Searching for a senior living community for your loved one can be daunting. There are many factors to consider, including access to care, location, accommodations, activities, and more. To help make your search easier, Grand Oaks Executive Director Laurie Henley, ALFA, and Director of Sales Kevin Webber answered some of the most commonly asked questions by those seeking senior living options for their loved ones.

What is a typical day like for my loved one?

There is no ‘typical’ day – it’s different for each resident, depending on their individualized care plan. However, every resident can expect a team member to stop in and say hello, empty their trash, and make their bed (unless they have chosen to complete these tasks independently).

If a resident receives care or medication services, the team will visit them several times a day to assist and may also escort them to dining and activity programs.

How will they meet people?

Residents typically meet people first in the dining room. Our dining room staff works diligently to connect residents based on personal preferences and potential for connection. In addition, our residents can get to know each other during our many activity programs – such as walking club, crafts, book clubs, discussion groups, and theater outings, to name a few!

What qualities or features should I look for in a senior living community?

When visiting communities, make sure to look at other residents. Walking into a senior living community usually gives you a feel for the culture and atmosphere. Are residents and staff smiling? Are they friendly? Do the residents appear well cared for? Care, safety, nutrition, social, mental, and physical activities, and an overall healthy environment are vital.

Do you require any documentation or records from new residents?

Yes, our community asks residents to sign a residency agreement and review several standard policies upon admission. Additionally, the District of Columbia mandates specific regulations for senior living communities, which include obtaining certain medical records and documents before admission.

What kinds of safety features should I look for in a senior living community?

Resident safety is one of the most important things a community can provide. Not all residents receive regular medical care or services in senior living, but everyone needs a safe environment. At Grand Oaks, our staff are available 24/7 to ensure the safety of our residents and help with anything they need. Resident apartments are also designed with safety at the forefront, offering features such as accessible safety call buttons, shower and toilet bars, and more.

How will I know when we’ve found the perfect senior living community for my loved one?

When you walk in, it should feel right. A lot of the time, the people have a stronger effect than the accommodations – although those are great, too! You’ll know you have found the perfect community for your loved one when they feel comfortable, and you have peace of mind knowing they are safe.

What makes Grand Oaks different from other senior living communities?

Grand Oaks is located in the heart of Northwest DC, just minutes away from downtown attractions, yet it offers amenities that make it feel like you’re miles from the city. We pride ourselves on our reputation of delivering high-quality care for nearly 25 years. Our connection with Johns Hopkins Medicine and Sibley Memorial Hospital sets us apart from other senior living communities. It allows our residents to manage their healthcare needs without leaving the campus. We are one of the few senior living communities in the country to have this kind of relationship with a medical organization.

Another perk of life at Grand Oaks is our restaurant-style dining. Executive Chef Andrew Conlin crafts mouth-watering gourmet menus using only the freshest seasonal vegetables and organic ingredients sourced from local purveyors.