What to Look for in a Senior Living Community
Choosing a senior living community is an important decision you can make for yourself or your loved ones. It’s not just about finding a place to live—it’s about finding a home where you’ll feel respected, supported, and genuinely connected. At Laurel Heights, we often hear families say that what stood out to them was more than just the amenities—it was the feeling of belonging, the kindness of the staff, and the vibrancy of daily life.
If you’re beginning the journey of exploring senior living options, here’s what to look for when comparing communities, along with insights that can help you make a confident, informed choice.
What makes a community feel like home?
At the heart of every great senior living community are three essential qualities:
Warmth of team: The way team members greet residents, interact with families, and engage with one another speaks volumes. Look for memebrs of the team who are friendly, patient, and attentive—these are the people who will shape your daily experience.
Friendship between residents: A true community is evident when residents are engaged with each other—whether sharing meals, participating in activities, or simply chatting in common areas.
Attention to individual needs: Personalized care and genuine interest in residents’ preferences, histories, and routines make a community feel like home.
These are not just “nice-to-haves”—they are signs that a community prioritizes dignity, respect, and quality of life for their residents.
What families should pay attention to on a tour
When touring a senior living community, the visual details matter—but so do the things that aren’t always immediately obvious. Here’s a checklist of what to observe and ask:
Cleanliness: Are the common areas, dining spaces, and suites well-maintained? Cleanliness is a direct reflection of care standards.
Activities calendar: Is there a robust schedule of activities, and do residents actively participate? This reflects the vibrancy of the community.
Resident engagement: Do residents appear happy, social, and active?
Emergency protocols: Inquire about safety measures, such as emergency call systems and 24/7 staffing.
Care levels offered: Does the community provide multiple levels of care (e.g., Independent Living, Supportive Living) to support changing needs?
Team interaction: Watch how team members engage with residents — do they greet residents by name? This small but meaningful detail shows familiarity, respect, and a personalised approach to care.
Taking note of these elements can give you a clearer picture of whether a community is prepared to offer both care and comfort.
Signs a community will support both care needs and lifestyle
A good senior living community doesn’t just meet health needs—it supports the whole person, including social, emotional, and lifestyle preferences. Here’s how to tell if a community will be a good fit:
Detailed introductory session: A thoughtful care team will ask about your medical history, personal preferences, routines, and goals—not just basic health questions.
Diverse social and wellness programs: Look for offerings that cater to varied interests, from fitness classes to cultural events to creative workshops.
Support for continuing hobbies and routines: Can you keep gardening, playing music, or practicing yoga as you did at home? Communities that help you maintain your lifestyle show respect for who you are.
If the team takes time to understand the full picture of your life—not just your medical needs—that’s a good sign they’ll support your well-being holistically.
Red flags to watch out for
While many communities may look similar on paper, there are some red flags to be aware of:
Unclear care options: If the team is vague or uncertain about the type of care offered, proceed cautiously.
Limited visiting hours: Family and friends should always feel welcome — not restricted by rigid visiting hours. After all, this isn’t a hospital; it’s your home.
Rushed or impersonal tours: If the tour feels hurried or generic, it may reflect the overall culture of the community.
Disengaged team: If team members appear indifferent or preoccupied, it could indicate larger issues with morale or training.
Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s worth asking more questions or visiting again.
Why families choose Laurel Heights
At Laurel Heights, families often share that their decision to join our community was made easier by:
Transparency: We provide clear, honest information about care levels, pricing, and services—no hidden details.
Supportive, attentive staff: Families appreciate that our team takes the time to listen, understand, and support both residents and their families.
Patience and respect: We understand that choosing a community is a big decision, and we’re here to guide you at your pace—not ours.
Our North Star: Let us welcome you home
At Laurel Heights, our guiding principle is simple yet profound: Let us welcome you home. It’s not just a motto—it’s the heart of our approach. From the first tour to moving in and beyond, we’re committed to creating an environment where you feel seen, heard, and truly at home.
When we say home, we mean more than just a place to live. We mean a place where you are respected for who you are, where your story matters, and where your life continues to grow in connection with others. From the moment you walk through our doors for a tour, we want you to feel that this is a community that sees you—not just your needs, but your preferences, your history, and your dreams for the future.
Moving into a senior living community can be a big transition, and we honour that by ensuring every step is guided by empathy, patience, and understanding. Whether you’re asking questions during a tour, settling into your new suite, or participating in community life, our team is dedicated to making you feel supported as part of our extended family.
We believe that home is where you feel a deep sense of belonging, where laughter is shared, where friendships are built, and where your well-being is nurtured every day. That is what we strive to create at Laurel Heights—a place where you can live with comfort, dignity, and joy.
If you’re considering senior living, we’d love to show you around Laurel Heights. Whether you prefer an in-person tour or a virtual walkthrough, we’re here to help you experience what makes our community special.
Ready to explore Laurel Heights?
Looking to take the next step or simply stay connected? Here are a few helpful links:
Contact us – We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.
Book a tour – Come experience our community in person.
Virtual tour - Discover the warmth of our community from wherever you are.
Visit our YouTube channel – See daily life, special moments, expert interviews and resident stories in action.
Stay connected on Facebook
About Laurel Heights
Located in Edmonton’s peaceful Meadows area, Laurel Heights is a senior living community that blends comfort, culture, and connection. With a focus on inclusivity, it offers a nurturing environment where residents can enjoy independence while being supported by a caring community. The residence boasts modern, spacious suites tailored for both Independent and Supportive Living, thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as kitchenettes and emergency call systems to ensure safety and convenience. Managed by Optima Living, a trusted operator with over 15 years of experience in Western Canada, Laurel Heights is dedicated to providing exceptional senior care, ensuring that every resident leads a fulfilling and dignified life.