What to Expect

By: Libby Jensen, CSA®

Over the course of the last 13 years, most spent as a Marketing Director in a Eden Prairie senior community,

I’ve conducted/participated in hundreds of tours. Yet each one was different – that’s because each person’s story and perspectives are unique.

Let’s start with a question – why should I visit communities when I’m not ready to move?  There are a couple answers to that:

• Many, if not most, communities have waiting lists – especially for the larger apartments, 2 or 3 bedrooms apartments, townhomes or one bedroom + den. Those waits can be a 1 to 2 years or longer. One bedroom apartments tend to be available more regularly.
• As most of us know or have even experienced – unexpected things happen that can change life quickly. Falls, car accidents, diagnosis of cancer or other serious health conditions, to name a few. Having a plan in place may give you peace of mind and some control over the decisions that will need to be made with regards to location, cost, types of care etc

Touring – Independent – what can you expect?

An experienced, knowledgeable and friendly marketing/sales representative who is focused on your circumstance and criteria.  A discussion and review should entail:

• Your reason for visiting
• Apartment styles and sizes
• Rent costs, what is included and what sorts of things will incur additional costs
• Activities calendar
• Amenities
• Walk-thru of common spaces and seeing an apartment or two
• If healthcare should become needed – what does the community offer

I suggest some thought be given to identifying what is important to you before heading out. For example:

• Green space/yard
• Swimming pool, workout/exercise options
• Apartment size/view
• Proximity to stores, freeways etc.
• Pet friendly

Touring – Assisted Living and Memory Care – what can you expect?

In addition to some of the things mentioned above:

• A thorough discussion of the health issues for the person needing the care services
• What “model” is used for the types of services needed and the associated costs
• Staffing details with regards to aides and nursing
• A walk-thru of the assisted area and memory care “neighborhood” (if appropriate)
• Financial option should funds become an issue

Of course visits will vary depending on the community, your questions and input.

Just considering a change can be overwhelming, particularly if there are health concerns. Uncertainty about where to start often leads to simply putting it off.  If that is your situation, know that our team of advisors at Choice Connections are happy to offer the expertise that comes with years of experience in navigating the field of senior living.