Questions to Ask on a Community Tour
25 essential questions to ask when touring an assisted living or memory care community — covering staffing, safety, costs, and culture. Print this out and bring it with you.
Touring a senior living community can feel like a lot to take in. The lobby looks beautiful, the staff is friendly, and the dining room smells great. But the questions that matter most are not always the ones that come to mind in the moment.
This checklist is organized by category so you can work through it systematically — and so nothing important slips through the cracks. We recommend bringing a notepad or using your phone to record answers. You will be comparing multiple communities, and the details blur together quickly.
Staffing & Care
- 1What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day? In the evenings? Overnight?
- 2How is staff turnover? Have there been significant changes in the past year?
- 3Are caregivers employees of the community, or are they contracted through an agency?
- 4What training do caregivers receive — and how often is it updated?
- 5How are care needs assessed when a new resident moves in?
- 6How often are care plans reviewed and updated as needs change?
- 7Who is the primary point of contact for family members?
Safety & Health
- 1How does the community handle medical emergencies?
- 2Is there a nurse on-site 24 hours a day, or on-call?
- 3How are medications managed and administered?
- 4What is the protocol if a resident falls?
- 5How does the community handle residents who wander or have behavioral needs?
- 6What happens if my loved one's care needs exceed what the community can provide?
Costs & Contracts
- 1What is included in the base monthly fee — and what costs extra?
- 2How often do rates increase, and by how much on average?
- 3What is the move-out policy if the community is no longer a good fit?
- 4Is there a community fee or move-in deposit? Is it refundable?
- 5What financial assistance programs does the community accept (VA benefits, long-term care insurance, Medicaid)?
Daily Life & Culture
- 1What does a typical day look like for a resident?
- 2What activities and programming are offered? Are they optional?
- 3How is the dining experience? Can I see a sample menu or eat a meal?
- 4How does the community accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences?
- 5Can residents personalize their rooms or bring their own furniture?
- 6Are pets allowed?
- 7Can I speak with current residents or family members about their experience?
A Few Tips for the Tour Itself
Want Us to Tour With You?
Our advisors accompany families on tours at no cost. We know what to look for — and what questions to push on when the answers are vague.