Independent senior living communities — sometimes called 55+ communities — provide a place where older adults can enjoy their own space and autonomy in a community rich with amenities, friendships, and peace of mind.
When you’re considering an independent living community, taking a tour is a great way to familiarize yourself with the community and learn more. On your next tour, ask these senior living questions to determine whether you’ve found the right fit.
1. What housing options are available?
First, you’ll want to learn the types of housing available. Does the community offer one-bedroom apartments? Two-bedroom apartments? Townhomes? Then, check out the available floor plans. Is there one that appeals to you, with a layout and design that suits your lifestyle and needs? Any move involves stepping outside your comfort zone, but it’s important to ask yourself if you would be comfortable in this environment. Can you see yourself living here?
2. What responsibilities are taken care of?
One of the advantages of living in a 55+ community is maintenance-free living. Find out if all maintenance tasks are performed by team members or whether you’ll be responsible for any. For example, does the community cover home maintenance? Housekeeping? Lawn care? Snow removal? Is transportation available? If so, ask about frequency, schedules, and whether additional costs are attached.
3. What are the community’s dining options?
Delicious and nutritious meals are one of life’s everyday joys, so be sure to learn about a community’s culinary options before making a commitment. Does the community offer multiple on-site dining options? What do residents say about the quality and variety of meal options? Can the culinary team accommodate specific nutritional and dietary needs or preferences? Are there flexible meal plans available so you can cook as much or as little as you prefer?
4. What amenities are on-site?
Amenities can vary considerably from one independent living community to the next. Does the community offer a fitness center? A pool? A theater? Gathering spaces? If other amenities matter to you, be sure to inquire about those as well. You’ll also want to pay attention to the overall feel and walkability of the campus.
5. How do residents stay connected in the community?
One reason to choose a senior living community is to enjoy more opportunities for socialization. This can help you avoid isolation and loneliness, which can negatively impact your mental and physical health.
With that in mind, you’ll want to learn how residents interact in the independent living community you’re considering. How close-knit is the community? How does the community welcome new residents? What does the onboarding or welcoming process look like? Keep in mind that not everyone in an independent living community needs to be a social butterfly. You can find the right balance of social and private time according to your preferences.
6. What types of programming are available?
The best independent living communities offer many programming options to make each day engaging and promote well-being. If your tour guide mentions special events or one-off experiences, ask what types of programming are consistently available for enrichment each day, week, or month. For example, you can ask whether the community offers exercise classes, book clubs, movie nights, Bible studies, trips to nearby attractions, or whatever matters most to you. You may also want to learn about experiences available in the surrounding city or town.
7. How much should you prepare to spend?
Cost is a common concern when considering housing options. Ensure you understand the pricing structure and the services and amenities included in that cost. In many cases, you’ll pay a one-time entrance fee and an ongoing monthly fee. Remember that your cost is offset by all the expenses you’ll no longer need to worry about, such as home maintenance and grocery bills.
Learn more about the cost of senior living with our interactive Cost Calculator.
8. What levels of living are supported on-site?
Even if a community feels like an ideal fit right now, look ahead to the future. Is this a place where you could transition to assisted living or another level of living if needed? Can you access a full continuum of services and care, including independent living, assisted living, memory support, short-term rehabilitation, and long-term care?
Find the right independent living community to call home.
Never settle for an independent living community you can’t picture yourself loving — the ideal place for you is out there! By asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision and choose a community you can’t wait to call home. Use our checklist to thoroughly evaluate senior living communities and find your perfect fit!
