Listed below are some helpful hints on what to look for when you tour a Retirement Community. As you are touring, remember that it is not just a beautiful décor that counts, but the over all lifestyle. If you have questions or would like us to arrange a tour, call us 713-235-1822

Tip #1: Active Residents Are Happy Residents
The best way to get a feel for any community that you visit is to talk with the people who already live there.  View the community events calendar to see if they match your loved one's interests. Look for small and large group activities, trips or outings. Inquire about religious activities, such as bible studies, if this is important.

Tip #2: Service With A Smile
Staff attitude and friendliness are extremely important when choosing a retirement community. Observe the staff interacting with residents. Do they listen and make eye contact? If you feel welcomed while you tour, so will your loved one. Are the directors willing and available to meet with you?

Tip #3: Clean And Well Maintained?
Is the community fresh and clean? Look past the community's furnishings and into corners, baseboards, and windows. Odors may indicate lack of cleanliness or a temporary problem that was caused by recent incident. If you find odors in a concentrated area of the community this may indicate a single incident. Odors throughout the community are likely to indicate a problem. Ask what they believe to be the problem before proceeding. Ask how often housekeeping will be provided in the apartment home. What services does maintenance provide? What is their response time?

Tip #4: Safe And Sound
You should have peace of mind knowing that everything is safe and sound. Ask about staffing to understand who will be on-site to respond in the event of an emergency. Are there licensed nurses on staff or just nursing assistants? Is there any security during off-hours? How does a resident contact staff if they have an emergency in their apartment home? Are the bathrooms accessible and do they have grab bars in convenient locations? What other safety features are available throughout the community?

Tip #5: A Dining Experience
The dining room appearance and menu are of utmost importance. Discuss entrée variety and ask to view a sample menu. Inquire about dining hours and guest procedures. Ask if it would be possible to have lunch or dinner in the dining room.

Tip #6: Community Grounds
Are there accessible and safe areas around the community for walking? Do they have a courtyard, recreational areas or outdoor dining area? Do they have areas for residents to garden? What types of outdoor activities are available? Find out if the staff uses the same outdoor areas for breaks.

Tip #7: Trust your instincts
As you're touring, can you imagine you and / or your loved one living there and being comfortable? Did you feel at ease while touring? Was the staff friendly and inviting? Follow your instincts and your heart.