Finding the right assisted living facility for a loved one is one of the most important and emotionally complex decisions families make. Touring in person gives you a clearer understanding of the community, the care, and the overall “feel” of a place. This printable checklist is here to guide you through that process with compassion, clarity, and structure.
We’ve broken the checklist down into major areas to observe and inquire about during your visit.
📌 Before the Tour: What to Bring & Prepare
- A notebook or printed checklist (like this one!)
- A list of your loved one’s care needs
- A copy of medications and dietary restrictions
- Questions you’ve already thought of (write them below):
🏠 First Impressions
| Question | Notes |
| Is the exterior well-kept and accessible? | |
| Are the grounds safe, walkable, and inviting? | |
| Does the facility feel welcoming upon entry? | |
| How are you greeted by staff at the front desk? | |
| Is the temperature comfortable? | |
| Does it smell clean (not overly perfumed)? |
Observe:
- Residents’ expressions do they look engaged and well cared for?
- Staff tone and body language are they kind and attentive?
👥 Staff & Care Quality
- Are caregivers available 24/7?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- Do caregivers receive ongoing training? On what topics?
- Are staff background-checked and licensed?
- How does the facility handle emergencies or falls?
- Is there a registered nurse (RN) or physician on-site or on-call?
- What’s the plan for medication management?
- How are health records maintained and shared with families?
📚 Learn more about staffing standards from the National Institute on Aging
🛏️ Resident Living Spaces
| Feature | Yes/No | Notes |
| Private or shared room options | ||
| Clean and in good condition | ||
| Emergency alert system in room | ||
| Accessible bathroom (grab bars, walk-in shower) | ||
| Storage space for personal belongings | ||
| Option to bring personal furniture/decor |
Ask:
- Are rooms personalized or standardized?
- What’s the process if a resident wants to change rooms?
🍽️ Dining & Nutrition
- Are meals prepared fresh daily?
- Are menu options reviewed by a dietitian?
- How are dietary restrictions accommodated?
- Can you observe or taste a meal?
- Is the dining environment social and pleasant?
- Are meals served at set times, or is there flexibility?
📘 Explore senior nutrition tips from the USDA
🎯 Activities & Social Life
- Is there a posted calendar of events?
- What types of activities are offered (arts, fitness, outings)?
- Are there religious or spiritual services available?
- Do residents seem engaged?
- Are there options for residents who prefer quieter settings?
- Are visitors allowed to join activities?
🚐 Transportation & Services
| Service | Offered? | Notes |
| Scheduled transportation to doctor visits | ||
| Transportation for shopping or social events | ||
| On-site hair salon or barber | ||
| Housekeeping/laundry included | ||
| Therapy services (physical, occupational) |
💬 Communication & Family Involvement
- How often are families updated about health or behavior changes?
- Is there a family portal or app for updates?
- Are family members involved in care planning?
- Are there regular family meetings or events?
📌 Tip: Ask how the facility handled COVID-19 or flu outbreaks and how they communicate with families during emergencies.
💵 Costs & Contracts
| Item | Notes |
| Monthly base rate | |
| Services included in base rate | |
| Additional fees (care levels, transportation, etc.) | |
| Is there a community fee or deposit? | |
| Medicaid/Medicare eligibility or partnerships? |
📄 Check Medicaid eligibility for assisted living by state
✅ Final Checklist: What Matters Most to You
Check the boxes below that are most important for your loved one:
- ☐ Kind, engaged staff
- ☐ Safe and clean environment
- ☐ Nutritious meals and flexible dining
- ☐ Activities that match interests
- ☐ Medical care availability
- ☐ Easy family communication
- ☐ Affordability and transparency
- ☐ A “good feeling” when visiting
Write your gut impression:
“This place feels like ________________________.”
💡 A Gentle Reminder for Families
Choosing an assisted living facility is not just a checklist task it’s an emotional journey. As you walk through hallways, chat with residents, or sit down for lunch, ask yourself: Can I picture my loved one thriving here?
It’s okay to take your time, revisit, and even bring a friend or another family member to help you process everything. This isn’t just about services and features. It’s about finding a place that feels like home.
❤️ You’re doing something hard and incredibly important and you're not alone.
