47 Questions to Ask When Touring an Assisted Living or Memory Care Community in Tampa Bay

By Melody Murphy, RN | Melody Senior Advisors | Clearwater, Saint Petersburg, Tampa Bay, Florida

Choosing an assisted living or memory care community for a loved one is one of the most important decisions a family will ever make. The photos on the website may look beautiful, and the sales director may say all the right things. However, what you discover by asking the right questions on a tour is what really matters.

As a Registered Nurse with over 18 years of healthcare experience and a local senior placement advisor here in the Tampa Bay area, I have personally toured communities throughout Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. I know what to look for, what questions to ask, and — perhaps more importantly — what the answers should sound like.

I put together this list so that families going on tours do not have to walk in unprepared. Print it out. Bring it with you. And do not be afraid to ask every single question on it.

💡 Melody's Tip: You can tour communities on your own, or you can work with a local senior advisor like me — at no cost to your family. I personally tour every community I recommend, so I can help you know what to look for before you even walk in the door.

1. Staffing & Care In Assisted Living

The quality of care your loved one receives will depend almost entirely on the staff. This includes how many of them there are, how well trained they are, and how long they have been there. These are the most important questions you will ask.

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day, evening, and overnight?

• Are there licensed nurses (RNs or LPNs) on-site 24 hours a day?

• How is staff trained, and how often do they receive updated training?

• What is the average length of time employees have worked here?

(High turnover is a red flag — continuity of care matters enormously.)

• How do you handle a resident whose care needs increase over time?

• Who is the primary person responsible for each resident's care plan?

• How are family members kept informed about changes in their loved one's condition?

• What happens if my loved one needs to go to the hospital — does a staff member go with them?

  
  

2. Safety & Environment

Take a close look around the building while you are on the tour. Is it clean? Does it smell fresh? Do residents look content? Your eyes will tell you as much as any answer you receive.

• Is the building secure? How do you prevent residents from wandering outside unsafely?

• Are there call buttons or emergency alert systems in rooms and bathrooms?

• How do you handle a medical emergency in the middle of the night?

• How often are rooms, common areas, and laundry cleaned?

• Is there outdoor space that residents can safely access?

• What is your most recent state inspection report, and were there any deficiencies?

(Florida AHCA inspection records are public — you can look these up yourself online.)

• Have there been any complaints or violations in the past two years?

  
  

3. Costs & Contracts

Pricing in assisted living can be complicated. The base rate rarely covers everything. Ask detailed questions now so there are no surprises on your first bill.

• What is included in the base monthly rate, and what costs extra?

• How often do rates increase, and by how much on average?

• What level-of-care fees apply if my loved one needs more assistance over time?

• What is your policy if someone runs out of money — do you accept Medicaid?

• What is your move-out policy, and how much notice is required?

• Is there a community or move-in fee? Is any of it refundable?

• Can I have a copy of the residency agreement to review before signing?

• Using Melody Senior Advisors can save you money.

  
  

4. Daily Life & Activities

A good community does not just keep your loved one safe — it keeps them engaged, connected, and living with dignity. Ask about what a real day looks and feels like.

• What does a typical day look like for residents?

• What activities and social programs are offered each week?

• How are meals handled — what are the dining hours and menu options?

• Can residents personalize their room with their own furniture and belongings?

• What religious or spiritual services are available?

• How do you accommodate residents who prefer to stay in their room?

• Is transportation provided for doctor's appointments and outings?

• Are pets allowed?

  
  

5. Medical & Clinical

In Florida, not all assisted living facilities are licensed to provide the same level of medical care. Understanding a community's clinical capabilities before you commit is essential.

• What level of care are you licensed to provide — standard ALF or Extended Congregate Care (ECC)?

(Florida ECC licensure allows for higher medical needs — this matters for many families.)

• Can residents keep their current doctors, or do they need to switch?

• How are medications managed and administered?

• Do you have a relationship with a hospice provider if that level of care is ever needed?

• Can residents receive home health or therapy services here (PT, OT, speech)?

• What conditions would require a resident to move to a higher level of care?

  
  

6. Memory Care (if applicable)

If you are touring specifically for a loved one with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, there is an additional layer of questions you should ask. Memory care is a specialized environment, and not all communities do it equally well.

• Is the memory care unit a separate, secured area?

• What specialized training do memory care staff receive?

• How do you manage challenging behaviors such as agitation, sundowning, or wandering?

• How do you keep residents engaged when their abilities change?

• What is your philosophy of care for residents with dementia?

• How do you involve families in the care of a loved one with memory loss?

• What is your policy on physical restraints or antipsychotic medications?

• At what point would a resident need to transition to skilled nursing care?

  
  

7. Overall Impressions

Some of the most important things you will learn on a tour cannot be found on a checklist. Pay attention to how the community feels — not just what people tell you.

• Do the residents appear clean, well-dressed, and content?

• Do staff members greet residents warmly and by name?

• Does the building smell clean — are there any unpleasant odors?

• Does the facility feel bright, welcoming, and homelike?

• Would I feel comfortable leaving my loved one here?

• Can I speak privately with a current resident or family member for a reference?

  
  

Conclusion: Trust Your Instincts

Touring a community is an emotional experience. It is okay to take your time, come back for a second visit, and ask follow-up questions. There is no such thing as asking too much when it comes to the safety and happiness of someone you love.

If you would like help preparing for tours or want someone with a clinical eye to accompany you, I am here. My service is completely free to families. I am paid by the community only if and when a placement is made. No pressure, no obligation.

Melody Murphy, RN | Melody Senior Advisors | Serving Pinellas & Hillsborough Counties | Free to Families 727-600-3917