Q. We are two adult daughters with aging parents in their late 70s, and we’re starting to explore senior living options for them. Our parents are still very active, but they’re both starting to need a little more help around their home. We’re doing our best to be proactive, but it’s a big decision. We want to ensure we’re asking the right questions when we tour potential facilities.
Could you advise us on what to ask during our tours? We want our parents to have the best possible experience, but we’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the options available.
A. Thank you so much for reaching out. You’re both doing your best to support your parents during this important transition. Deciding on senior living can be overwhelming, but with a bit of preparation, you’ll feel much more confident in your decision.
When you’re touring senior living communities, here are some questions to ask and things to keep in mind:
Start by asking what services are included in the monthly fee. Most senior living communities offer various packages, so it’s important to understand what’s covered and what’s not. Ask about meals, housekeeping, laundry services, and transportation. Are there additional costs for certain services, like personal care, medication management, or additional nursing care?
Next, ask about the staff-to-resident ratio. This is important because it tells you how much attention each resident gets. Ask about how many staff members are on hand at different times of day, especially during nights and weekends when staffing might be reduced. You want to ensure that your parents will receive the attention they deserve, no matter what time it is.
Another important question to ask is about what your parents can expect on an average day. What types of activities and social events are offered? Active engagement is key to a fulfilling life as we age, so inquire about the community’s offerings. Are there exercise classes, outings, or social events that your parents might enjoy? It’s important to ensure they’ll have opportunities to stay active and socialize with others.
Although your parents may be in good health now, another essential question to ask relates to what happens should their care needs change over time. Ask about how the community handles changes in care needs. Are they equipped to provide more assistance, and is it easy to transition to a higher level of care?
During your tour, be sure to observe the community’s culture. Notice the interactions between staff and residents. Do the residents seem happy and engaged? Are they clean and well-groomed? Does the staff seem friendly, attentive, and approachable? The community’s atmosphere will be a big part of how your parents feel day-to-day.
Lastly, if your parents value their independence and want to stay in their own space, home care may be the right option to explore. Home care companies offer assistance with basic living tasks, such as personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and transportation. This might be a better fit if your parents aren’t yet ready for the transition to senior living but need some extra support to maintain their quality of life.
Ultimately, the best decision depends on your parents’ preferences and what they feel most comfortable with. It’s great that you’re being proactive, and I’m sure whatever you choose, your parents will appreciate your support as they navigate this next chapter.
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