If you are searching for retirement living options for yourself or a loved one, you may be asking yourself some of these questions:
- How do I find senior living communities near me?
- How do I know which of them has what I’m looking for in retirement living?
- Which ones have an atmosphere that complements my idea of retirement?
- What amenities do they offer that line up with what I like to do?
If you’re asking yourself these kinds of questions, you’re on the right track to finding senior living communities near you that might be a good match.
Consider these criteria in your search
Location
Who are the important people in your life that you would like to live near to so you can see them often? Your children? Grandchildren? Long-time friends? Do you love your present neighborhood, church, library, parks, and shops? Are there doctors and medical services that you need to be close to? Your answers to all of these questions can help guide you in determining the best location of a senior living community for you.
Lifestyle
Each senior living community has a unique style and personality. Some feel more formal, while others are casual and relaxed. Ask yourself, do you feel comfortable in a fancy setting, or is a place that is more home-like to your liking? Do the residents dress up for dinner or wear jeans instead?
Care Needed
Another consideration is the level of care provided, if needed. Even if independent living is right for you now, considering a community with assisted living and memory care options might be a good decision for your care needs down the road.
Now that you’re beginning to get a better idea of what you’re looking for, the next step is starting your search.
How do I find and research the best senior living communities near me?
You may want to open up a notebook or start up your computer and begin a fresh document. At the top, write: Senior Living Communities Near Me. This will be your list of the most likely communities, and where you’ll note your thoughts and impressions.
Now, begin your search.
Word of Mouth
Think about your friends, relatives, former colleagues, members of your church, tennis and golf partners, neighbors, and anyone else whose opinion you value and trust. Tell them about your search and ask if they have any recommendations. Ask if they might have an acquaintance who has a family member residing in a community you’re considering.
Online Searches
The internet is an amazing resource, and a search engine like Google is the tool you want to use to search for senior living communities by location or by care options. Visit the websites of the communities: read over the activities calendar, past newsletters, and blog. Check out their Facebook pages and note if there are images of actual residents going about their days at the community. Are they smiling and enjoying themselves?
Ask Your Trusted Professionals
You most likely have professionals in your life like doctors, attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, and clergy. Believe it or not, they’re used to being asked, “What senior living communities near me do you recommend?” Don’t hesitate to ask them they will most likely have recommendations.
Call the Communities
One of the best ways to get a feel for the people that work at a senior living community is to pick up the phone and talk to them. Ask how long the community has been open, what’s the ratio of staff to residents, what are the monthly fees, and what apartments are available in your timeframe. Take detailed notes in your notebook, including how the person made you feel on the call.
Visit the Communities
You’ll get the best insights about a senior living community by visiting it in person. And by visiting it again. And again. Make a list of questions you would like answered and bring it with you. Look around carefully – take your time. How does it feel? Is the temperature comfortable? Does it smell pleasant? Are the staff respectful and kind to the residents and to you? Does it look neat and well-maintained inside and out? Again, take detailed notes in your notebook.
With the right questions, observations, and diligent research, you’ll feel confident in your search for the senior living community that is right for you. For more on this topic, check out our Choosing The Right Community guide.
