Finding the right senior living community is an important and rewarding step for seniors and their families. Touring communities gives you a chance to see what daily life is like, meet the people who make the community special, and imagine yourself or your loved one calling it home.
With the right mindset, and the right questions, you can tour with confidence and choose a community that supports your loved one’s comfort, independence, and happiness.
Download The Complete Guide to Senior Housing
When looking for senior housing options for yourself or your loved one, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the variety of choices. This guide provides insights into all of these questions and beyond.
Download the GuideWhat to Look For During a Tour
When considering new living arrangements for seniors, nothing replaces visiting a community itself. Here’s what you should look for and questions to ask when touring a senior living community.
Atmosphere and First Impressions
When you arrive, take in the surroundings. Are team members friendly and welcoming? Do seniors seem happy, engaged, and at ease? These early impressions often say more than brochures ever could.
Start a few conversations with seniors to hear what makes them happiest about living there. Their first-hand experiences can help you understand what daily life is truly like.
If possible, join an event while visiting. Notice the energy, turnout, and camaraderie among seniors. Reviewing the events calendar with your loved one is also a great way to see if the community offers things they’d find interesting and meaningful.
Cleanliness and Comfort
A clean, well-maintained environment reflects care and attention. Take note of the condition of shared spaces, apartments, and hallways. If something seems out of place (like an odor or minor repair), ask about it. Often there’s a simple explanation, and asking shows you care about quality.
Don’t forget the outdoors. Look for inviting areas to walk, sit, and socialize. Gardens, shaded seating, and safe walking paths add to quality of life. Ask about outdoor security features such as lighting, monitored entries, and fencing to ensure peace of mind.
Levels of Care and Personal Support
Every senior has unique preferences. Some communities offer Independent Living, others provide Assisted Living or Memory Care, and some include all three or more. Make sure you understand which Levels of Care are available and how easily your loved one could transition if their circumstances change over time.
Ask how personalized care plans are created, who participates in those decisions, and how often they’re updated. Find out whether licensed nurses or physicians are available and how potential after-hours incidents or emergencies are handled.
Observe how seniors move around the community: Do they appear confident, independent, and happy? Accessibility details like wide hallways, ramps, and grab bars can also make a big difference in day-to-day ease.
Dining and Nutrition
Meals are a cornerstone of community life. If you can, stay for a meal to experience the restaurant-style dining options firsthand. Are the meals fresh, balanced, and appealing? Is the environment lively and social, or calm and cozy?
Ask how many meals are served daily, whether menus are reviewed by a dietitian, and if seniors can request substitutions or special diets. Many communities also offer multiple dining venues, private dining rooms for family gatherings, and all-day snacks, all small touches that make dining more delightful.
Living Spaces and Amenities
Tour a few residences to get a sense of comfort and flexibility. Ask whether apartments are furnished or unfurnished, and if seniors can personalize their spaces with décor or furniture from home.
Check for safety features such as emergency call buttons, grab bars, and well-lit areas. Confirm what’s included in the monthly rate (like Wi-Fi, housekeeping, or laundry) and ask about pet policies.
Shared amenities such as fitness rooms, salons, libraries, and lounges help seniors stay active and connected with added convenience. A vibrant community will offer plenty of ways to engage, learn, and relax.
Community Engagement and Social Life
A full, connected social life supports overall well-being. Review the community’s calendar for events that encourage creativity, fitness, and fun. Ask if seniors can take part in off-site events, volunteer opportunities, or intergenerational programs.
Communities that welcome senior input, through councils or suggestion meetings, often foster a strong sense of belonging. You can also ask how seniors are welcomed and supported in their first weeks, which can make the transition smoother.
Safety, Security, and Communication
Safety and peace of mind go hand in hand. Ask about emergency call systems, alarms, and backup power. Observe lighting in hallways and outdoor areas, and inquire about visitor check-ins or gated entries.
Just as important is how the community communicates with families. Many use newsletters, online portals, or email updates to share news, policy changes, or emergencies, keeping everyone informed and connected.
32 Questions to Ask on a Senior Living Tour
Bring this checklist on your next visit so you can cover every important detail with confidence.
Care & Team Members
1. What is the team-member-to-senior ratio by shift?
2. Are background checks required for all team members?
3. Are caregivers trained in Memory Care and safety best practices?
4. Are nurses or a physician available on site or on call?
5. How are individual care plans created, reviewed, and updated?
6. How are medical emergencies handled, and what is the average response time?
Move-In, Move-Out, & Policies
7. What is the move-in process like?
8. Is there a waiting list, and how long is the typical wait?
9. Are there entrance or deposit fees, and are they refundable?
10. What is included in the monthly fee, and what services are extra?
11. How often do fees increase, and by how much?
12. If a senior’s requirements or finances change, what are the available options?
13. What notice is required to move out, and are any fees refundable?
Dining & Nutrition
14. How many meals are served per day?
15. Are dining times flexible?
16. Can meals be tailored to dietary tastes or preferences?
17. Are menus reviewed by a dietitian or nutritionist?
18. Can family members join seniors for meals, and is there a cost?
19. Are there multiple dining venues or private rooms available?
Living Spaces & Amenities
2o. What floor plans are available?
21. Are apartments furnished or unfurnished, and can seniors decorate them?
22. What safety features are included in each residence?
23. Are Wi-Fi, utilities, and maintenance included in the monthly rate?
24. What amenities are available on site, and which have additional fees?
25. What is the community’s pet policy?
Events & Engagement
26. What kinds of social, educational, and wellness events are offered?
27. Are off-site events or volunteer opportunities available?
28. Do seniors have a voice in planning programs or sharing feedback?
29. How are new seniors welcomed and introduced to others?
30. Can families participate in community events?
Safety, Security, & Communication
31. What emergency systems and safety protocols are in place?
32. How are seniors and families kept informed about community news or updates?
Touring Senior Living Communities With Confidence
Choosing a senior living community is about more than finding a place to live—it’s about discovering a place to belong. Take your time, ask questions, and trust your instincts. The right community will seem warm, welcoming, and supportive from the very first visit.
At Senior Lifestyle, we’re always happy to answer your questions and show you what makes our communities so special. Whether you’re exploring Independent Living, Assisted Living, or Memory Care, you’ll find a place designed to help you or your loved one feel safe, connected, and at home.
Find out more about Senior Lifestyle or schedule a visit today!