Today’s older adults prioritize reaching their wellness goals and may begin by deciding which home environment can provide the best support. They often choose a senior living community designed to meet their high standards and expectations.

If you or a parent is considering options that could help in reaching the quality of lifestyle desired, it may be time to begin touring an assisted living community so your family can see for themselves.

However, you may be unsure of how to approach the process. We can help. Consider the following features and questions you might ask in order to make the best decision:

Touring an assisted living community: 6 things to look for.

Keep the following features in mind when you’re visiting a community. Make sure that the amenities and services they offer are a good fit.

1. Private residences that feel like home
   This will be your parent’s new home and you’ll want to make sure there are suitable options that your loved one will enjoy. Take note of floor plans, number of bedrooms, locations, natural light and the availability of patios or decks.
   
   
2. Compassionate and friendly staff
   You’ll want to pay attention to how the staff interacts with the other residents. Do they appear friendly and genuinely interested in those they provide care for? Do their actions suggest they enjoy coming to work each day?
   
   
3. Wide variety of activities and social events
   Ask to see a monthly calendar of events so you can get a better idea of whether your parent will find participating in community activities enjoyable. If possible, arrange for your loved one to join in an outing while touring the assisted living community.
   
   
4. Nutritious and delicious dining programs|
   Take a look at the menus to get a clear sense of the type of meals they offer. Better yet, arrange to share a meal with the other residents during the visit. Talk to the staff about how your loved one’s special dietary needs could be accommodated.
   
   
5. Fitness and wellness opportunities
   Does the community offer a fitness or wellness center so your parents can continue to stay in shape – both physically and cognitively? When touring an assisted living community, ask about any classes that are offered that could help your loved ones maintain their balance and strength.
   
   
6. Scheduled transportation
   Discuss the availability of provided transportation so your loved one can attend events or go shopping without needing to arrange for a ride. Ask if there are any off-site activities offered that also include transportation.

Touring an assisted living community: 6 questions to ask.

1. How can your parents make the residence feel like home?
   Make sure your loved ones can personalize their residence to make it their own home. Ask what is allowed regarding bringing in personal furniture or decorations, including any modifications to their entry door and front area.
   
   
2. What type of assistance is available?
   You’ll want to ask specific questions about the type of assistance that is offered and any levels of care that may not be available when touring an assisted living community. Also, you may want to ask if there are any behaviors or health conditions that would trigger needing another level of care.
   
   
3. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
   Your parents will appreciate no longer needing to rely on family or friends for help, allowing them to remain more independent. You’ll want to ask how many staff members there are per resident so you’ll know your loved ones will have help when needed.
   
   
4. How does the community welcome new residents?
   Moving can be a big transition and you’ll want to make sure your parents will have the support needed. When touring an assisted living community, ask how the staff will make your loved ones feel welcome and more quickly become part of the community.
   
   
5. How is a resident’s independence encouraged?
   One of the top reasons older adults often express concern about moving into senior living is that they will lose their independence. Ask how the community supports their residents to remain autonomous and make their own decisions.
   
   
6. How is the family supported?
   When a parent or loved one moves into a community, it is also a transition for the family. Ask what steps are taken to help the family become comfortable and remain actively involved in their loved one’s life and care.
   
   

Life at Eskaton Communities

The word Eskaton means “dawn of a new day.” In our communities, we see each day as an opportunity to enhance the lives of our residents. We’ve been serving the Sacramento region and Northern California for over 50 years.

The Eskaton Difference starts with our life-enriching programs and collaborative partnerships. With a national reputation for innovation, we focus on creating communities that provide our residents everything they need for purposeful living.

We invite you to visit one of our award-winning communities to discover some of the benefits we offer, such as:

• Private residences
• Delicious and nutritious meals
• Social opportunities to meet and make new friends
• Creative activities and therapies
• Fitness centers and exercise classes
• Housekeeping services
• Transportation services
• 24-hour staffing
• Pet-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi
• And much, much more!

If you’re considering whether senior living could be the best choice for you or a loved one, we’re here to answer any questions that you may have. We also invite you to download our complimentary information,  Just the Facts: Your Guide to Assisted Living. To schedule a personalized tour, call us at 1-866-ESKATON (or 1-866-375-2866) or visit eskaton.org.