Choosing Independent Living

Use this checklist to review options

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
☐ Is the community clean and well maintained?
☐ Is ample parking available for residents and visitors?
☐ Are exterior maintenance, snow removal and landscaping included in the monthly fees?
☐ Are there multiple floor plans available?
☐ Can residents decorate their cottages, condos or apartments according to their personal tastes?
☐ Is the community pet friendly?
☐ Does the community have safety features, such as handrails and grab bars?
☐ Do individual residences include safety features, such as emergency alert and fire suppression systems?

RESIDENT AND STAFF INTERACTION
☐ Is the community well staffed overnight?
☐ How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?
☐ Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?
☐ Are housekeeping and laundry provided?
☐ Are transportation services available?
☐ Do caregivers interact with residents in positive ways?
☐ What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

FEES AND COSTS
☐ What services are included in the monthly fee?
☐ What services are available for an additional fee?
☐ What are the fees?
☐ How often do resident rate increases occur?
☐ Are subsidies available? How do residents qualify for subsides?
☐ Is there a waiting list?

DINING SERVICES
☐ Does the dining room look and smell inviting?
☐ Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?
☐ Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals?
☐ Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?
☐ Are three daily meals, snacks and beverages included in the monthly rate?
☐ Does the resident committee work with the dining staff to develop menus?
☐ Can the community accommodate special dietary needs?
☐ Is there a dietician or nutritionist involved in meal planning?

ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS
☐ Is there an activities program and if so, are activities scheduled throughout the day and evening?
☐ Are fitness classes offered?
☐ Are there dedicated spaces for resident clubs and informal gatherings?
☐ Does the community offer regular outings to local restaurants, theaters, museums and other destinations?
☐ Are there outdoor spaces available for walking, gardening and recreation?
☐ Are volunteer programs available?
☐ Do the residents appear engaged and energetic?

LOCATION
☐ Is there public transportation nearby?
☐ Is the community in a safe neighborhood?
☐ Are there shopping, dining and entertainment options near the community?
☐ Is the community near preferred medical providers?

OVERALL IMPRESSION
☐ Does the community look and feel like a place you could call home?
☐ Talk with residents and their family members.
☐ What do they like about the community?
☐ Can they recommend it?
☐ Did they consider other options when searching for a community?
☐ Why did they choose this community?

This article is a compilation of articles edited by Darla Kahle, DCCCI
Article portions compiled and with permission from Retirement living Sourcebook Summer/Fall 2020