Looking for a residence or a family member must leave the family home to go to a retirement home ? Whether it is to make sure you live in a safer environment, free yourself from daily tasks, or access multiple services under one roof, this process requires some planning.
In order to achieve a positive and smooth move, Bonjour Residences.com offers a step-by-step approach to an effective search process. With these tips and the accommodation request , you can find the right place with confidence.
1- Identify your needs
An essential step to start your research! Ask yourself about your needs or those of your loved one. Try to find out what matters to you and what is secondary. Then, stay true to your criteria during the search. These will be a determining factor in the budget available for rent and will influence the choice of the location of your future living environment .
Relevant questions to ask yourself:
What is my level of autonomy?
What type of housing do I need? (Eg number of rooms)
What type of complex would suit me better?
According to my needs, what services are offered and suitable for me? (Ex .: housekeeping service, 3 meals / day, medication management service, etc.)
Are my favorite activities offered at this residence?
How could I get to my appointments? Does the residence offer a shuttle service?
2- Establish your budget
Having a good idea of your budget is a great starting point to plan your ideal residence. The good news is that this exercise is much simple then it seems.
To do this, determine your sources of income and your expenses in order to obtain a price range corresponding to your financial resources. Set the values by month since the prices of rents in residence are calculated in monthly payments.
During your research , you will find that each residence offers prices that include different services. By having a good knowledge of your expenses and your habits, you will be in a good position to make comparisons and so better evaluate your choices.
Relevant questions to ask yourself:
Am I eligible for benefits ?
What is the maximum amount I can allocate to my rent?
How much am I willing to pay for services?
What care would I need in the long run?
3- Determine the city where you want to live
Once you have established your criteria, select your preferred living area. The location of your future home has a big impact in your decision. You will live there for a long time and it is also where you will make new connections, contributing to your quality of life. If it's important for you to be close to your family and friends, or a shopping center, include these elements in your choice. This will save you a lot of hassle once you've settled in the seniors' residence and will encourage family gatherings or social activities.
Be flexible and open to new possibilities; maybe the residence of your dreams is in the city next to the one you are looking for. Quebec is full of beautiful municipalities that all have beautiful things to offer.
Relevant questions to ask yourself:
Is the area near my relatives?
What is my preference: the city, the suburbs or the countryside?
Are there amenities nearby?
Will my medical follow-ups be available at this location?
Is the place accessible by public transport?
If I am in love with nature, are there walking trails or parks nearby?
4- Use technology or web tools
Today, you find everything on the Internet. Simpler, more precise and faster, Web tools accelerate research of all kinds. Finding a retirement home is no exception. So if you want to find a quality senior home, use a search platform such as Bonjour Résidences. We will help you find residences that meet your criteria. You will save a lot of time and only visit residences that really suit your needs. Fill out an accommodation request now .
5- Consult the resources available to seniors
Do not hesitate to consult the resources for seniors available to make an informed choice, regarding transportation, health, benefits, employment, etc. You will be able to create a personalized list of steps to benefit from these programs and services. In addition, you can consult the directory of professional and community groups .
6- Find out about hygiene and safety
Hygiene and safety are essential to consider in choosing your senior home. When choosing an interesting location, find out about cleanliness and the security measures that are in place. You can request this information from the Residency Manager or include it in the search tools. The Bonjour Résidences platform includes these criteria in its detailed and modern research tool.
7- Look for reviews or comments
The reputation of a residence speaks about its quality. Seeking advice on the experience, atmosphere, cleanliness and quality of services is an important step. With this information, you will be better equipped to make the right decision and above all, to avoid unpleasant surprises once the lease is signed. If you find several negative comments about a senior home, it may be wiser to continue your search. On the other hand, if you find that a seniors' residence has many positive opinions, you are surely on the right track.
To know the reviews, Bonjour Résidences platform is the place to be. Residents or family members can leave comments and note their appreciation.
8- Find out about the regulations
Before signing a lease, it is best to understand the rules and conditions of the establishment. Take and read all the necessary documentation to be well informed about life in residence and rules to follow . The code of ethics, additional costs, the reception procedure, the filing, the handling of complaints and the related services must be taken into consideration. If all of this suits you, continue your process.
9- Make an appointment
Once your residence has been selected, to simplify making appointments and speak quickly to the right person, use the Bonjour Résidences platform . It will give you contact information for the resource person and will speed up the appointment process.
On site, visit the dining room, the common areas and talk to the staff. Find out if you feel comfortable in the residence and in the unit. Above all, do not hesitate to ask questions that you will have previously defined on a list. This meeting is the perfect moment to look for answers. However, if you are looking for accommodation for a loved one, bring him with you if possible. After the visit, discuss together and measure the pros and cons to find out if this retirement home is ideal.
10- Sign the lease
Before signing your lease, review the rent inclusions and especially the services that will require additional costs. The goal is to be well informed and especially to avoid gray areas. If necessary, review the rules and operation of the seniors' residence. If everything is right for you, sign the lease with complete peace of mind. Your research will have paid off and you will enjoy your new home.
With this guide for finding residences, you will know how to find the perfect senior home. It's a safe bet that this process will seem easier with these tips and tools. And if you hesitate, continue your search on Bonjour Résidences to discover authentic reviews. You will certainly find the ideal place among those proposed there.
Start the search now with Bonjour Résidences
Want to get help in your research? Our team of experts is available at all times to assist you in your research. Enjoy the comfort of your home, thanks to our free phone service, we quickly find the residences likely to suit you everywhere in Quebec.
To begin, complete the accommodation request form or contact us at 1-844-918-1020. Your request is urgent? Speed up your search for a home with our free Urgent Placement service.