Researching a senior living community can be overwhelming, whether you are looking for a senior grandparent or helping your parents make plans for the future.
Although this chapter is often seen as the end of living independently - including lots of big emotions about downsizing and leaving a home with years of memories - it’s also a new beginning. Not only do retirement communities offer safety and consistency, they also create opportunities to meet new best friends, spouses, and learn some brand new hobbies and skills. For adult children worried about their aging parents becoming increasingly isolated in suburban living settings, this can be a relief.
You can read the marketing materials and take the tours, but you also need to make sure you are asking the right questions.
“You really must go into the community yourself and take a tour in person,” says Kim Smith, sales and marketing manager of Rocky Ridge Retirement Community. She recommends bringing your parents or grandparents along every step of the way. “See for yourself how the residents and staff interact. Could you see yourself living in this lifestyle? Does it have what you need and is it affordable for you?”
Take some time to discuss in depth what’s important to your parents or grandparents. They should, ultimately, feel in control of the decision as much as possible. Then, make a list of questions that will help you ensure those needs are met together.
Questions might include:
Karen Wenzek, marketing manager at Prominence Way Retirement Community, says the most important question to ask is: What is a day like for the residents?
“This will allow you to learn about their ability to keep their independence,” she says. “What type of care is offered and what are the specific details?”
Kelsey Clarke, director of leasing at Trico LivingWell Retirement Community, adds there are some unexpected questions potential residents may not think to ask such as: What are the community’s values?
“We offer a vibrant community to active seniors that provides unlimited choice,” she says. “You choose when you would like to eat, what care you would like to receive, what suite feels like home, and if you feel up to participating in the daily activities and weekly excursions. Everyone gets a say in LivingWell.”
Smith, Wenzek, and Clarke agree that touring the facility is a must to make sure it checks off all your boxes.
“I would suggest touring at least twice,” says Clarke. “Enjoy a meal, stay for a program, and ask to connect with a few different residents about their experience in the community. If you feel excited about the next chapter and know it will provide you with opportunities to stay independent, then you have found the right place for you.”
Wenzek adds some communities offer trial stays where your aging parent or grandparent can stay for a night or a few days to see if they will feel comfortable. While they are there, encourage them to talk openly to the residents about their experience. What do they like most? What is the biggest challenge about living there? What would they change?
Clarke adds, “Don’t wait! We see folks touring our community that have waited too long. Most folks share that they wished they had moved sooner.”
The right community can greatly increase all aspects of quality of life, so leave no stone unturned and don’t hold back when it comes to asking questions.
“Moving to a retirement community is a very difficult decision for seniors to make,” says Wenzek. “They need to know that they will not be giving up their independence, but will be able to embrace retirement in a new way with lots of activities and meeting new people.” CCM
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