Top 10 Questions to Ask When Touring a Senior Living Community

Choosing the right senior living community for you or your loved one is a big decision. While researching options online is a helpful first step, nothing compares to actually touring a senior living community in person. A senior living tour gives you the opportunity to explore the community, meet staff and residents, and ask the important questions that will help you get a true sense of whether it feels like home. 

Whether you’re just beginning your search or narrowing down your choices, having a list of questions to ask when touring senior living communities will help you stay focused during your visit on what matters most to you. The questions can also help you as you compare multiple senior living communities, and ultimately determine whether a community is the right fit.

While we hope you choose one of our many communities, National Church Residences wants you to feel confident in your decision, no matter where you choose to live. To help you get started, we’ve put together a list of ten essential questions to ask when touring senior living communities that covers everything from care to cost to lifestyle. 

Cost & Contracts

1. What is included in the monthly cost, and what additional fees should I expect?

When touring a senior living community, cost is one of the first and most important questions you should ask. Understanding the full breakdown will help you determine whether a community fits within your budget or not. 

You should ask what services are included in the monthly fee, such as meals, housekeeping, utilities, transportation, and what items might cost extra. By asking this early during your senior living tour, you’ll avoid surprises later on and have a clear picture of what to expect long-term.

Living Arrangements

2. What floor plans are available, and do apartments come furnished?

Your living space plays a huge role in your overall comfort and happiness. During your senior living tour, be sure to ask about available apartment layouts and sizes. Whether you’re looking for a studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom option, it’s important to see them in person so you can imagine yourself living there.

Also, find out if the apartments come furnished or if you’ll need to bring your own belongings. This can help you plan what to pack, what to donate, and how to make the space your own.

3. What is your pet policy?

If you or your loved one has a furry companion, this is a key question to include in your list. Many communities, including National Church Residences locations, are pet-friendly, though they may have restrictions based on size or breed. Remember to ask whether pets are allowed in individual apartments and what amenities exist for pet owners. After all, you want your future home to welcome the whole family, paws included.

Lifestyle & Community

4. What types of activities are available to residents, including spiritual or religious services, and how often do they occur? 

One of the biggest benefits of moving into a senior living community is the social connection and variety of things to do. As you go on different senior living tours, be sure to ask about daily and weekly activities that match your interests and hobbies. Are there fitness classes? Game nights? Crafting or music events? 

If your faith is important to you, consider asking about spiritual services. National Church Residences proudly offers a Chaplaincy Program at all of our communities, with trained chaplains available to provide prayer, support, and spiritual care for residents of all faiths.

5. Are visitors allowed any time or are there specific visiting hours? 

Seeing friends and family is essential for emotional wellness, so make sure to ask about visitor rules during your senior living tour. While most communities offer open visitation hours, there may be guidelines to ensure safety and coordination with staff. You might also want to ask if there are common areas available for family gatherings, outdoor patios for visits, or guest suites for out-of-town visitors. 

Dining & Transportation

6. How many meals or snacks are provided per day, and are they at set times? 

Mealtimes aren’t just about nutrition, they’re also a chance to socialize and have fun. When touring a senior living community, ask about the dining schedule, menu variety, and how flexible mealtimes are.

Also ask whether snacks are available throughout the day and what happens if you miss a scheduled mealtime. During your senior living tour, take a look at the dining room or café. Ask if you can sample a meal or view the current menu to get a feel for what dining looks like. This is one of the most enjoyable and overlooked parts of senior living tours, so don’t skip it!

7. Do you offer transportation for doctor’s appointments? 

Your health is essential, so it’s important to know if a community you’re considering offers reliable transportation services, especially if you or your loved one is no longer driving. Many senior living communities offer shuttle services to nearby medical offices and hospitals so residents can attend checkups with ease.

During your senior living tour, ask how far in advance rides need to be scheduled, whether transportation is included in monthly fees, and if escorts are available. Some communities may also have on-site or visiting medical providers—another option worth asking about.

Healthcare & Support

8. Is there medical staff on-site, and is care available 24/7 if needed? 

When it comes to peace of mind, knowing that care is available around the clock is essential. During your senior living tour, be sure to ask if nurses or caregivers are on-site 24/7, or if there’s an on-call system in place for emergencies. Some communities may have licensed nursing staff available at all times, while others may only have staff during certain hours.

9. What options are available if my health needs change? 

When touring a senior living community, ask if other types of care options are offered, such as independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, and how transitions between them are handled.

Some communities offer all levels of care on one campus, called a Continuing Care Retirement Community, making it easier to change care levels without moving to a different location. Be sure to include this in your list of questions to ask so you can feel confident that the community will be able to support you long-term, no matter what changes come your way.

Resident Experience 

10. How are new residents welcomed to the community, and what kind of support could I expect as I acclimate? 

Starting a new chapter in a senior living community can come with a mix of emotions, including excitement, uncertainty, or even nervousness. That’s why it’s important to ask how the community helps new residents adjust to their surroundings. During your senior living tour, ask whether there’s a welcome program in place or staff members who check in regularly.

Finding The Right Place to Call Home

Finding the right senior living community can feel overwhelming at times, and that’s completely normal. But with every tour you take and every question you ask, you’re moving one step closer to the peace of mind that comes with making the right choice. By preparing thoughtful questions to ask when touring senior living communities, you’ll be better equipped to find one that truly feels like home.

At National Church Residences, we hope you’ll find your next home at one of our welcoming communities across the country. If you need additional support as you search, or assistance preparing for upcoming senior living tours, our team is happy to help! Contact us today and let’s find your next home, together.

Browse Our Senior Living Locations