The Search
Finding the Best Retirement Communities
The best way to determine if a retirement community is a good fit is to visit many different communities. Here are a few important questions that we recommend you ask yourself and the community representative to determine if it’s the right place for you. Individuals will always have personal questions and concerns about what makes them comfortable and feel at home, so be specific about your lifestyle needs and expectations.
- How long has the community been in business? What’s its history?
- What’s the size and financial standing of the community and/or its parent organization?
- What is the philosophy and/or mission that drives the community and/or its parent company?
- What’s the location like? What other places are nearby (restaurants, shopping, entertainment, parks, etc.)? Are there many attractions that are easily accessible by foot or public transportation?
- Determine which services and amenities you want now and also what you anticipate needing in the future. Does the community provide these? Get specific explanations of care services offered.
- Is it necessary to have a car? Do residents find it easy to live without a car?
- Are the staff members friendly and engaging?
- Do residents have opportunities to offer feedback to management and are their requests respectfully listened to?
- How much independence is supported for residents? Are residents’ choices honored and respected?
- What are the pricing structure options? Do they offer month-to-month or is an entrance fee required? Is the entrance fee refundable?
- What are the contract terms? What amenities are included in the basic contract and which are an extra fee?
It’s also valuable to talk to current residents. Who would know better what it’s like to live in a place than the people living there now? A glowing recommendation from a current resident is worth its weight in gold during your search.
- Would they recommend the community to a friend?
- What is the food like?
- Do they feel respected and valued as part of an inclusive community?
- What do they like best and least about the community?
- What was it like becoming acclimated to the new surroundings and people after moving to the community?
- Why did they choose this place to live?
Stay the night in a guest room and have a meal in the dining room. If you’re looking specifically for Independent Living options, still ask to see the Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing areas. This will give you an even better understanding of how the community operates.
