There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to choosing a senior living community. Like all moves, the decision is a big one, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming to choose a new home with so many options available. The good news, though, is that when you carefully consider what lifestyle elements you value, you’ll be able to choose a community that will leave you feeling more at home than ever. With that in mind, here are the top 10 considerations to take into account when choosing a senior living community.

WayForth is your professional senior move management company. Our concierge-level solutions take care of all of your moving needs such as, downsizing, packing and unpacking, storage services, and more! To learn more about how WayForth can help you move, contact us today!

1. How is the dining experience?

They say that good food is the secret to happiness. Whether or not that’s true, there’s no getting around the fact that food is an essential part of any home. What food options do you want your new home to offer? Many communities offer dinner or lunch to guests or potential residents, so take advantage and visit to see if the food is to your taste.

2. Are there parking accommodations for car owners?

Some communities offer underground parking facilities or designated spaces that provide residents with easy access to their cars. Others don’t have designated spaces or may offer parking at a distance that requires a bit of walking. Make sure you consider how important easy car accessibility is to you when making your choice.

3. How are the campus aesthetics?

Do you prefer a sprawling campus that offers plenty of space to walk around, or would you rather enjoy the view from a high rise in the midst of a more urban setting? Senior living communities come in all shapes and sizes, so choose the one that you like most.

4. Where is the campus located?

Along with community aesthetics, consider the lifestyle and location of the community’s surrounding area. Would you prefer to have shopping options and a downtown space within walking distance, or would you rather spend your days taking in the views of a rural countryside?

5. Do you want to own or rent?

Some communities offer individual ownership options, while others simply offer renting accommodations. If you’d like to own your new home, choose accordingly.

6. Will you require a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community)?

Will the community provide continuing care for later stages in life? To qualify as a CCRC, communities must offer independent living, assisted living, and nursing care. You may not want to choose a home in a community that only offers independent or assisted living, only to be forced to relocate in the years ahead in order to transition into the next stage.

7. What activities does the community offer?

What are your hobbies? No matter where you live, it’s important that your community offers ways to stay involved in the activities you love. See what classes or activities a community offers, and consider visiting and trying out a few activities for yourself.

8. How is the current community of residents?

Your senior living community should provide you with the chance to connect to new friends and peers, so visit to see if you enjoy interacting with the current residents. Liking the people you live with is always important.

9. Is it close to your doctor?

Will you need to live in close proximity to your doctor to have your medical needs met? Then scale your search accordingly and look for communities that are within easy distance of your doctor.

10. Is it close to your friends and family?

Family and loved ones are often driving factors behind many of our life choices, and moving is no different. If it’s important to you to stay close to your family and friends, then find a community that allows you to do just that. At the end of the day, being with family is often what matters most.

What Comes Next?

Well, now that you know the top 10 considerations to take into account when choosing community, hopefully the decision-making process will feel a bit less intimidating. No matter which community you choose, though, remember to go about the process with a positive attitude. You’re not moving into a nursing home of yesteryear. In the past 15 years, senior living communities have undergone incredible transformations. There are ever-increasing options to choose from that offer beautiful architecture and vibrant community cultures. So take a look! Visit several communities to get a feel for what you prefer.

Need help moving? WayForth has served over 15,000 clients since 2016. Our complete move solutions help take the stress and hassle out of moving. Contact today to schedule a consultation!