“It’s just a feeling of knowing that you belong,” says Ginny, a resident at Terracina Grand on the Terracina Senior Living campus in Naples, Florida. “I felt like I was going to be able to meet people who I would be comfortable with and who I could relate to here.”

There are many reasons to choose a specific senior living community like location, amenities, care options and/or cost. Ginny says it really came down to her intuition. 

Her story helps others navigate this important decision.

The Right Fit Feels Like Home

From the moment she stepped into Terracina Grand, she felt truly comfortable. 

“It felt like I was going home,” says Ginny. “The people who work here are so nice and make things very comfortable for you. I’m here to stay.”

Ginny is a social butterfly within her community and frequently participates in trips and activities. “Mom is very outgoing,” says Clare, Ginny’s daughter, as she laughs. “She is out of her apartment more than she is in it.”

Trusting Your Intuition

Ginny's first impression highlights the importance of feeling like you belong when touring communities. 

When you walk through the doors, pay attention to your first impressions. Does the atmosphere feel welcoming? Do the residents seem engaged and happy? Your intuition often picks up on subtle cues that checklists might miss.

There are also practical ways to decide if a community truly feels like home. Think about visiting during meal times to look at the dining experience and social interactions. This gives you a glimpse into daily life. Take time to speak with current residents about their experiences. 

Look closely at the activity calendar to see if the programming aligns with your interests and lifestyle. These purposeful activities make a difference.

The Right Fit is Peace of Mind

“It’s peace of mind for myself, my daughter and the family, knowing that mom is being taken care of and that she is having fun,” says Clare. 

Before Ginny moved into a senior living community, she knew it was time for a change. “ After moving in, it still took time to get her health differences settled. But now she is loving life again.”

Questions to Ask Yourself After Touring

After visiting communities, take time to reflect on these important questions:

• Could I see myself making friends with the residents I met? 
• Did the team members seem genuinely caring and engaged? 
• Would the activities and programs keep me mentally and physically active? 
• Did the community feel vibrant with purposeful energy? 
• Can I envision my family feeling comfortable visiting here?

Trust both your practical observations and emotional responses when making this important decision.

Making Your Decision

Like Ginny found at Terracina Grand, when a community truly fits, you know it. The combination of welcoming team members, engaging residents, meaningful activities and that feeling of belonging all come together to create a place that feels like home.

The best community is one where you can continue growing. Take your time touring different communities, ask plenty of questions and trust your instincts about the right fit for you.