Once you feel you have a good grasp of the differences between the types of senior living communities and the levels of assistance available at each, you can begin to get more specific in identifying the type of community which would make you most comfortable and your life more enjoyable.
If you don’t know what you are looking for it’s difficult to recognize the right senior living community when you see it. Therefore, before you even begin to call around and ask Admissions Directors the recommended questions below, take some time to do a personal inventory and ask yourself these questions:
- Why am I considering a move?
- What geographic area am I willing to consider?
- Could I use a little help in the course of the day?
- What can I afford? What are my assets and my income?
Once you have some idea of your answers, you should be ready to begin your research on area retirement communities. Here are some questions that you should ask that will help your learning process, narrow your search, and ultimately make your choice easier. Our blog is another source of good information.
1. What’s the cost?
At a Laureate Group community there are never any endowment fees. Rather, you’re simply asked to pay a monthly fee, which will vary depending upon the size of the aptartment and the level of services you require.
2. Should I pay an endowment fee or not?
There is never any endowment fee at any Laureate Group community. By virtue of not having to pay any endowment fee you’re able to keep your own assets, invest them, and increase your monthly income.
3. What kind of rent increase can I expect annually?
The Laureate Group understands that our residents are often on a fixed income. As a result we work hard to keep our increases in line with the cost of living.
4. What kind of contract am I required to sign?
All Laureate Group communities require a one-year lease for independent living – affording you the option of renewing it annually. For assisted living you would complete a one time Admission Agreement which gives you great flexibility at time of discharge.
5. What availability do you have? What size apartments do you have?
Laureate Group communities offer a wide variety of sizes and styles of apartments including studio, one and two bedroom apartments. Because availability can change frequently, it’s always advisable to call and talk with our marketing director to determine how we can best match your preferences.
6. Is there a waiting list? What’s the cost to get on it?
Laureate Group communities offer clients the option of becoming a member of their waiting list. Whether you are planning for a future move and want the reassurance of priority consideration, or are looking for a particular style or size of apartment., our waiting list can serve you well. A deposit of $500 is required, and is fully refundable should your circumstances change.
7. What happens if my health changes? What would be cause for me to move out?
Laureate Group communities are designed to meet changing health needs. Our communities offer independent living as well as several levels of assisted living, including compassionate dementia care. We welcome the opportunity to speak with each client to determine how we can meet their individual needs, and which of our communities would be best suited to them.
8. What kinds of activities are available?
At a Laureate Group community there's always something to do or some place to go. Our monthly activity calendars are packed with events including health and wellness programs, entertainment, religious services, card groups, volunteer opportunities, shopping and outings, family activities and more! In addition, our Lifelong Learning courses offer topical curriculum to develop one's inner self, explore new interests and enrich one's life.
9. What sorts of conveniences or amenities are offered?
All Laureate Group communities have a broad range of amenities including a restaurant style dining program, convenience store, banking, computer lab, wellness clinic, fitness equipment, beauty/barber shop, library, chapel and activity rooms. Having all these amenities so readily accessible you’re able to remain even more independent. And if you should ever experience a temporary or long term health set back, the convenience of these services becomes even more important in maintaining your independence.
10. Do you offer transportation and how available is it?
All Laureate Group communities offer scheduled transporation for shopping and outings and is included in the monthly fees. In addition, some communities offer personal transportation that is charged by destination.
Though it’s very helpful to get information about a senior residential community through a phone call and receiving literature in the mail, nothing replaces the experience of seeing it first hand. What’s the atmosphere like? Is the staff friendly? Do the residents appear to be happy and engaged? Does the property look well maintained and clean? Touring the community of your choice is a critical step toward making an informed and wise choice.