Touring a senior living community is an excellent opportunity not only to see the amenities and residences in person but also to truly get a feel for the community. We recommend making a list of questions to ask during your visit. Below are some helpful questions to ask to find the best fit for your loved one. And at Highpoint at Cape Coral, we’re happy to help with everything you’re wondering about, including how to pay for senior living.
Exterior:
- Is the community located in a safe, welcoming neighborhood?
- Is the community close to family and friends?
- Are there shopping centers or other businesses conveniently located?
- Is it near churches, doctors’ offices and other important places?
- Are the grounds easy to navigate and well-maintained?
- Is there a secure, enclosed area where residents can walk and socialize?
- Is there convenient parking outside, including handicapped spaces?
- Is parking provided, or is there an extra charge for it?
- Is there covered parking available?
Hospitality:
- How many people live in the community?
- Are the residents friendly and welcoming?
- Are staff members attentive and warm?
- Is the layout easy to follow and navigate?
- Are there open, inviting areas for residents to meet and socialize, with plenty of room for visiting family members?
- Are hallways well-lit and spacious, with handrails for safety and room for wheelchairs?
Activities:
- What are the most popular activities?
- Is there a calendar of activities, and are there activities that you would like to join?
- Are there social events, clubs or committees for residents to get involved with?
- What types of fitness classes and wellness activities are offered?
- Are there scheduled outings or extended trips available for residents?
- Does the community provide special services such as a beauty salon, wellness center or game room?
- Is transportation available?
- Are there worship services on-site?
Dining:
- Are the dining rooms visually appealing?
- How many meals are provided per day? Is all-day dining available, or is it offered at set times?
- Are you able to sample the menu or visit for a meal?
- Does the menu vary and offer appetizing, nutritious foods?
- Are snacks provided? If so, how and when do residents get them?
- Does the community cater to specific dietary needs or special requests?
- Are residents able to bring food back to their apartments? Do apartments have kitchens/kitchenettes?
- Can guests join residents in the dining areas?
- Is there a private room available for family celebrations or intimate dinners?
Residences:
- What floor plans are available?
- Do most residents have a private residence or do they share with another resident?
- Does each residence have a private, handicapped-equipped bathroom, or is there one shared bathroom?
- Are residents’ apartments personalized with photos, keepsakes or other belongings?
- Is there adequate closet and storage space?
- Do all units have a telephone? Cable TV? Internet access?
- Do available apartments have an attractive view?
- Is the community pet-friendly?
- Is the community smoke-free?
Safety:
- What security features are in place? What do residents do in case of an emergency?
- Are there ongoing safety protocols for visitors and residents?
- Can residents with walkers or wheelchairs get around with ease?
- Are the floors slip-resistant?
- Are rooms and bathrooms equipped with emergency call buttons?
- Does the community have handrails?
- Are there safety locks on the doors and windows?
- Does the community have sprinklers and smoke detectors?
Contracts & Finances:
- Has the community provided you with a contract that details all fees and services?
- Is it easy to read and understand?
- If there’s an entrance or community fee, what is the amount, and is a portion refundable?
- How much is the monthly rent/service fee and what is included/not included?
- What is the security deposit, and is it refundable?
Finding The Best Fit For You Or Your Loved One
We hope these questions will help you feel confident and informed as you tour different senior living communities. If you’d like to take a tour of Highpoint at Cape Coral, please contact us. Our friendly team members are happy to show you around and answer any questions you may have.