The Ultimate Checklist for Touring a Senior Living Center in Scottsdale

Elder woman in a senior assisted living houseChoosing a senior living center in Scottsdale is a big decision. With so many options—from assisted living to memory care—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed during tours.

This step-by-step checklist ensures you don’t overlook critical details when visiting communities. Print it or save it on your phone to compare facilities objectively.

Before Your Tour: Preparation Checklist

  1. Identify Care Needs
    • Does your loved one require help with bathing, medication, or mobility?
    • Is memory care (for dementia/Alzheimer’s) needed?
  2. Budget & Costs
    • Scottsdale’s average assisted living cost: 4,500–7,000/month (higher for luxury communities).
    • Ask if pricing is all-inclusive or à la carte.
  3. Location Priorities
    • Proximity to family, hospitals (e.g., HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn), or preferred neighborhoods.
  4. Schedule Tours
    • Visit at least 3 communities to compare.
    • Tour during meal times to observe food quality and social atmosphere.

During Your Tour: 25-Point Evaluation Checklist

 

1. First Impressions

  • Cleanliness: No odors, tidy common areas.
  • Staff Friendliness: Do they greet residents by name?
  • Safety: Handrails, emergency call systems, well-lit hallways.

2. Living Spaces

  • Apartment Options: Private vs. shared rooms; natural light.
  • Bathroom Safety: Walk-in showers, grab bars.
  • Personalization: Can residents bring furniture/decor?

3. Care & Medical Support

  • Staff-to-Resident Ratio: Ask for specifics (e.g., 1:8 during day, 1:12 at night).
  • Medication Management: Is there a licensed nurse on-site?
  • Emergency Protocols: How are falls or health crises handled?

4. Dining & Nutrition

  • Menu Variety: Ask for a sample menu (special diets accommodated?).
  • Mealtime Experience: Are residents socializing? Is staff assisting those who need help?

5. Activities & Social Life

  • Calendar of Events: Exercise classes, outings, religious services.
  • Resident Engagement: Are activities well-attended?

6. Memory Care (If Needed)

  • Secure Environment: Locked doors, wander-prevention measures.
  • Specialized Staff: Trained in dementia care techniques.

7. Costs & Contracts

  • Fee Breakdown: What’s included? Any hidden costs (e.g., level-of-care fees)?
  • Price Increases: How often do rates rise? By what % historically?

Key Questions to Ask Staff

  1. “What’s your staff turnover rate?” (High turnover = inconsistent care.)
  2. “Can we see your latest state inspection report?” (Check for violations.)
  3. “How do you handle family complaints?”
  4. “What’s your policy on resident hospitalizations?” (Is the bed held during rehab?)

After the Tour: Next Steps

  1. Talk to Residents & Families: Ask for references.
  2. Review Contracts Carefully: Look for discharge policies, refund terms.
  3. Trust Your Gut: Did the community feel warm and attentive?

Why Choose Senior Valley Assisted Living in Scottsdale?

At Senior Valley, we welcome families to use this checklist when touring our community. We pride ourselves on:
✔ Transparent pricing with no surprise fees
✔ High staff-to-resident ratios for personalized care
✔ Engaging activities tailored to mobility and cognitive levels

Click here to schedule a tour!

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