Quick answer
On an assisted living tour, look at how staff and residents interact, the cleanliness and smell, the apartment and bathroom, the dining room and food, and activities in progress. Ask about staffing day and night, how care levels are priced, rate increases, and what would require a move out. Get the price list and contract to take home. (800) 614-8388 if you'd like help setting up tours.
Before you go
- Write down your parent's care needs and budget.
- Ask for the price list and a sample contract ahead of time.
- Plan to visit at a mealtime or during an activity.
- Bring this list and a pen, or a phone for notes and photos.
Look around
- Staff greet residents by name and speak kindly.
- Residents are up, dressed and engaged.
- Common areas are clean and fresh-smelling.
- Hallways are well lit, with handrails.
- Apartments have a step-in shower, grab bars and call system.
- Outdoor space is easy and safe to use.
- The dining room is pleasant; the food looks and tastes good.
Ask about care and staff
- How many care staff are on duty in the day, evening and overnight?
- Is a nurse on site? When?
- Who manages medications?
- How quickly are call buttons answered?
- How is a new resident's care plan set and updated?
- What care needs can't you meet?
Ask about cost and contract
- What's the monthly rent, and what's the care charge for my parent?
- What's included, and what costs extra?
- What are the move-in fees? Refundable?
- How much have rates gone up the last few years?
- What notice is needed to move out?
- Do you accept Medicaid, now or later?
Ask residents and families
- Do you like living here? What would you change?
- How is the food?
- Do staff come when you call?
After the tour
- Write down your impressions the same day.
- Ask the state for recent inspection reports.
- Return for an unannounced visit to your top choice.
- Read the contract carefully before paying a deposit.
Want help planning tours?
We'll help you pick communities to tour and what to ask each one. Free.
Questions families ask
How long does an assisted living tour take?
Plan on about an hour, and longer if you stay for a meal.
Can we stay for a meal?
Many communities welcome it. Ask when you book.
What should I bring on a tour?
This checklist, your parent's list of care needs, and a list of medications if you want to ask about specific care.
Should we visit more than once?
Yes. A second visit at a different time, unannounced if possible, shows you more.