Searching for the perfect independent living community for you or your loved one, is as important as looking for your first apartment. No one wants to live in an uncomfortable environment, or an environment that is not suitable to their needs.
During the decision making process, it is crucial to compare several options around you and see which suits your loved one, before making your decision. You could decide to visit the community of your choice after talking with family members. Or you could go on tours with your loved one and decide based on what you see. This guide would help you know what to look out for when touring a senior living apartment in Bartholomew, IN.
- Safety and Security
Safety and security are paramount for senior citizens. You need to know if the environment is safe, clutter free and can cater to the special needs of you or your loved ones. The ability to move around without bumping into things and an availability of emergency protocols in times of need, should also be considered.
- Ask Questions
Beyond what you’re told during a tour or enquiry process, is the importance of how your questions are answered, and in what way they are answered. Questions lead to discoveries. As you tour or prepare to tour, take down a list of things you would like to know about, things that are vital to you making a positive decision.
Don’t just ask the tour guides, ask the residents and also the team members. This would help you to understand if the community suits your needs. Ask about the senior living amenities, transportation services, activities, maintenance services, home services and others.
- Talk to the Residents
One easy way to get honest opinions about living communities of interest, is to have open interactions with the residents. If the community does not live up to expectations, you would find out easily by talking to other residents.
Although you might decide to take a formal tour, also take out time to wander on your own. While looking around, take note of the peculiarities and talk to as many residents as you can.
- Observe the Team and Their Relations With Residents
Actions speak louder than a thousand words. Observe how the team members interact with the residents. Their interactions with others would let you know how you or your older loved one would be treated there.
Also, you would want to check their team strength. Are there enough teams for the residents? Or do the team members seem stressed and overworked? Are they friendly? Do they seem standoffish? Do they socialize over meals? Are they more formal? Would your loved one feel comfortable there? Can they fit in? Don’t also forget to ask about emergency protocols in times of health issues, proximity to a hospital, and safety of the outside environment.
- Have a Meal in the Community
While this might seem pretty ordinary, it should be at the top of your list. Doing this, you can assess the quality and nutritional value of the meal on their menu. Observe how the team relates with the residents.
