Checklist for Touring Assisted Living Facilities

Touring assisted living facilities is a vital step when choosing the right care. This checklist ensures you capture key observations and compare options objectively.

Top 5 Things to Look For

Atmosphere: Cleanliness, noise, and odors.
Resident Well-being: Are they happy and engaged?
Staff Behavior: Professionalism and patience.
Rooms: Safety features and comfort.
Dining: Quality and dietary variety.

Touring Categories

Sensory Check

Note smells and noise levels.

• Fresh, clean scent suggests good hygiene.
• Calming background energy is ideal.

Resident Check

Observe mood and appearance.

• Are they socializing and fulfillled?
• Are hygiene and grooming given attention?

Staff Check

Assess professionalism and pace.

• Patient and respectful communication.
• Sense of calm efficiency vs. feeling overwhelmed.

Room Check

Inspect safety and comfort.

• Grab bars and adequate lighting.
• Homely feel and accessibility.

Food Check

Review visual appeal and variety.

• Rotating menu and dietary options.
• Ask residents for their honest opinion.

Scheduled vs. Drop-in Visits

Scheduled Tours

Pros: Comprehensive walk-through, dedicated staff.
Cons: May not reflect the everyday unfiltered reality.

Drop-in Visits

Pros: Unfiltered glimpse of daily operations.
Cons: Staff may be less available for questions.

Next Steps

Download our printable Checklist PDF.
Visit during mealtimes to evaluate food quality.
Compare at least 3–5 facilities before deciding.

FAQs

How many facilities should I tour?▼

It’s recommended to visit at least 3–5 facilities to understand your options.

What should I bring to tours?▼

Bring a notebook, your phone for photos, and our checklist PDF.

What if my loved one doesn't like it?▼

Transitioning takes time. Give it a few weeks, and work with an advisor if concerns persist.

Reviewed by: Easy Care Finder Team • Last reviewed: 2026-01-06

This page is for educational purposes and does not provide medical or legal advice.

Loading content...