When considering Independent Living communities, you may wonder: What should I ask when I call an independent senior living near me? It’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed, especially when this is a big life decision. However, knowing what questions to ask and what to expect during that first phone call can make the process much smoother. Here is a guide to preparing for your first phone call with an Independent Living community.
Prepare Ahead of Time
Before making your first phone call, it’s important to be prepared. Take a moment to think about what you need and want in an Independent Living community. Are you looking for specific amenities, like a fitness center or social activities? Or are you more concerned with the cost, location, and apartment size? Having a clear idea of your priorities will help guide the conversation and ensure you get the answers you need.
During your phone call, be sure to have a pen and paper ready to take notes. This way, you can jot down important details, like availability, pricing, and any other specific information you may need to remember. It will also be helpful to have a list of questions, so you don’t forget anything during the conversation.
What to Expect During the Call
The first phone call you make to an Independent Living community will likely begin with a general introduction. The representative will likely ask for some basic information, such as your name and whether you’re inquiring on behalf of yourself or a loved one. They will then provide an overview of the community, highlighting the types of apartments available and the services offered.
Expect them to provide a general description of their community’s features and amenities. For example, they may mention dining options, housekeeping services, transportation, and social activities available to residents. While this initial conversation is usually brief, it’s important to take mental notes of the key points so that you can follow up with more specific questions later.
Ask About Availability and Cost
A major factor in choosing an Independent Living community is availability and cost. Start by asking about the availability of units. You’ll want to know whether there are apartments ready for immediate move-in or if you’ll need to join a waiting list.
Some retirement communities may have immediate openings, while others may have a longer wait time, depending on the demand. Cost is another important factor that you’ll want to clarify early on. Ask about the pricing structure and if there are any additional fees you should be aware of.
Some retirement communities may require an upfront deposit or an entrance fee, while others may only charge a monthly rent. It’s also important to ask if utilities are included in the rent or if you’ll be responsible for paying them separately. Understanding all of these details upfront can help you make an informed decision.
Inquire About Activities and Amenities
Independent Living communities often offer a variety of resort-style amenities and activities designed to promote a healthy, active lifestyle. When making your first phone call, ask about the types of activities and amenities available to residents. For example, many retirement communities offer exercise programs, art classes, and social events to encourage residents to stay engaged.
You may also want to ask about the dining options. Some Independent Living communities have on-site restaurants that serve meals throughout the day, while others offer meal delivery services or have communal kitchens for residents to use. Understanding what services are included can help you determine if the community fits your lifestyle.
Understand the Next Steps
After gathering the basic information, it’s important to ask about the next steps. Will you need to schedule a tour of the community to see the apartments in person? Many Independent Living communities encourage prospective residents to visit the community to get a feel for the environment.
A tour will give you the chance to see the facilities firsthand, ask questions in person, and meet staff members. In addition, ask if there’s an application process you’ll need to follow or if there’s any paperwork required before moving forward. It’s important to know exactly what’s expected of you, so you can plan accordingly.
By now, you should feel more confident about making that first phone call to inquire about independent senior living near Columbus, GA. With the right questions and a clear understanding of what you’re looking for, you can gather all the information you need to make a decision. Contact our Independent Living community today to get started.
