Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it may seem daunting to find and enter into a senior living community. Most senior living communities offer virtual tours, which is a safe option to view the community from the comfort of your home.
Although virtual tours can be a great alternative, it may be difficult to fully get a feel for a community through a screen. The best way to get the most out of your virtual tour is to be prepared with questions that will help you learn as much as possible about the community you are touring.
Below are some questions to ask during a virtual tour to help you get a genuine feel for the residents, culture, and lifestyle of a community.
Can I speak with some residents virtually?
There is no better way to learn about a senior living community than speaking with the residents! You can ask residents why they love the senior living community, how they feel about different aspects of the community, etc. The current residents have gone through what you are going through right now, so they will know what information is important in this decision. Additionally, meeting a resident before even arriving can help make the transition smoother and less scary.
What protocols are in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
Many seniors and their loved ones may have fears or concerns regarding entering a senior living community during the COVID-19 pandemic. The community should be able to clearly provide and describe its safety and communication protocols in order to put any of these feelings at ease.
What are the activity options right now?
As we are in a time of social distancing and limited social interaction, it is important to ask about what activity options exist-- whether outdoor, virtual, or other possible options. While activities may look different than before the pandemic, senior living communities may still offer a good amount of activities.
Can I taste the food?
As you are taking a virtual tour, it may seem impossible to taste the food, but this is often not the case. Many senior living communities offer meal delivery or pick up options as a safe and easy way to try the food. After all, it’s important you enjoy the food you’ll be eating!
