When the time comes that you or your aging loved one is ready to tour senior living communities, the process may feel intimidating and stressful. Knowing what to look for as you explore communities and what questions to ask will help you or your senior parent feel confident in their final decision.
The first step to securing the right community for your loved one is to start visiting communities in your area. Touring potential homes is the best way to get a feel for the culture, meet staff members, and ask questions about life at the community.
To get you started in your search for the right senior living community, we’ve compiled a list of questions you can ask on your tour.
What levels of living are supported on-site?
A community that feels like the perfect fit now may not suit your loved one’s needs in the future. You will want to find out if the community is a place where residents can transition to assisted living or another level of care if needed.
As a not-for-profit organization, Vista Grande Villa offers a close-knit family of continuum care services under one roof—independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation, long-term skilled nursing care, and respite care. Our residents can age-in-place as care needs change and progress.
What are my options for senior housing?
As with choosing any residence, you will want to research the types of housing available and how well they meet your needs and lifestyle. Tour the community’s living spaces to get a feel for the layout and amenities. See what floor plans are available and ask if residents can personalize furnishings or décor. Look closely at the finishes, kitchen appliances, storage space, and safety features. Can you picture yourself living here? Does this space suit your needs and preferences?
At Vista Grande Villa, residents can choose from an array of beautifully designed, pet-friendly apartment homes or spacious, free-standing carriage homes. Each layout features beautiful finishes, updated appliances, and fully equipped kitchens to support your worry-free lifestyle.
What are the dining options?
As you tour different communities, be sure to check out the dining options and ask if you can try a meal. How many meals do you get a day? Are there a variety of dining options from restaurant-style to grab-and-go items? What about special dietary needs?
At Vista Grande Villa, residents have access to a personal culinary experience every day at one of our three on-site venues. Our nutritious, chef-prepared meals are always changing, providing residents a diverse, pleasurable, and delicious dining experience day in and day out.
What amenities are offered?
Moving to a senior living community shouldn’t disrupt your lifestyle—it should enhance it! During your tour, make sure the services and amenities cater to your interests and satisfy your expectations.
At VGV, we offer amenities and services like those found at a high-end resort, including:
- Housekeeping and flat linens
- Dining room or option for personal catering services
- On-campus convenience store
- Library and den
- Private chapel (non-denominational)
- Landscaped courtyards, paved walking paths, and outdoor patios
- Beauty salon and barber shop
- Therapy room for wellness services
- Transportation services
- Around-the-clock security, emergency alert pulls, and pendants
- On-campus Health Clinic and 24-hour emergency wellness checks
Our amenities are designed to give residents all the comforts of home and the peace of mind knowing onsite support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if you need it.
What opportunities are there to socialize?
When you visit a community, be sure to inquire about their programs and social events. A reputable senior living community should offer a wide and diverse selection of activities to choose from, such as book clubs, fitness classes, game nights, and more. At VGV, we take a comprehensive approach to wellness by offering an abundance of activities designed to keep residents social and active. Here are just a few of the activities and events that we offer to keep you learning, moving, and growing:
- Community outings
- Guided or independent strength and cardio training
- Volunteer opportunities
- Educational seminars
- Resident designed and focused clubs, groups, and committees
- Fitness classes focused on posture, core, and balance
- Musical and cultural events
- And more!
What services are covered in the monthly fee?
Finally, ask about pricing and which services and amenities are covered in your monthly fee. At VGV, your residency fee covers a variety of standard services and amenities, including meal credits and snacks, utilities, safety features, access to building amenities, recreation activities, transportation, and more. During your tour of a community, a sales team should be available to walk you through your financial considerations and find a plan that suits your needs and finances.
Schedule a Tour Today!
Most importantly, take notice of how you feel during and after your tour. Does the community look and feel like a place you would be excited to call home? If you’re ready to learn more about VGV, the best first step would be to schedule a tour. While you’re here, our knowledgeable staff will show you around our beautiful campus and get to know more about your lifestyle needs and answer any questions you may have.
