Using Your Five Senses When Touring a Retirement Community: Part 2

Part 2 of 5: Listen

You have an idea of what the community looks like and now it is time to listen.  Is what you hear pleasing to the ear?

How are staff members communicating with the residents?  Are they compassionate or demanding?

Do the residents seem to be enjoying themselves or are you hearing a lot of complaints? (Ask a few of the residents about their experiences at the community…they are usually more than willing to share their experiences with you)

Are staff members introducing themselves to you?

Does the community view themselves as a ‘facility’ or a ‘community’?