What to Look for During a Tour of an Assisted Living Facility

Touring an assisted living facility is one of the most important steps in choosing care for your loved one. It’s the moment when brochures and websites become real — and it gives you a chance to ask questions, watch how staff interact with residents, and see if the place feels like home.

This guide gives you a clear list of what to look for during your visit. It also includes the top questions to ask staff, and signs that show whether a facility is well-run and safe.

Before You Go: Know Your Priorities

Start by making a list of what matters most to your family. Some families need help with medication or memory care. Others focus on daily meals, social life, or just a peaceful place close to home.

Ask yourself:

• What level of help does my loved one need daily?

• How far am I willing to travel for visits?

• What can we afford monthly?

Knowing this helps you stay focused during the tour.

For local pricing help, check out this detailed guide: Assisted Living Cost in Springfield, MO 2025

What to Look For When Touring the Facility

Here’s a checklist to help you spot signs of quality care.

1. Cleanliness and Maintenance

Pay attention to:

• Clean common areas, restrooms, and hallways

• No strong odors or clutter

• Well-kept outdoor spaces

• Proper lighting and handrails in halls

Tip: Look behind furniture and in corners — is it clean, or just surface tidy?

2. Staff Behavior

Watch how the staff act, not just how they speak. Are they:

• Friendly and respectful toward residents?

• Wearing name tags and uniforms?

• Making eye contact and using first names?

Good care starts with a good team. If staff seem rushed or cold, take note.

3. Resident Life

Observe the residents during your tour:

• Do they seem active and happy?

• Are people chatting or involved in activities?

• Do they look well-groomed and dressed?

If the community seems quiet or tense, it could be a red flag.

4. Safety Features

Check for basic safety systems, such as:

• Emergency call buttons in rooms and bathrooms

• Secure entries and exits

• Wide, clear walkways with grab bars

• Fire exits clearly marked

Ask about their fall prevention and emergency protocols.

5. Dining and Food Quality

Ask if you can peek into the kitchen or see the current menu. Good questions include:

• Can residents choose from a menu?

• Are special diets supported (diabetes, low-sodium)?

• What are the meal times and snacks policies?

Ask if you can return for a meal trial visit before making your final decision.

6. Activities and Social Life

Ask about:

• Daily activities and weekend events

• Options for different interests (games, outings, fitness, hobbies)

• Spiritual services or holiday celebrations

You can also ask to view a current activity calendar or speak with the activity coordinator.

7. Apartment Options

Tour at least two room types if possible. Take note of:

• Room size and layout

• Natural light and furniture setup

• Closet and storage space

• Accessibility features (no-step showers, grab bars)

Ask if residents can bring their own furniture or decorate the room to their taste.

To see how a warm, home-style setting looks at its best, view the Close to Paradise Gallery.

Questions to Ask During the Tour

Don’t be afraid to take notes or ask for clarification. Here are key questions to ask the staff:

1. What kind of medical care is available on-site?

2. How is medication managed?

3. What is your staff-to-resident ratio?

4. What training do caregivers receive?

5. Are background checks required for staff?

6. Can residents age in place or transition to memory care here?

7. How are care plans updated if my loved one’s needs change?

The answers can reveal how prepared the facility is for both daily life and future care needs.

Questions About Costs and Contracts

You’ll want to understand:

• What’s included in the monthly cost?

• Are there extra fees for meals, transportation, or care services?

• What happens if a resident needs to move to a higher level of care?

• Is there a deposit or community fee?

• What is the refund policy?

Every detail matters. Be sure to ask for a copy of the contract or agreement to review at home.

Red Flags to Watch For

These signs may suggest deeper problems:

• Unhappy or quiet residents

• Unanswered call lights

• Dirty floors or smells in shared areas

• Staff who avoid eye contact or rush your questions

• Missing licenses or expired health department reports

Trust your gut. If the place doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

After the Tour: What to Do Next

Take time to reflect. Ask yourself:

• Did it feel like a place my loved one would enjoy?

• Was the staff welcoming and informed?

• Could I picture this being “home”?

Compare notes with other family members. If you need to visit again, don’t hesitate to schedule a second tour — especially at a different time of day.

You can also check out other Missouri locations to compare: Locations We Serve

Final Thoughts

Touring an assisted living facility is about more than just looks — it’s about comfort, care, and peace of mind. A great tour will leave you feeling informed, not pressured. Use this checklist, ask honest questions, and take your time.

Choosing a facility is a big decision, but with the right steps, you can find a place that feels safe, warm, and supportive.