The interview is the first step in choosing the right retirement home.
You might go alone to the first interview where the first question often will be where are you currently living and why do you want to move.
Procedures for some communities may differ slightly, but usually family members will join you for the second interview when you learn of entrance requirements, provide required documents and review the activity calendar. Then you and your family will take a tour of the apartment and the common areas.
Some of the questions you may want to ask follow:
• Do I meet the financial requirements?
• How much will it cost me to live here each month?
• Do I have a choice in meal programs?
• How many employees do you have for how many residents?
• What activities do you offer?
• What are the rules regarding visitors and pets?
• What am I allowed to bring?
• Who will decide when I have to move out?
At the end of the interview you should feel that you understand the requirements for living in the community. You also should know how long the application process will take. You will probably need to sign many pages at the conclusion of the interview. Most of these are for the purpose of giving the staff permission to continue the application process.
Most people are bound to have feelings of uncertainty. If you know some of the residents beforehand, this should be a big plus in helping you adjust to a brand new environment. Get involved immediately. Don’t wait to unpack and get completely settled. Hang the pictures later as you get out and meet new friends.