Navigating Retirement: A Guide to Touring Senior Living Communities

Tom and Sarah, aged 72, are ready to swap their hustle and bustle and snow-shoveling days in Long Island, New York for the stunning beaches and scenic landscapes of southwest Florida. After years of hard work and weekends dreaming of retirement, they want an active lifestyle filled with sun-soaked days, abundant coastline, and pleasant year-round weather.

As they begin to explore senior living communities in the Naples area, they face a myriad of questions and considerations. From weighing amenities and services to asking the right questions about future care options, Tom and Sarah are determined to find the right place to live their dream retirement.

In this blog, we’ll discuss what to look for when touring a 55+ community, questions to ask independent living facilities and senior living frequently asked questions. Plus, we’ll spotlight how The Glenview at Pelican Bay in Naples goes above and beyond to cater to the needs of seniors seeking upscale coastal retirement in southwest Florida.

What To Look For When Touring a 55+ Community

When exploring senior living options to find your perfect fit, there are many factors to weigh. From luxurious amenities to personalized services to future care needs and resident life, here are some things to consider during your search.

1. Location: Check how close the community is to the people, places, essentials, and activities that matter most to you—cultural experiences, recreational activities, dining, grocery stores, medical professionals, and shopping.
2. Residences: Look at the living arrangements available, considering factors such as size, layout, and potential for customization. At The Glenview, you can choose from 18 different apartment and penthouse floor plans and custom-design your interior.
3. Perks and pampering: Assess the amenities, services, and residence features and finishes to see if they align with your wants, needs, and lifestyle. Pay attention to the overall atmosphere, cleanliness, and maintenance of the community.
4. Culture: Watch how residents interact with each other and with staff members. Note the energy within common areas, the upkeep of shared spaces, and the diversity of events offered.
5. Health services: Evaluate the community’s continuum-of-care offerings. The Glenview’s award-winning healthcare center, Premier Place, provides comprehensive care onsite, from physical therapy to long-term skilled care. GlenCare Home Care is another convenient service, that provides personalized in-home care.
6. Resident insight: Chat with current residents and ask them about their experiences living in the community. What do they like most? Are there any areas for improvement?

Senior Living Frequently Asked Questions

Preparing a list of questions to ask senior living facilities when you tour communities is helpful. Here are some common senior living FAQs and answers to help guide you:

1. What do some of the awards and certifications mean?

Awards granted to senior living communities from credible sources serve as valuable resources, fill informational voids, bolster credibility, and help seniors and their families make informed choices. Look for designations from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and quality ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. At The Glenview, we’re proud of the top honors we’ve received in independent living, skilled nursing, home care, and resident and family satisfaction.

2. What are the different kinds of senior living contracts?

Senior living contracts can vary, but options may include rental agreements, LifeCare, or fee-for-service arrangements. The Glenview is Florida’s only equity-ownership LifeCare community. This means a resident owns their apartment home and reaps the benefit of appreciated value over time – in other words, your money is still working for you. Additionally, equity ownership means residents may qualify for tax deductions for property tax and medical expenses. Residents continue homeownership with all the perks and privileges of owning a home in Pelican Bay. As controlling members, residents participate in community decision-making and have access to comprehensive care.

3. What is included in the monthly fee?

The Glenview’s all-inclusive monthly fee encompasses luxurious resort-style amenities and personal services. These include a state-of-the-art fitness center with wellness programs, gourmet dining experiences, housekeeping, maintenance services, and scheduled transportation. Engaging activities, social events, lifelong learning opportunities, and live entertainment further enrich our vibrant community.

4. Who should go with me to look at senior living communities?

Bring someone whose opinion you trust and who knows your preferences and needs—whether it’s your spouse, adult children, friends, siblings, or a trusted advisor. During your visits, they can offer emotional support, valuable insights, and questions you hadn’t considered.

5. What’s the best way to get a feel for a community?

Immerse yourself in the environment. Plan a guided community experience to explore the grounds, amenities, and living spaces. If possible, join in on any scheduled activities or events during your visit. Consider staying for lunch or dinner to sample the food and observe mealtime dynamics.

6. What are your different care levels and offerings?

Many senior living communities offer various healthcare services, from independent living and assisted living to memory care and skilled nursing. Determine which levels of care are available and how they align with your current and future needs.

7. How do I get my partner on board about moving to senior living?

Start by having an open and honest conversation about your concerns and desires. Listen to their perspective and address any fears or objections. Research different senior living options together and emphasize the benefits, such as social engagement and relief from household chores. Visit communities to experience firsthand what they offer. Be patient and understanding, giving your partner time to adjust to the idea.

The Glenview blends small-town allure and coastal treasures with big-city vitality and cultural amenities. Our community has everything you need to make retirement life as fulfilling as you hoped. Contact us to arrange a visit to discover more about our wealth of offerings.