Diverse group of smiling senior people dancing while enjoying activities in retirement home

Top Questions to Ask During Your Retirement Community Tour

Finding the right retirement community is about more than just practicalities; it’s about discovering a place where you can get the support you need to truly thrive. Many older adults find that they can get this support at a senior living community.

Yet sifting through the multitude of assisted and independent living options at such communities can feel overwhelming, especially as you begin touring potential matches. To simplify the search, we’ve compiled a list of the key questions to ask and considerations you’ll want to make when touring a retirement community.

Before the Search: Which Senior Living Option is Right for You?

While many seniors are familiar with assisted living options and the crucial support these communities provide, fewer are aware of the many benefits of choosing an independent senior living community.

Independent living communities can provide the ideal setting for active seniors who crave a lifestyle of convenience, luxury, and connection. Though these two senior living types can be entirely independent of one another, some retirement communities offer what’s referred to as a full continuum of care, which means residents have the benefits of independent living with the assurance of care should their needs ever change.

To learn more, explore our guide to choosing the right senior living community, or visit our comprehensive review of assisted and independent living options for seniors.

Why Senior Living Tours Are Essential

While you may spend many hours online browsing communities that offer the level of care and amenities you desire, nothing can replace experiencing that community for yourself. Touring a community can give you a greater sense of whether or not it’s the right fit and also provides the opportunity to get your questions answered.

If you’re unsure which questions to ask during your tour, use the questions below as a starting point.

What to Ask When Touring a Retirement Community

These essential questions to ask when on a retirement community tour will help you better understand the community and decide if it’s a good fit for you or your loved one.

Lifestyle

The way to get a true sense of the senior lifestyle at a community is to visit it yourself. When touring a community, take a note of the community’s cleanliness, resident engagement, fitness options, amenities, and other factors.

Senior Living Amenities & Residences:

Are the grounds and common areas well-maintained?
What types of floor plans are available, and do they offer features that cater to my desired lifestyle (e.g., private balconies, full kitchens, ample storage)?
What is the community’s pet policy?
What amenities are most important to you in a community, and does this community offer them? For resort-style senior living, you can look for amenities such as fitness centers, pools, spas or salons, gardens, and more.

Dining:

What type of cuisine is offered?
Can the dining venues accommodate special dietary requirements?
May I enjoy a meal in one of the dining venues during my tour?

Engagement & Convenience:

What options are available for entertainment, social events, and activities?
Does the community provide transportation services for outings, errands, and appointments?

Health Services

A luxury senior lifestyle encompasses more than just elegant surroundings and convenient services. It includes access to a full spectrum of health services tailored to holistically support your wellness. While you might have a general idea of the health and wellness services available, ask for details from your tour guide, too. They’ll have clear, updated information.

Continuum of Care

What levels of care are offered within the community (independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation)?
Can I stay in the same residence if my care needs change?
Can my spouse or partner and I stay in the same residence if we have different care needs?

Wellness Programs

What health and wellness programs are available to residents?
Are there fitness classes or exercise groups available?
What amenities do you have that cater to physical, mental, and emotional wellness?

Experiences of Current Residents

Current residents are often enthusiastic about sharing their experiences. Typically, a community liaison can connect you with a resident who is happy to answer your questions. Take the time to observe residents at community activities and how team members interact with them. Do residents seem engaged and active within the community?

Resident Perspectives

Can I speak with current residents about their experiences?
What do residents enjoy most and least about living in this community?
What made them choose this community?

Opportunities for Connection

This is a wonderful time to pursue new passions and forge meaningful connections. When touring a community, ask about opportunities to engage with fellow residents.

Social Engagement

What opportunities are there for residents to connect and socialize?
Are there clubs, groups, or activities based on shared interests?
How does the community foster a sense of belonging and community spirit?

Personal Growth:

Are there opportunities for lifelong learning, creative expression, or volunteerism?

General

Beyond the lifestyle and care options, practical matters play a crucial role in your decision. Don’t hesitate to ask direct questions about financial arrangements, safety and security features, and the community’s overall approach to resident well-being.

Financial Considerations:

What are the different contract options and fee structures?
What is included in the monthly fees?
How does the community address issues related to changing financial circumstances?

Experience Sophisticated Living at Abbey Delray

If you’re looking for a sophisticated, upscale rental senior living community, visit us at Abbey Delray. Our independent living residents also enjoy comfortable private apartment options, chef-prepared meals, premium services and amenities, and priority access to our suite of on-site health services, including assisted living and rehabilitation offerings.