10 Smart Questions to Ask When Touring an Assisted or Memory Care Community
Why asking questions matters
When you tour a community, the brochure and website can only tell part of the story. The details matter. As one resource explains, a solid tour is about “what life in the community is really like.” onelifeseniorliving.com+1 You’re the hero—but you don’t have to wander blind. Horizon Advisors guides you with the right questions.
Top 10 questions you should ask
Staff training & ratio: What dementia-specific or assisted-living training do caregivers get? How many staff per resident overnight? northpointewoods.org
Safety & security: Are doors secured? Are outdoor areas enclosed? How are emergency calls handled?
Care transitions: If your loved one’s condition worsens, how does the community respond?
Daily routine & activities: What does a typical day look like? Are residents engaged, not isolated? Arbor Company
Family communication: How will you be updated? How is your loved one’s story included in care?
Cost transparency: What’s included, what’s extra, and how is it billed? Arden Courts Memory Care
Living spaces & personalization: Can you bring meaningful items? Will their room feel like “home”?
Health & wellness services: Are nurses on-site? How are medications managed? Seniorly
Shift turnover & culture: Do staff stay long-term? Do residents seem comfortable?
Trial/respite options: Can you try-stay? What happens if your loved one doesn’t adjust well?
How Horizon Advisors helps
We join tours when possible, bring a checklist, interpret your observations, and compare communities side by side. You don’t walk the path alone.
Because you’re the hero: caring for your loved one. We’re your guide.
From questions to clarity. We’ll help you ask the right ones.
