40 Smart Questions to Ask When Touring a Retirement Village with Your Parent

Touring retirement villages can feel overwhelming, but having the right questions to ask makes all the difference. The apartments are beautiful. The gardens are peaceful. The staff seem kind. But after the tour ends, many families think:

What did we forget to ask?

Retirement villages are more than a new address; they’re a change in lifestyle preferences and mark a meaningful new chapter in life. Retirement living offers opportunities for social engagement, activity, and well-being.

Having the right questions to ask when touring a retirement village helps you and family members make a confident choice without missing something important. This enables a clear understanding of your needs, financial commitments, essential service requirements and available options before a decision is made.

The right questions give you clarity and confidence.

They help you plan instead of reacting, and they prevent unexpected challenges down the track. Careful planning is key to ensuring a smooth transition to retirement living, allowing you to address financial, emotional, and practical aspects in advance.

Your Essential Retirement Villages Checklist

Bring this checklist with you when you visit. Write down the answers and, just as importantly, how the place feels to your parent.

1. Lifestyle and Amenities

• What is included in the monthly service charge?
• Are there extra costs for housekeeping, parking, or the gym?
• Does the retirement village have amenities for staying active such as swimming pools or other leisure facilities?
• Is there easy access to amenities, healthcare, and transportation within the village?
• Is the village located in a city centre, and what kind of city life is available to owners?
• What does the community offer in terms of social activities, amenities, and additional services?
• Does the village support independent living, and what options are available for owners who want autonomy?
• Are pets welcome, and are there any restrictions?
• What is the guest policy? Can family stay overnight?
• Are there quiet hours or noise rules?

2. Healthcare Services & Support

• Is there 24-hour emergency support on site?
• Is there an emergency response system?
• How does the village support owners’ healthcare needs, and what healthcare services are available on site?
• What is the availability and quality of medical facilities within the retirement village?
• What range of support services are provided to owners, including both healthcare and community assistance?
• What happens if health needs increase?
• Are assisted living or personal care services available?
• Can we bring in our own carers if needed?
• Can care plans be adjusted over time?

3. Financials

• What is the overall cost of living in the retirement village, including both upfront expenses and ongoing costs?
• What financial considerations should I take into account when choosing a retirement village?
• How can I assess my financial situation before committing to a retirement village?
• How is the service charge or monthly fees calculated, what do these fees cover, and how often can they increase?
• Are there exit fees and when are they charged?
• What happens if the apartment is sold?
• Is the property leasehold or freehold?
• What types of retirement property are available, and what factors should I consider when choosing one?

4. Retirement Community Feel

• What activities or events are offered to foster a sense of community and support vibrant communities within the village?
• How does the village promote community living and encourage social engagement among owners?
• What opportunities are there to interact with fellow owners, and how do these interactions contribute to the overall community atmosphere?
• Can we meet or speak with current rowners to learn firsthand about their experiences and satisfaction with the community?
• Are owners involved in planning activities and shaping the community environment?
• How are new owners welcomed and integrated into community life?
• What is the average age of owners?
• How can we determine if this is the right retirement village for my parent, considering their preferences and the community environment?

5. Practical Considerations

• How long is the waiting list, and how do most retirement villages manage reservations and move-in logistics?
• Can an apartment be reserved while we sell our current home?
• Is there support for transitioning from your current home, including downsizing and emotional preparation for the move?
• Are there parking spaces or storage units?
• What is the pet policy during move-in?

Practical Tips for a Successful Visit

1. Take Notes – Bring a notebook or use your phone. Capture facts and feelings.

2. Visit Twice – Morning can feel different from afternoon.

3. Talk to Owners – Staff show you the highlights, owners show you reality.

Choosing the right retirement village plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful transition and a high quality of life for seniors.

Walk Away Confident

There are many associated retirement community operators that vary widely and offer different things. This means asking the right questions does more than gather facts. It gives your family clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

With this checklist, you and your parent can choose a community that feels right today and for the years to come.

Now you’re fully armed with all the right questions to ask, it’s time to go see it for yourself. To book a private visit of one of our retirement villages click here.