A Family Checklist : Touring Senior Living Communities
Touring a senior living community is an important step, but one that can feel overwhelming. While brochures and online photos can be helpful, nothing replaces seeing a community in action and noticing how it feels to move through the space, interact with staff, and observe residents going about their day.
As you tour, try to look beyond first impressions and focus on how the community supports safety, independence, and well-being over time.
Notice how easy it feels to get around. Well-lit hallways, clear pathways, handrails, and thoughtfully designed apartments all help residents move more confidently. These details play an important role in preventing falls and supporting independence.
Safety is another key consideration. Ask how residents request help and what happens in an emergency. Understanding response times, overnight staffing, and procedures for falls or sudden illness can offer reassurance. A strong safety system doesn’t feel restrictive; it feels quietly dependable.
Daily life matters just as much as safety. Look around during activities or meals. Are residents engaged and comfortable? Communities that encourage movement, social interaction, and purpose support both physical and emotional health. Flexible programming helps residents stay involved in ways that feel meaningful.
It’s also important to ask about wellness and therapy. Access to physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help residents maintain independence, recover after illness, and address new challenges as they arise. Communities that prioritize wellness and offer therapy services can help residents stay active and confident longer.
Pay attention to staff interactions. Notice whether staff greet residents warmly, communicate clearly, and seem attentive rather than rushed. Positive relationships and open communication are often what families value most after move-in.
Dining offers another glimpse into daily life. Meals should feel enjoyable and flexible. Ask how special diets are handled, whether assistance is available when needed, and how resident preferences are honored.
Finally, consider how the community plans for change. Needs can evolve over time, and understanding what kind of support is available can help families feel more confident about long-term fit.
Touring with these considerations in mind can help families move from “this looks nice” to “this feels like the right fit.”
Tour Day Checklist:
Use this checklist during tours to compare communities and capture important details.
Environment & Accessibility
☐ Clear, well-lit hallways and common areas
☐ Handrails, non-slip flooring, and safe transitions
☐ Apartments and bathrooms that feel manageable
Safety & Emergency Response
☐ Emergency call systems in apartments and bathrooms
☐ 24/7 staff availability and reliable response times
☐ Clear plan for falls or medical emergencies
Daily Life & Engagement
☐ Residents appear engaged and comfortable
☐ Activities support social, physical, and cognitive health
☐ Options for different interests and energy levels
Wellness & Therapy Support
☐ Access to physical, occupational, or speech therapy
☐ Support after illness, injury, or hospitalization
☐ Focus on maintaining independence over time
Staff & Communication
☐ Warm, respectful staff interactions
☐ Clear communication with residents and families
☐ Staff are approachable and responsive
Dining & Nutrition
☐ Appealing, flexible meal options
☐ Accommodation for special diets or needs
☐ Assistance available when needed
Planning for the Future
☐ Options if care or mobility needs increase
☐ Support for recovery and transitions
☐ Ability to adapt without immediate relocation