Choosing the right retirement community for yourself or a loved one is a very important decision. We encourage you to book a personal appointment at the Chartwell residence nearest you so you can personally experience our commitment to the highest standards of care, service and respect.
When you take a tour of a retirement community, you might consider asking the following questions*:
- Ask the residents about their experiences living there
- Ask for residents’ family references, so you may contact them for their opinions
- Plan to stay or return another day for a complimentary lunch or dinner
- Beyond the standard tour, check stairwells and other less-traveled areas to see how well they are cleaned and maintained
- Don't limit your tour to suites and common areas. Ask to see the kitchen
- For the true experience, enquire about a trial visit or an overnight stay
- Ask for copies of any paperwork required for admission along with samples of menus, activity calendars and newsletters
You can use the following checklist when comparing services and amenities:
Services Available
- Meals
- Tray Service to Suites
- Daily Housekeeping
- Weekly Housekeeping
- Personal Laundry
- Recreation Program
- Medication Supervision
- Vitals Monitoring
- Visiting Physician
- Physician on Call Dementia Unit
- Visiting Dental Service
- Visiting Lab Service
- Visiting Podiatrist
- Visiting Physiotherapist
- Pharmacy Services
- Assisted Living Services
- Respite/Convalescent Care
- RN/RPN on staff
- Private Duty Nursing
- Transportation
Amenities
- Central Dining Room
- Library
- Resident Storage
- Air Conditioned Common Areas
- Private Dining Rm/Area
- Chapel
- Tuck Shop
Suite
- Kitchenette
- Private Bath
- Heating: Individually Controlled
- Air Condition: Individually Controlled
- Call Bell System
- Fire and/or Smoke Alarms
- Sprinkler in each suite
Community Services
- How close is the nearest hospital, medical clinic, dentist office?
- Are there churches, parks, shops and seniors' centres nearby?
- How accessible is public transportation?
- Is there an accessibility transit service available?
Financial Matters
- What is the daily/monthly rate?
- Are there charges for additional services you may want or need?
- Is phone or cable service part of your package?
- Is there a resident petty cash account with separate accounting?
- What type of notice period is required should you need, or decide to move?
- How often are rates for accommodation and/or services increased?
- What was the average annual rate of increase over the last few years?
Admission Policies
- Are wheelchairs and walkers accepted?
- Are scooters allowed?
- Are any forms of oxygen therapy allowed?
- Is a health assessment required?
- What happens if your health deteriorates?
*Source: Ontario Retirement Communities Association
Chartwell Seniors Housing is a proud member of the following retirement associations. Please click the links below to learn more:
