Kate Prior
Environment
- Is the scale right? (Do you prefer someplace homey and cozy with a dozen or so residents, or a sleek high-rise with 100residents?)
- Is the place immaculate?
- Are the rooms relatively soundproof?
- Are there beautiful views and outdoor spaces?
Staffing
- How high is the turnover rate? Constantly havingto adapt to new staff is both disorienting and depressing, not to mentioninefficient.
- Is there someone onhand who will gladly help with heavy chores or minor repairs?
- Is the food good, nutritious, and varied?
Services & Costs
- Are there separate feesfor care and for roomand board?
- Are utilities included in the monthly fee?
- Is transportation readily available, and does it cost? Are provisions made for voting? For religious services?
- Is there a housekeeping fee? Do you have to clean your own suite? What are the laundry facilities?
- Is Wi-Fi available for internet connection and streaming? Is there cable? Are there fees?
Community Life
- Are there rigid rules and expectations (“Everybody up! Chair yoga at 7 a.m.!”)?
- Do the residents seem congenial? Stay overnight and see what the atmosphere’s like.
- Are there pleasant waysto host guests?
- How are holidayscelebrated?
- Are the outings and group activities appealing?
- Are efforts made to include and accommodate residents who are losing sight or hearing, mobility or memory?
- Do you detect any hints of bias (against your race, religion, ethnic background, sexual orientation, whatever)? Is this a place in which you’ll feel wholly accepted and welcome?
Personal Life
- Are you allowed to decorate your own room or suite? Bring your own furniture? Garden, if you like?
- Do the atmosphere and services match your taste and priorities rather than those of your family members?
- Is the location appealing (peaceful and green, if you want serenity, or close to bustling restaurants and street life, if you prefer that)?
- Is it OK to eat in your room? Are customized meals for special diets possible? Are meal times flexible? Show up unexpectedly for a few taste tests.
- Are you basing your choice on the life you have now, and what will matter in the coming years, rather than the life you had 20 years ago?
Health, Safety & Solvency
- How solid is the security? Are fire, storm, and other emergency plans in place?
- Is the owner financially solvent? Have complaints been lodged with the Better Business Bureau?
- Are there basic medical services such as flu shots, a doctor on call, prescription assistance?
- If you’re recovering from a minor medical procedure, will staff check on you and help with aftercare? What will they not take responsibility for?
