Questions to Ask When Touring Senior Living Virtually

Sep 19, Alissa Sauer

There’s no question that the last few months have changed the way we live. At Leisure Care, we are constantly seeing creative ways to engage with potential new residents and their families. One way of doing that is by offering virtual tours for families considering senior living.

Choosing Senior Living

Moving to senior living is a big decision and while it may be tempting to put off a move until things return to normal, the truth is that many seniors are finding a move to senior living is bringing peace of mind and confidence. Leisure Care recently found that the positive rates for Covid-19 in our communities are nearly 7 times lower than the national averages through August 2020.

Senior living communities are able to conduct widespread testing and implement comprehensive protocols for cleanliness and infection control that contribute to better health and wellness. And, our nearly 50 years of experience serving seniors doesn’t hurt either.

Starting Your Search

Life looks different now, so it only makes sense that your search for senior living will look different too. As our communities welcome new residents, we are doing what it takes to protect our current residents. We have implemented protocols that will give you an accurate representation of our communities while also respecting social distancing guidelines that protect you, your family, current residents, and our staff.

Experience Leisure Care Senior Living

Canfield Place

Independent Living and Assisted Living in Beaverton, Oregon

Heritage Estates

Senior Apartments and Independent Living and Assisted Living in Livermore, California

Fairwinds - Spokane

Independent Living and Assisted Living in Spokane, Washington

We encourage you to call your local Leisure Care community to get more details on these protocols and request a virtual consultation. One of our compassionate experts can walk you through a day in the life of our residents virtually, giving you a realistic experience, and giving you the chance to get important questions answered.

5 Questions to Ask on a Virtual Tour

We know that it can be difficult to get a comprehensive feel for a senior living community during quarantine or from behind a computer screen. One way to understand the unique culture of the community is by digging deeper and knowing the right questions to ask. 

With most things, preparation is key. Our senior living experts have compiled a list of important questions to ask during a virtual tour that will help you more fully understand the community culture and lifestyle. 

1. Can I try the food?

We highly recommend you try a meal at every community you tour! Whether you schedule a private in-house tour or are viewing from behind a computer, know that there are options for taste-testing. While on a private tour, the dining room may be limited but you can request a to-go option to be offered before you leave. If you were given a virtual consultation, then meal delivery or pick up is a safe and delicious choice when requested ahead of time.

2. Can I speak to other residents virtually?

This is a great way to understand more about life in the community – and even make a new friend before you move-in! The community should be able to organize a phone conversation with current residents and their family members or even a virtual happy hour with multiple residents that will give you more insight into the community culture. 

3. How are residents staying engaged mentally and physically?

Ask about the creative ways the community has adapted fun activities while following social distancing protocols. You should expect to learn about how the community is striving to meet the social, emotional, physical, and mental needs of their residents year-round. Request an activity calendar to get a more comprehensive list of activities and events.

4. Can I meet the leadership team?

Most communities should give you time with their leadership team virtually to help you understand the different services and amenities that will be offered and to meet the people who will be involved in your life in the community.

For those seeking care services, ask to speak with the community’s Health and Wellness leader to discuss care needs and get a better understanding of the services available upon move-in.

5. What are the current protocols for the community and what is it like to move-in?

The community should be able to provide you with clear and well-established guidelines that put you and your loved ones at ease. If you require moving services, ask for a recommendation. The community should have a trusted partnership with an experienced moving company that can facilitate your move. 

Finding the Community That’s Right for You

When it comes to senior living, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. As you take your tour, think through what is important to you in a senior living community.  Every person will have different priorities and different needs. Let your potential new community know what is important to you to find your new home and start living better than ever.

Are you interested in learning more about senior living? Contact a local Leisure Care community today for a virtual consultation and to learn more about moving into a Leisure Care senior living community.