Resources		Printer Friendly Version

Touring Tips

There can be so much to see and remember when you are touring a retirement community. Print and use this comprehensive list to remind you what to look for and ask about as you tour and compare communities.

• Setting and location of the community
• Landscaping attractive and well-maintained
• Buildings connected for convenient access to the main facility during inclement weather
• Interior areas of the community well kept
• Residents pleasant, dressed appropriately
• Request to see independent apartments, assisted living and skilled nursing areas of the community

• What types of residences are offered?
• Where would you park if you were a resident?
• What are the contract specifications and how will I be affected by the parameters now and in the future as I age?
• Background on the community- mission and history, who owns and operates the community, who manages the community
• Request financial statements
• Is the community accredited by the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC)?
• Request to meet residents and dine in the community.

• What are the details of fees and what do they include?
• What is not included?
• When do monthly fees increase and under what conditions?

• What are the requirements to be accepted as a resident?
• At what point in the process do these requirements need to be met?
• What levels of care are provided?
• What is the cost when another level of care is needed?
• What has been the track record of State inspections of the assisted living and nursing care levels?

• Is there a waiting list?
• How long will you wait?
• What is the procedure for adding your name to the waiting list?
• Is there a cost?
• What happens if you are offered an apartment and the timing does not work for you?
• Do you go to the bottom of the list, how often can you refuse, is there a cost associated with refusal?