After making the decision to move to a retirement residence, your next step is to find the community that best fits your wants and needs. According to the Ontario Retirement Communities Association (ORCA), extensive research is key to making the best decision. By digging deep and exploring your options, you can develop a clear understanding of the location you want, the amenities and services you desire, and the overall personality you hope the residence exudes. Before deciding on a retirement home, make sure you have a good strategy and know exactly what to look for.

Here are a few tips for the research process:

1. Figure out where you want to live

Determining the geographic location of where you want to live is very important during the research process. Do you want to be located near family? Do you want to live close to your hometown or take on a new adventure in a different city? These are all very important questions to ask yourself as you explore your options for senior living.

2. Determine your priorities

When making the decision on which retirement residence is best for you, ask yourself: What is most important to me? Consider your needs and wants before choosing a senior living community. One residence might offer an amenity you desire, like a pool or walking trail, while the other may not. Additionally, does the home offer the suite type you’re interested in, or the care level you require? This may affect your eagerness to look further into a home. Make sure you determine your priorities before making any commitments.

3. Contact the residence and schedule a visit

Once you’ve done your research and narrowed it down to a few options, Senior Resource Guide suggests scheduling a visit to the homes that meet your criteria. Taking a tour will give you a first-hand look at the retirement residence, and seeing it in person may change your mind about how you feel about it. Because, at the end of the day, it is about how you feel: if you don’t get a good vibe, or a sense of home, the residence isn’t right for you. Visiting the homes you are interested in can help put all of your priorities in perspective and give you a clear understanding of the residence’s personality.

4. Ask for more information

Just because you’ve taken a tour doesn’t necessarily mean all of your questions have been answered. If you’re visiting a senior living community and you’re still unsure about a few things, ask for more information by taking a brochure or get the sales consultant’s phone number so you can follow up. Not only can this help you make a better decision, but you can leave the home with peace of mind and all of the knowledge you need to make the right choice.

Interested in learning more about a specific Chartwell retirement residence? Contact them today to schedule a tour.