How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community: 5 Key Questions to Ask

Choosing the right senior living community is a big decision. You want the perfect blend of comfort, care, and quality. But where do you start? There are many options out there, and it can feel overwhelming. Don't worry—this guide will help you ask the right questions and simplify the process.

1. What Levels of Care Do You Offer?

You may not need much, or any, care right now, but what about in the future? Many senior living communities offer multiple levels of care—like Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care—all within the same location. This is often called a continuum of care or aging in place. Some communities require residents to move to a different floor or building as their care needs increase. Make sure to ask what happens when an independent resident needs assisted living services, how is that handled? It’s about planning for both today and tomorrow.

2. How’s the Dining?

Let's be honest—food matters. You don’t want to eat bland or uninspired meals every day. Look for a community that offers chef-prepared meals with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Are there options for different diets? Is there variety? Does the staff eat the food there? Ask to take a tour of the dining room and taste a meal. After all, you deserve more than just cafeteria food—you deserve something delicious and healthy.

3. How Do You Staff to Resident Needs?

Staffing isn’t just about numbers—it’s about needs. While many communities talk about their staff-to-resident ratio, what’s more important is how they staff based on the actual care needs of their residents. For instance, a ratio might seem good on paper, but if most residents require high levels of care, that ratio might not be enough. On the flip side, if the residents are mostly independent, a high ratio might result in overstaffing. Make sure the community staff to actual care needs, not just the numbers.

4. What Activities Are Available?

Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down. A well-rounded senior living community offers activities that keep you engaged—whether it's exercise classes, game nights, or even gardening clubs. Find out what’s on the calendar, and make sure they offer activities you actually enjoy. Sitting in a chair all day? No thanks. Staying active and social is key to living well.

5. How Are Emergencies Handled?

No one likes to think about emergencies, but they happen. A truly best-in-class community will have clear protocols for handling medical emergencies, power outages (do they have an onsite generator), and other unexpected situations. Ask about their emergency response system and how quickly help can arrive. You want a place that’s prepared for anything.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right senior living community doesn't have to be stressful. When you find the right place, you will know. Sometimes, you need to ask a few questions to get the information you are looking for. Remember, you are your own best advocate. Get out there, have fun, ask great questions, and once the decision has been made, don't hesitate = 90% of residents in senior living communities say they wish they would have moved sooner.