The holidays are that special time when we gather with family from near and far, exchange gifts and holiday cards, and fill our homes with cheerful decorations. But what about adding another holiday activity to your list of festivities? If you have a loved one who’s considering a move to a senior living community — or if your holiday visit has made you realize that your loved one may need the extra support available in a senior living community — this is the perfect time of year to tour communities in your area. If that surprises you, here are the reasons touring senior living communities during the holidays makes sense:
It’s a Family Affair
It’s essential to visit senior living communities in person, so you can truly get a sense of the atmosphere, the residents and staff, and whether a community would make a comfortable, inviting home. With family gathered from out of town, this is a perfect opportunity to get everyone involved in the decision-making process — the more the merrier! You’ll have people to compare notes with, talking over the pros and cons of each community. And your loved one will feel supported — and maybe more confident — in making this change when they know they have the backing and help of the whole family.
The Expansive Holiday Spirit
Senior living communities get into the spirit of the season just like the rest of us. Festive décor, holiday activities, and social events give communities — and the smiles of staff and residents — some extra sparkle. That good cheer can brim over into easy approachability, so during your visit your loved one may even make a friend or two before they move in. And if you join in a community holiday event, your loved one can experience an uplifting sense of belonging that may help make their move to the community even easier.
An Abundance of Opportunities to Participate
As in most families, senior living communities tend to have an uptick in gatherings and events during the holiday season, giving you opportunities to enjoy festive entertainment and a firsthand experience of the atmosphere in the community. If possible, choose events that include lunch or dinner, so you can sample the food and engage residents in conversation to learn more about the community. If residents have family visiting for these events — which is more likely during the holiday season — don’t be shy about asking them questions, too. You’ll be able to get a richer understanding of what the community is like during the rest of the year.
Experience the Community’s Spiritual Philosophy
If faith is important to your loved one, this is the ideal time of year to experience a community’s approach to spirituality. Find out if there are opportunities beyond the holiday season for your loved one to engage in the spiritual practices that are meaningful to them, whether that means on-campus worship services, Bible study classes or a tranquil retreat in which to meditate.
Beat the Rush
The holidays may be a busy time of year at malls and shopping centers, but for senior living communities the business rush takes place in January. Touring senior living communities during the holidays puts you ahead of the many families that postpone this project until the new year. In addition to the festive atmosphere, during a holiday tour you’ll find staff members have more time to connect with you and to answer questions. Plus, getting ahead of the crowd may give your loved one a broader selection of residences to choose from, and they may even be able to capitalize on end-of-year move-in incentives.
Visit Friendship Village This Holiday Season
If you and your family are touring senior living communities during the holidays, make sure Friendship Village is on your list. We’re a Life Plan Community with two campuses — Chesterfield Community and Sunset Hills Community — near St. Louis, Missouri. Each campus is beautifully landscaped with well-appointed residences and appealing amenities, including chef-prepared menus. Each campus also provides a full continuum of care, so your loved one can get the support they need now and if their health needs change in the future. Contact us to learn more about our beautiful campuses, or to join us for a tour this holiday season.