opportunities there are to enjoy every day fully.
- How much do current residents participate? When looking over the activities calendar, ask how fully residents participate. Is there a resident council? Do residents have a say in what is on the calendar?
- What types of safety features are in place? Ask about CDC guidelines as well as safety features in the residences, dining areas and the community itself.
- What are the dining options? This may be one of the most important questions in your senior living search. Check out a sample menu and tour the dining room. Eat a few meals. Observe the wait staff and get a feel for how comfortable the dining atmosphere is.
- What types of fitness programs are there? Find out if there is individual instruction available, and what equipment you will have to choose from.
- How does this community support wellness? Ask about specific programs, whether there is a wellness clinic, and for details on the overall approach to lifelong wellness.
For four decades, we have provided exceptional living options for adults 62 and older. As a not-for-profit Life Care Community, St. Mark Village is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle. We invite you to learn more: contact us or call 727-464-1750 today to connect with our friendly and knowledgeable counselors and learn why so many are proud to call St. Mark Village home.
