How To Evaluate Senior Living Communities

Evaluating senior living communities can seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into simple steps can make the process easier. Here are some practical tips on how to evaluate senior living communities, along with sources for checklists to help guide you.

1. Identify Your Needs: Understand what kind of care and amenities are important. Are you looking for independent living, assisted living, or a memory care facility? Make a list of must-haves like medical services, social activities, dining options, and transportation.

2. Research Online: Use websites that review senior living communities. Look for ratings, reviews, and any red flags. See our list of nonprofit and government agency websites that offer unbiased reviews and ratings.

3. Visit the Community: Schedule tours of the communities you’re interested in. Pay attention to the cleanliness, friendliness of the staff, and the overall atmosphere. Talk to current residents and their families about their experiences.

4. Check the Staff: Observe the staff’s interactions with residents. Are they attentive, friendly, and professional?

5. Evaluate the Services: Make sure the community offers the services you need now and might need in the future. Ask about health care services, meal plans, fitness programs, and social activities.

6. Review the Costs: Understand the pricing structure. Are there additional fees for certain services? Make sure you know what is included in the monthly fee and what is extra.

7. Ask for a Contract: Request a copy of the contract and review it carefully. Look for information about the terms of residency, costs, and services provided. Consider having a lawyer review it if there are any concerns.

8. Consider Location: Think about the community’s proximity to family, friends, and medical facilities.

9. Safety and Security: Ensure the community has safety measures in place, such as emergency call systems, fire safety plans, and secure entrances.

10. Use Checklists: There are several comprehensive checklists available that can help you remember what to look for and questions to ask during your visits. Some useful resources include:

    • AARP’s Checklist: AARP Assisted Living Checklist
    • National Institute on Aging (NIA) Checklist: NIA Guide to Choosing a Nursing Home or Assisted Living Facility

• Medicare.gov Questions to Ask When Visiting a Nursing Home and  Nursing Home Checklist

By following these steps and using the available checklists, you can make a well-informed decision about which senior living community is the best fit for you or your loved one.