10 questions to help you choose the right retirement community
1. What amenities are available nearby?
When choosing a retirement community, it’s important to consider where it is located. You should choose an area you love, one with all the amenities and services that meet your needs. Is the community near a pharmacy, grocery store, and other services you require? Depending on your lifestyle, other factors might also affect your decision such as public transit, access to a park, type of terrain in the surrounding areas, etc.
2. What activities are available at the community?
Some retirement communities offer a plethora of activities and amenities: pool, gym, virtual golf, movie theatre, bowling alley, billiards table, community garden, etc. Does the community you’re interested in come with an activity leader who oversees events and activities such as choir practice, yoga, dance, aquafitness classes, etc.? Ask about the calendar of activities.
3. What kind of apartment configurations are available?
You’ll obviously want to see the options available in terms of apartment layout. Make sure to determine what kind of rent would be suitable for your budget. Do you need a tub or a shower? Do you need several rooms and a private balcony? Do you prefer to be on a higher floor, in an apartment that gets a lot of sunlight, or do you prefer a place with a view? Make a list of your needs and wants. This will help you pick an apartment you’ll love.
4. What kind of services are included in the price?
Make sure to obtain an exhaustive list of what’s included and excluded. Here are some examples:
- Meals
- Heating
- Hot water
- AC
- Housekeeping services
- Phone
- Cable
- Internet
- Healthcare services
- Storage
- Events and recreational activities
5. Does the retirement community offer the care you need?
Find out what kind of healthcare services and support are provided. Are there units accommodating senior citizens who need special or convalescent care?
6. What is the average age of residents?
This may seem like a bizarre question, but it’s an important one. If you’re in your early 60s, you might want to spend time with people who have a similar lifestyle to yours. A community for senior citizens who need assisted living or who are older might not suit your lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to ask the advisor this question. They’re used to answering it.
7. What kind of security is offered?
If security is a top priority for you, you should find out if the retirement community offers the following:
- CCTV
- Access control
- 24/7 security
- Medical alert system or bracelet
- Daily check-in service
- Fire sprinklers
8. What are the community rules?
You should find out what kind of community by-laws have been adopted. Are pets allowed? Are smokers? What are the opening hours for public spaces? Can your friends and family take part in activities even if they don’t live at the community?
9. Is parking available?
Parking fees and locations are an important factor for you and your guests. Some retirement communities have a garage and others don’t.
10. Are the residents happy?
If you know people who live in the community you’re interested in, don’t be afraid to ask them what they think. Is the staff competent, friendly, polite? How are the meals? If you visit a retirement community, don’t be afraid to ask this question to residents you meet.
BONUS QUESTION: Would you be happy living in a retirement community?
After getting the answers to your questions, visiting retirement communities, and speaking with the staff and residents, you should have a good idea of what the living situation is. Listen to your gut instinct before you make a decision.
