Choosing a senior living community is one of the most meaningful decisions a family can make. It’s about more than finding a place to live. It’s about finding a place to belong.
Touring potential communities gives you a chance to see the environment firsthand, meet the staff, and get a true sense of daily life there. But knowing the right questions to ask can make all the difference.
We’ve compiled 20 thoughtful questions to help you look beyond the brochures and uncover what truly matters: quality of care, comfort, and connection. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or a loved one, these questions will help you find a community that feels like home.
Questions to Ask on Your Tour
These questions are designed to help you gain a comprehensive understanding of what each community has to offers and see whether or not it aligns with your needs, preferences, and expectations.
Healthcare Questions
- What levels of care do you offer? Do you offer independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, short-term rehab, outpatient therapy, respite care?
- How do you handle transitions between different levels of care, should a resident’s needs change over time?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio, particularly in areas like assisted living or skilled nursing?
- How do you handle medical emergencies or provide healthcare services?
- What medical services are offered on site, do healthcare professionals visit the home?
- Do you offer onsite therapy services such as outpatient therapy or short-term rehabilitation?
- How is my level of care determined, is there an assessment before I move in to determine how much assistance I need?
- May I have my own private caregiver and not use your services?
Questions About Daily Life
- What kind of enrichment activities are offered on-site? Do you offer art, music, clubs, or classes? Consider asking for the monthly or weekly activity calendar.
- Can residents personalize their living spaces? What options do they have?
- Are there any restrictions or guidelines regarding visitors, pets, or overnight guests?
- How is security maintained within the facility?
- Do you celebrate religious holidays, if so which ones?
- Are there transportation services available for residents who may need to travel for appointments or errands? Is there a fee?
- Can you provide information about the dining experience, including menus, meal options, and dietary accommodations? Who would I sit with, how is that determined?
Logistical Questions
- What measures are in place to ensure cleanliness and maintenance of the facility?
- How are residents’ preferences and feedback considered in the operation of the retirement home? Is there a resident meeting, or a survey?
- What is the procedure for handling complaints or concerns from residents or their families?
- Will my monthly fees be increased, if so, how often? Are there fees that are not included in the basic price, such as adding an additional meal to my plan or medical services?
- Can I try it out before making a commitment, do you offer a respite stay (short-term) stay or may I stay for an event or a meal?
About The Selfhelp Home
Founded by Jewish German refugees of the Holocaust, The Selfhelp Home is Chicago’s leading nonprofit Continuing Care Retirement Community for Jewish seniors. We proudly offer all the levels of care, including independent living, assisting living, skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation.
Learn more about The Selfhelp Home by contacting us at 773.271.0300 or [email protected].