07/10/2025
Choosing the best assisted living community for a parent is a major decision. You want to know your family member will get excellent care and a clean, comfortable place to live. But beyond the care, beyond the amenities, activities and staff-to-resident ratio, there are factors that will ensure you’re making the best choice. Here are some signs you’re on the right track during your search.
Do positive feelings surround you on your visit?
Trust your eyes and instincts when touring assisted living communities. Take your time. Talk with the staff and other residents. When your parent joins you on a visit, watch for these immediate positive reactions:
Did you both feel welcome?
How did it feel as you entered the community? Was it welcoming and filled with a good energy? Did the staff try to connect with you and your family? Did you feel your questions were answered candidly?
Were the benefits of living there apparent?
Did your family member recognize the advantages of becoming a resident, including the added activities, increased social interactions and enhanced care? Seeing the many positives of assisted living beforehand makes the transition to a community much smoother.
Would your loved one feel at home in their new apartment?
Was your family member envisioning how their favorite furniture will fit and where they’ll hang cherished photos?
Are they looking forward to activities and programs?
Do they perk up at the idea of art classes, fitness programs or daytrips and excursions to local attractions? This is a sign that the community offers a lifestyle that aligns with their interests.
Do you find the setting beautiful?
As we age, we often slow down and find joy in natural beauty. Are there plenty of green spaces, peaceful sitting areas and vegetable or flower gardens?
Is the community pet friendly?
A retirement living counselor can tell you about the pet policy, like weight or breed restrictions. Beyond that, did the community feel welcoming to animal lovers? If your parent has a beloved cat or dog, do they feel their furry friend would be happy there too?
Ensuring the community is the best fit
Now you have a list of questions and answers, and your initial impression is strong. Now consider these aspects of a community to make sure it fits your parent’s personality, values and habits:
There isn’t pressure to change to fit in
Your family member shouldn’t feel like they must change their style, beliefs or routines to fit in. Look for a community that welcomes and supports each individual for who they are.
Your family member thinks they could readily make friends
Social connection is crucial for well-being. Observe the interactions between residents and staff. Do people seem genuinely happy and engaged?
There’s a place to practice their faith
Does the community offer transportation to religious services or host religious services and studies on site?
The dining area and food are appealing
Just as important as delectable food, shared meals are a big part of community life. Request a mealtime visit and sample the chef’s talents. It’s a great time to see the community in action and chat with others about their experiences. Learn more about The Forum’s dining options here.
It doesn’t feel like they’re giving up too much
Moving to assisted living is a transition, and it’s important to realize a resident gains far more than they lose. The best assisted living communities help residents increase their quality of life and regain independence, not give it up.
Recognized as the Best Assisted Living in the Area
In addition to our residents, who else thinks we’re the best? The Forum was voted The Best in Silicon Valley by Mercury News readers in 2023, 2024 and 2025. We have been recognized nationally by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities in 2025 and a Caring.com Super Star. These regular accolades are evidence of our mission to serve seniors and bring families confidence that their loved ones will experience compassionate, award-winning assisted living in a beautiful setting.
To see everything in person, schedule your visit today.
