You could be among the millions of people in 55+ communities in Dallas, TX who are thinking about making the move to a retirement community. Going on tours of some of the houses or apartments that catch your eye is one of the most efficient ways to obtain the information you need. While you are experiencing the neighborhood and everything they have to provide, make sure you are collecting as much information as you possibly can. You’ll be able to make an informed decision about the independent living community that’s best for you and steer clear of places that aren’t a good fit for you if you ask the correct questions. We asked a few of the residents how they came to the conclusion that moving here was the best option for them and what kinds of information were beneficial to them as they looked at the community.
How Close to Home Could This Feel?
Naturally, any neighborhood will feel different than your current one, but isn’t that the whole point? If you’re tired of the duties that come with being a homeowner, it may be time for a change. You should never give up the feeling of being at home. While on the tour, try to picture yourself at the house. Try to picture what your typical day would be like if you were a resident of this area. Consider whether you could see yourself making this place your permanent residence. Will my friends and family feel welcome here? The majority of us have a plan for how we want our lives to go. Don’t be shy about inquiring about any particular services or features, such as guest rooms, pet policies, or on-site eating, that may be of interest to you.
What Are my Dining Options?
During your visit to the neighborhood, you should be able to try the many food options offered so you can evaluate how well they match your needs. You should ask yourself important questions such as, “Do I feel like I want to be eating this every day?” or “How likely is it that I’ll want to make this my regular dining spot?” and maybe “To what extent do I have the freedom to eat whenever I please, like in a restaurant?” Most senior living communities don’t have chef-driven restaurants with a rotating menu and convenient hours, but they do have dining rooms with regular hours. Depending on your situation, you may want to inquire about the restaurant’s hours and whether or not you have free reign on when and where you dine.
What Sets This Community Different From Others?
You may start to see certain patterns when you explore different living communities. Most of them have places to eat and things to do. When comparing similar properties, however, it is often the intangible qualities that make the difference. While you’re there, you might find yourself wondering, “Can I get this experience or lifestyle anywhere else?” Alternatively, what makes this neighborhood special compared to others? Feel free to reflect on your impressions of the property and its setting. When trying to figure out if a community has anything to offer that you won’t find anywhere else, it can be beneficial to ask about the community’s unique amenities, such as entertainment venues, or educational programs that are available there.
