If you or a loved one has decided that senior living is right for you, there are many options to choose from. You can learn a great deal about nearby senior communities by doing research online, and if you call them, they will be happy to answer your questions and send you a glossy brochure.
Though this will help you narrow down your choices, nothing compares with seeing for yourself. That’s why it’s important to tour the senior living communities where you think you might want to live.
When you go, take a friend or relative with you for a second opinion. And only tour one or two senior living communities on the same day, or you may find yourself confused about which was which afterward.
Here’s what you can expect when you go on a tour of a senior living community.
They’ll Roll out the Red Carpet
Many communities go out of their way to make prospective residents feel welcome, from a personalized sign out front to a reserved parking space.
Your Visit May Start in the Business Office
A community representative will ask questions to find out more about you and what kind of care you are looking for. They will provide an overview of what the community offers. Now is a good time to ask any questions you may have, including questions about the costs associated with living there.
Expect to spend at least an hour on the tour. As you walk around, take notice of the following:
- Are the hallways well lit and easy to navigate?
- Are the common areas neat and clean?
- Is there an odor? Even if it is the smell of disinfectant, you probably don’t want to smell it all the time.
- Are the bathrooms wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs? Are there grab bars for support?
- What type of security is there in the community?
They Will Take You Inside the Apartments
You can see for yourself how big they are, how they are set up, and imagine how they’d look decorated with your belongings.
They Will Show You Living Arrangements for All Levels of Care
You may not be looking for assisted living or dementia care right now, but they will make sure you see everything the community has to offer.
They Will Take You Outside
Look for well-tended grounds, easy-to-walk paths, and outdoor living spaces where residents can socialize.
They Will Introduce You to Staff Members and Residents
The people you meet should be friendly and engaging, both to you and to each other.
They Will Show You the Activities Rooms and Provide a Sample Calendar
During your tour, find out whether residents are taking part in activities and/or socializing with one another.
They Will Show You the Dining Room
Note how residents interact during meals. Are they talking and laughing with each other or eating quietly?
They May Invite You to Stay or Come Back for Lunch
Be sure to have at least one meal there to see what kind of food they serve and determine whether you like it.
After you leave, you and your loved one can talk about the many pros (and hopefully few cons) about the community. Don’t hesitate to call if you have any more questions, or if you want to come back for another look.
This community may be where you live for the rest of your life. If you don’t think you’d feel at home there for whatever reason, then you need to keep looking. You’ll know the right place when you find it.
If you are looking for senior living in North Georgia, Arbor Terrace Hamilton Mill might be the place you’ll want to call home. You’ll never know unless you visit. Call them at 770- 999-0421 and representatives will be happy to set up a day and time for your tour.
