The 5 steps to senior living, plus expert insights about what to expect along the way.

When your family begins a senior living journey, the path ahead is full of choices to make. Knowing what to expect can help simplify the process, so that even when there are bumps along the way, you’ll know you’re on the right path.

From the first inquiry to move-in day, this guide walks you through each of the five steps to senior living, with expert insights at each step to support you and your loved one.

Step 1. Researching and Inquiring About Senior Living Communities

Most people narrow down their list of senior living communities by reading reviews, and asking friends, medical professionals, and other people they trust.

Once your list is narrowed down, it’s time to set up a visit. Whether you’re just starting your research or time is of the essence, seeing the community in person is an important step. There’s nothing like experiencing a community first-hand, and interacting with staff and residents.

How to Schedule a Visit at a Senior Living Community

You can schedule a visit by calling communities or filling out a contact form on the community’s website. (We’re happy to do all the scheduling by email if you prefer – we get that not everyone likes being on the phone.)

Expert insight: It’s okay to be unsure whether senior living is the right choice when you inquire. In fact, we recommend inquiring early, before there’s an emergency. Give yourself the gift of time, so that you don’t have to make a big decision under pressure. (Plus, some communities have wait lists.)

Step 2. Tours and Visits: What to Expect on a Tour of a Senior Living Community

Many people’s first interaction with a senior living community is a scheduled visit and tour.

The visit and tour will start with a conversation about your loved one’s needs and preferences, and what your family is looking for in a community. The advisor will ask about your loved one’s best days and their worst, to make sure you get the right-fit community. This conversation is private; it’s okay to be candid.

After the conversation, you’ll see the community: common areas like dining rooms and lounges, special features like a gym and outdoor space, and the apartments. Depending on the time of day, you may see many residents moving around the community and activities in progress.

We encourage taking notes – it’s a lot of information, especially if you’re visiting several communities.

What questions should you ask when touring a senior living community? Find out here.

At the end of the visit, we’ll go over the next steps, but there is never pressure to decide right away. Choosing a senior living community is a big decision, and many families return for additional tours with other family members or decision-makers.

And, if you know after the first visit that it’s not the right fit, we are happy to act as a resource and point you in the right direction for your loved one.

Tours and Visits with Your Loved One

Many families make their initial visits to senior living communities themselves, then bring their loved one back to see their favorites. You’re welcome back for more tours, and for your loved one to join other residents in the dining room for lunch.

How do you know when you’ve found “the one?” Here’s what makes a senior living community feel like home.

Expert Insight: When talking about a loved one’s situation, many people feel that they should present their loved one in the best light possible. However, it’s more important to give the whole picture. We’re on your team, and when we have more information, we can better (and more quickly) meet your loved one’s needs.

Step 3. Comparisons: Making the Decision

If you feel overwhelmed comparing senior living communities, you’re not alone. The process can be emotional and there is a lot of information to take in.

It’s important to ask the right questions while you’re visiting, and follow up if anything is unclear. We’re here to answer questions by phone, in person, and online – not just about Sunnyside Manor but about senior living in general.

Expert Insight: There’s a reason why comparing communities may feel difficult: each community has its own definition of care levels. For example, “level 2 care” doesn’t mean the same thing at every community. One community’s level 2 may be equivalent to another community’s level 4. So, if you’re unsure, please call or email to clarify – these are the kinds of questions we’re here to answer.

What is level 2 care? Find answers to frequently asked questions about assisted living. 

Step 4. Assessment: What is a senior living assessment?

The assessment is an important step between choosing a community and a smooth transition for your loved one. A nurse from the senior living community will have an in-person appointment with your loved one to clarify their care needs and gain a complete understanding of their current health.

The assessment can be in our community, at your loved one’s home, or in a care setting if your loved one is being discharged from a hospital or rehabilitation center.

Expert Insight: If your loved one is moving from far away, an in-person assessment may not be possible. Each community will have their own process for facilitating long-distance moves, so be sure to ask.

Step 5: Senior Living Move-In & Adjustment

Leading up to move-in day, we’ll coordinate with your loved one’s physicians to ensure we have their records and medications. (Can your loved one keep their same doctors? The answer is yes, and you’ll find more answers to frequently asked questions about senior living transitions here.)

As move-in day approaches, our move-in coordinator steps in to make sure the process goes smoothly. Our staff will be here to help place furniture, hang pictures, and get the details just right. Plus, we can recommend movers, move coordinators, and other service providers who are familiar with senior living moves.  

We also have plenty of guides on our blog – from downsizing to deciding what to bring to helping your loved one adjust – to help you prepare and know what to expect.

Expert Insight: There will be an adjustment period for your loved one, and for you, too. Take time to adjust, as you and your loved one settle in and start to enjoy new routines and experiences.

When you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to talk. Call us at 888-696-2052 or contact us here.

Learn More About Why Families Rely On Sunnyside Manor

When you have questions about senior living, we are here to help. Sunnyside Manor offers assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Learn more about Sunnyside Manor’s resources for caregivers. Whether you’re looking for short-term support or a longer-term plan, begin with our “Getting Started” guide. Please call us at 888-696-2052 to speak with a senior living expert.

Sunnyside Manor, located in Wall NJ, is the area’s premier family-owned senior living community. The community features three distinctive neighborhoods: Independence ‘Plus’ Assisted Living, Recollections Memory Care, and Long-Term Care & Short-Term Rehabilitation. Respite stays and palliative care are available in all neighborhoods.