Ten steps to finding the right senior living community

Finding the perfect senior living community and lifestyle is as easy as counting to ten.

1. Do the research

Senior living communities are typically classified by the lifestyles or levels of care offered. Lifestyle choices range from Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing. Many communities combine lifestyles.

2. Consult Reviews

Do your homework and read what others think of the assisted living communities you’re looking at. Online reviews can be a good start. Use ratings to narrow down prospective communities or read them after a tour to see if the results match your experience.

3. Evaluate Your Budget

In most senior living communities, services included are extensive – three meals or more a day, utilities, emergency response systems, scheduled housekeeping and transportation to name a few. In general, supportive services and care, such as help with bathing, dressing and medication management are accessed and charged by the amount of service needed. There are also multiple options to help pay for care such as VA aid and Attendance benefits and applicable long-term care insurance.

4. Schedule a Visit

You can learn a lot online, but there is nothing like visiting a community in person. Schedule a personal tour.

5. Ask about Security

One of the key benefits moving to a senior living community is added security. Ask about it. Many offer 24 hour security for all residents.

6. Explore Activities & Events

Communities can have robust monthly activity and event calendars for their residents. Reviewing this calendar can give you an idea of what it would be like to live there. Additional services and amenities can also include theaters, salons, fitness classes and chapels.

7. Transportation & Shopping

Many communities offer scheduled local transportation for residents to visit doctors, local entertainment sites, shopping or other venues, essentially eliminating the need and expense of maintaining a car – much less the worries and concerns about driving, in good weather or bad.

8. Sample the Dining

Food matters, particularly when you will be dining at the same place three or more times a day, all month long. You can ask for a menu, but it is best to sample for yourself the type and quality of fare you will be receiving after you move-in. Most communities will treat you to a meal.

9. Consider Healthcare

How close is the nearest hospital or medical center? Senior living communities offer different levels of on-site healthcare options. You will want to know what medical care is available on-site and nearby.

10. Make an Informed Choice

Choosing a senior living option is easier than you think! The residents and associates you come in contact with at the communities are very gracious and helpful. They also make great friends and neighbors!

Whether you wish to indulge in worry-free living surrounded by beauty and exquisite amenities, or if you or a loved one requires a bit of assistance to remain living independently, but still desires a full, active, rewarding lifestyle, Tuscan Gardens Senior Living welcomes you home.