If you’re starting to think about the next step in your retirement, investigating the different senior independent living communities in your area can be a terrific starting point. Below we’ll outline some helpful tips, things to consider, and questions to ask the senior independent living facilities that make it onto your list.

Determine your wants and needs.

Before you dig into researching what’s available, establish a list of the things you’re most interested in finding in your future home. This will give you a high-level outline of the type of senior living community you’re most interested in.

Is future health care a concern? Do you value financial flexibility? What community features or programs are most important to you? Asking yourself these questions upfront can help provide both a set of initial parameters to guide your research and a reference base to measure the information you gather against.

Identify and analyze the options in your target area.

Whether you’re wanting to remain near your current neighborhood, stay close to family and friends, or have your sights set on a brand-new part of the country, determining a general target location can help focus your decision-making process. With a defined search area, you can more quickly get to know what’s available.

Try making a list of the options in your desired geographic footprint. As you gather more and more detail, you can compare things side by side, and start to see where the differences lie – things like the types of contracts offered, amenities included and how longer-term care needs are handled.

Lean on your loved ones.

Enlisting the assistance of those closest to you can be beneficial in a multitude of ways. They can gather information on your behalf and help you look at things objectively. They can also serve as your advocate, accompanying you on in-person visits or even go on more candid community tours of their own.

Know what to look for.

  • Is there current availability? If not, is there a waiting list?
  • Do floor plan options meet your needs for space and offer features that feel like home?
  • Are there any upfront costs and what do they cover?
  • What’s included in the monthly fee?
  • What types of amenities, common spaces and dining options are available?
  • How does the community approach wellness? Is there a well-equipped fitness center and associated programming?
  • In what ways does the community support the health needs of its residents? Is there additional care available on-site?
  • What do current independent living residents have to say?
  • Is the community well-staffed? Are there any turnover issues?
  • Does the community offer move-in coordination?
  • Is the physical community well-maintained?
  • What type of transportation is available?
  • Are pets allowed?
  • Does the community have any partnerships with other local organizations?
  • Are there any upcoming social or informational events you can attend?

You can always look to the team at Eagle Senior Living as a trusted resource throughout your search process. Explore our site to get to know what we stand for and visit our Locations page to find a community near you.