Being a part of a senior living community provides several advantages. From the dining options to engaging activities, new friends, and a low-maintenance lifestyle, there are plenty of aspects to look forward to.
However, deciding on a St. Louis independent living community can be difficult. With so many options available, how do you choose the right one? After all, you want to move into a community that aligns with your lifestyle and enables you to enjoy your retirement the way you want. In addition to the general amenities and services you’ll hear about, here are some more specific questions to consider asking.
Community
Independent living communities generally offer several living options, including the number of bedrooms in the apartments, floor plans, and more. The key when you’re looking at a community is to pay attention to the inside and outside of community buildings. Is the community well-decorated and landscaped? Is there ample space and easy access to common areas? Additionally, pay attention to what the staff members are like and if the residents are happy.
Here are some questions to ask staff members when evaluating a community:
- How many residents live here?
- Do you have accommodations for overnight guests?
- What is your pet policy?
- How often do you have rate increases?
Your Apartment
A well-decorated home can improve your well-being, reduce stress, boost energy, and provide a sense of familiarity. Decorating your personal space is just as important as moving into the apartment itself. The questions below will help you determine how much you can customize your apartment and make it feel like home:
- What changes are allowed to the apartment, such as painting and flooring?
- How much additional storage is available?
- What are the parking options?
- What happens when there is an issue with an appliance?
Dining
Food is extremely important, so ensure your community offers delicious and healthy meal options. The meal plan should be flexible and provide the opportunity for you to indulge in your favorite meals once in a while. For example, at Bethesda, we offer various meal options, including a variety of entrees, salads, sides, and more.
It’s also important to consider the dining room itself. Is it comfortable? What would it be like to eat there with new friends? Here are some questions to ask:
- What is the charge for guest meals?
- What is the policy for delivering meals to apartments?
- How does the chef accommodate special diets?
- Is there a food committee to discuss meal options?
Miscellaneous
You’ll want to understand the services the community offers, such as transportation, housekeeping, and more. These questions are designed to help you develop an understanding of how the community will respond to each of these events:
- What transportation is provided?
- What is included in housekeeping services?
- What happens in the event of an emergency?
- What happens when a resident needs more assistance?
Atmosphere
Don’t underestimate the culture of the community. The community should be a vibrant, reputable place to live that supports your lifestyle. The following questions will help you understand how staff members view the community and how the community is managed:
- How long has the community been open?
- Who owns the community, and where is your home office located?
- What happens if a resident runs out of money?
- How long have you worked here, and what is your favorite aspect of working in this community?
Choose a Community That Matches Your Tastes
You’re vibrant and unique. Make sure you find a community that’s also unique and supports your tastes and lifestyle. Come and see what St. Louis independent living has to offer by booking a tour of a Bethesda community today!
