Dorothy certainly was right when she said there’s no place like home, and no matter what age or stage of life, home provides comfort, safety, and tranquility. When it comes to choosing the right senior living community, it’s helpful to think about what is most important to you and make a list to guide you along the way. The 10 tips below are key to keep in mind when touring a personal care community in Exton, PA and can help you narrow down your options and find the perfect place to call home.
1. Do Some Research
The internet is a great place to start your tour because you can easily access information about each personal care community in Exton, PA. Take some time to look around online, as each community will have its own unique features and personalized care choices. Spend a good amount of time on their websites, looking at the pictures and reading about what the community offers. You can take as much time as you need and compare your options to choose which communities you want to tour in person.
2. Notice How the Staff Makes You Feel
Being surrounded by caring and kind people can help you feel like you are part of a bigger community. Does the staff make you feel welcome and comfortable? How do they engage with residents during your tour? Pay attention to all of the staff while you are there, not only the one or two leading your tour.
3. Meet the Residents
Talking to the current residents is a great way to learn about what it’s like to live in a certain community. Perhaps you can ask to meet some of the residents or visit during an activity to get a better feel of the social atmosphere. Also, take time to notice how the residents are interacting with each other and if they are out and about visiting with each other.
4. Decide Which Amenities Are Important To You
Many assisted living communities offer plenty of common spaces, such as living rooms, libraries, and clubhouses. In addition, housekeeping, laundry services, wellness centers, gyms, hair salons, concierge services, and chapels may also be available in some communities. If there are any amenities that are on your must-have list, be sure to write them down and communicate these wishes.
5. Check Out the Activities
Look at the community’s event calendar and see if there are events that sound appealing to you. Getting involved will help you connect with others and feel more at home. If there are a variety of events for small and large groups and opportunities for scheduled outings, this is a good sign that the community offers a range of activities for you to enjoy. If you have a specific hobby, don’t hesitate to ask about it.
6. Try the Food
Food and nutrition may be especially important if you have dietary restrictions or need accommodations. Large senior living communities usually hire chefs and dietitians, and you can ask to sample the food or see the menus to see what types of meals are offered. Visiting during mealtime will also allow you to get a feel for what the overall dining experience will be like.
7. Look At All Possible Floor Plans
There may be more than just a few floor plans to choose from. It will be helpful to walk through as many floor plans as you can to see if you can imagine yourself living there. Each floor plan is designed to meet a unique need and can also provide comfort, luxury, and convenience. You can ask to walk through the floor plans more than once to give yourself time to take in the space.
8. Consider What Home Means To You
Think about the other parts of your life that make you feel at home, and consider what else should be on your list. Some communities allow you to bring your own belongings and furniture and to decorate on your own, and others do not. Also, spending time with friends and family may be a top priority, and you may want to look for communities that allow visitors to come whenever they like and to eat together. Some personal care communities offer spaces to book for special occasions and even allow overnight guests such as a visiting grandchild or loved one.
9. Ask Questions About On-site Medical Care and Rehabilitation
Depending on your need for daily help, it is essential that you find a community that can provide the right amount of care for you. Asking questions about medication management and nurses on staff will be important to determine if the community can provide the support you need. Also, keep in mind that the incidence of dementia increases after the age of 65, and a community with a separate memory care area may be beneficial in time.
Additionally, find out if the community offers group exercise programs or on-site therapeutic options like massage, physical or occupational therapy, or pool therapy.
10. Trust Your Gut
Most important of all, ask yourself if the community feels like a place you can call home. It’s important to listen to what your gut is telling you while you’re on tour. Use all of your senses to notice if you are at ease and comfortable. If you notice you feel good, this is a great sign. If you notice something that makes you uncomfortable, don’t ignore it—these feelings are equally important. After your tour is over, talk with a trusted friend or family member, and take notes on what stood out to you. It will be helpful later on to have a record of your visit and help you narrow down your options when looking for a personal care community in Exton, PA.
Arbor Terrace Exton is a senior living community in Exton, PA, offering exceptional care in assisted living and memory care. Please call 484-265-9867 to schedule a tour today!
