When you're ready to research retirement residences or communities, especially those in self-contained structures, you're wise to make two or three visits, including one to have a meal. Some properties have guest accommodations where you can stay for several days, which is an excellent way to find out how well you like the facilities and people. At the very least, stay long enough to get a feel for the place. Talk to current residents and staff and ask lots of questions. To get you started, here's a checklist of things to consider before making a decision to move.

General Information

Before even setting foot inside, observe the grounds.

What do you think of the landscaping?

Are walkways even and safe?

Do you see benches or other places for residents to sit outside and relax? Remember, this may be your front yard for a long time.

When you're greeted by staff and sales personnel, make a mental note of how you feel about them. Do they seem pleasant, cheerful and genuinely glad you're there?

Once you're escorted into an office, look for signs of accreditation, licenses, industry memberships and sanitation scores. These should be prominently displayed.

Get background information on the building(s), such as when they were built and what construction materials were used (brick, wood, siding, etc).

How many floors are there, what's the resident capacity and what safety and security systems are in place? You'll want to know about heating and air conditioning as well.

As you tour, note the overall appearance, cleanliness, light levels, condition and attractiveness of the facilities. Are the furnishings modern and well-maintained?

Common areas, elevators, halls and entrances should be free from impediments and designed to accommodate walkers, scooters, wheelchairs and visually-impaired individuals. Look for handrails along the hallways.

Resident Suites

Ask about the various sizes, styles and prices of units.

Ascertain what is currently available and if there's a waiting list (if yes, how long would you have to wait?)

When you see model suites, pay attention to details like where the wall sockets are located.

Can you reach them without difficulty?

Look for smoke detectors, inquire if they use batteries and, if so, who takes care of replacing them.

Do you see a sprinkler in each room?

Of particular interest is the heating and air conditioning system. Is each suite separately controlled?

If you need a wheelchair-accessible bathroom, raised toilet seat or a hand-held shower, are they present or available?

Look for an emergency call bell or pull cord and ask who'll respond to it.

Determine what furnishings are provided and which of your own you may bring. This varies greatly and depends on the type of facility you're considering.

If the suite has a kitchenette, what appliances are there and what are residents allowed to have (microwave, toaster-oven, coffee maker, etc.).

Find out where the telephone jacks and cable TV hook-ups are located.

Medical Care

Ask about what, if any, medical professionals are available.

If an RN or LPN is on duty, what are the hours and extent of care provided?

Do they have a doctor who comes in regularly and/or is on call?

What are their provisions for medical emergencies?

In assisted living types of residences, para-professionals and/or volunteers do much of the care. You'll want to know exactly what level of care you can expect and by whom.

At what point will you be asked to move out due to your increased needs?

Medications are a serious issue for many seniors. You must be sure you can get what is prescribed. Who is responsible for obtaining, paying for and dispensing medications?

Some communities don't have any form of physical assistance available, but do permit residents to engage caregivers at their own expense. What is the policy of the community you're considering?

Can they recommend reputable home care agencies?

Meals and Other Services

Discuss food service at great length. Ask to see typical menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Inquire about snacks, special diets, food selection, tray delivery if you're ill, guest meals, hours when meals are served and table seating assignments.

See the dining area AND the kitchen, check for cleanliness.

On your tour, ask to see laundry facilities available for resident use.

Are they free?

If you'd prefer to send out laundry and dry cleaning, what are the options?

Housekeeping services for your personal space may or may not be provided; ask about the frequency and extent of housekeeping.

Are bed linens and towels furnished and laundered?

Many places have an on-site beauty/barber shop. Ask to see it and get a list of services with prices. Transportation to appointments and shopping is often available. Do they have a van or bus? Is service scheduled or can residents get a ride whenever they need one?

A chapel or meditation room and worship services may be offered. What are the times and practices?

Recreational Activities
Look for a variety of areas where residents can socialize, watch TV together, play games, read, engage in physical activities and do crafts or other hobbies.

A library, gym, common kitchen, computer room and sometimes a pool or spa may be part of the campus.

Read the activity calendar or newsletter to get an idea about planned recreation.

Are friends and family invited to participate? Holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions are usually a big deal; staff enjoy them as much as the residents. Do they plan field trips and outings on a regular basis? Where do they go and what is the cost?

Financial and Legal Considerations

Get an information packet including financial agreement to take home and study in advance. You MUST determine what is and is not included in your fees, whether monthly or quarterly.

How often do fees increase and by what percentage?

Do they make "assessments" for anything?

A trial stay period may be possible, so ask.

If you have a car, how much does parking cost?

Before signing anything, have your attorney or financial counselor review all agreements.

Do you have to sign a lease or buy into the community?

Can you afford to be in this place?

Take as much time as you need to make a decision, and remember: when in doubt, DON'T.