Determining what you’re looking for in a senior living community can help make the search go more smoothly. You’ll feel more prepared going into your tour and will likely come away with confidence, knowing you’ve made the best decision for yourself or a loved one.
Creating a list of your senior living wants and needs can also keep you focused and on task. Use our curated chart as a guide to get you started.
Senior living is a major life decision
Deciding to move to a senior living community is a significant life decision. Like buying a home, choosing a partner, or following a career path, you’ll want to ensure you have weighed the pros and cons and considered your needs before making up your mind.
Senior living is no different. Each community will likely provide the basics: meals, accommodations, activities, and supportive care. Yet, it’s essential to dive deeper into exactly what you’re looking for in a senior living community.
Where do I begin with senior living >>
Determining your senior living needs and wants
Consider the following areas as you determine your wants and needs, but feel free to add your own.
| FEATURES | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Accommodations | |||
| Personal laundry services | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Accessible spaces and lay-out | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Private bath | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Kitchenette | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Full kitchen | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Storage | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Housekeeping services | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Interior/exterior maintenance services | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Other: | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Lifestyle/Amenities | |||
| Delicious, home-cooked meals and snacks | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Outdoor spaces/walking paths | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Full calendar of activities, events, and outings | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Art classes/studio | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Access to spiritual programs | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Intergenerational activities | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Hair salon/spa | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Transportation services | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Pet-friendly | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Volunteer opportunities | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Other: | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Care Services/Wellness | |||
| 24-hour onsite nursing team | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Onsite medical care (Doctors, physical/occupational therapy, dentist, podiatrist, etc.) | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Memory care program | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Individualized care plans | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Fitness center/equipment | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Exercise classes | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Other: | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Safety/Security | |||
| Front desk coverage | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Emergency preparedness plan | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
| Other: | NEEDS | WANTS | NOT SURE |
Taking the next step: visiting communities
When you’ve completed your list of wants and needs, take the next step and set up tours of a few assisted living communities.
Be prepared with a list of questions to better understand how your loved one’s needs and preferences can be met. Ask about costs, availability, and care level options. Make sure you bring your checklist of wants and needs to mark off the boxes as you’re guided through the community.
Preparing ahead of time can give you confidence and peace of mind when choosing a community for yourself or a loved one.
Explore life at Frontida Assisted Living >>
Feel at Home at Frontida Assisted Living
Frontida Assisted Living values transparency and trust in each of our Wisconsin communities, and our team is ready to answer your questions, offer support, and provide resources to help you make a confident and informed decision for your future care.
Our compassionate team strives to create a sense of community and purpose for each resident through personalized programming, life-enriching activities, and special events.
Learn how we care for our residents:
- Private suites, bedrooms, and companion rooms
- Fully accessible bathrooms
- Spacious living rooms and engaging indoor recreation areas
- Cozy fireplaces and open-plan seating in living spaces
- Beautifully maintained outdoor areas
- Delicious, home-cooked meals and snacks
- 24-hour personal care and supervision
- Comfortable spa and salon (in specific locations)
- Dedicated memory care communities
- Specialized behavioral health care communities
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Individualized care plans
- Life Enrichment Coordinators to plan and schedule meaningful activities for all residents
- Nursing staff to oversee the health and wellness of each resident
We value honesty, trust, and open communication to build relationships with our residents and their loved ones. Together, we form a partnership to ensure your loved one lives a fulfilling life, feeling a sense of belonging and purpose.
When you’re ready, contact any of our 11 Frontida assisted living and memory care communities to gather more information, or to set up a personalized tour. We’re here for you whenever you need us.
We understand that transitioning into assisted care can be an emotional, stressful and often confusing journey. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you and your family navigate the complex world of care. Download our free “Family Decision Toolkit” to learn more.
