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Getting Started
DISCOVER THE ARBORS
Your First Steps Toward Finding the Right Assisted Living Community
Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision, and it can feel overwhelming at first. At The Arbors, we want to make the process easier, clearer, and more comforting from the very beginning. Whether you're just beginning to explore assisted living or preparing for the next step, this page will walk you through what to look for, what to ask, and how to feel confident moving forward
When you’re ready, come visit us. Walk through our doors. Meet our team. Feel what makes The Arbors home.
GETTING STARTED
Where to Begin Your Assisted Living Journey
1. Consider How It Feels
Before diving into checklists and questions, pause to think about what you want your loved one to feel each day: safe, comfortable, included, and loved. At The Arbors, the heart of assisted living isn’t in bells and whistles; it’s in the warmth of the community, the kindness of the staff, and that unmistakable feeling of home. Keep one simple question in mind as you start your search: “Can I picture my loved one feeling at home here?”
2. Explore Online, But Don’t Stop There
Websites are a great place to start and help you narrow down your options. However, the real feeling of a community comes alive when you walk through the doors. Use online research to create a short list of communities you’d like to visit.
3. Schedule Tours
Visiting in person is the best way to experience firsthand how residents live, how staff interact, and what the environment feels like. During your tour, pay attention to:
- Are you greeted with warmth?
- Does the staff seem engaged and genuinely caring?
- Do residents look comfortable and connected?
- Does the building feel like a home, not just a facility?
At The Arbors, you’ll feel the difference the moment you arrive: conversation, laughter, and a sense of belonging.
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VISITOR TIPS
Resources for Prospective Residents and Their Families
Questions to Ask During Your Visit
Visiting a community is the best way to understand if it’s the right fit for your loved one. Asking the right questions ensures you get a full picture of daily life, care, and support. Here are key areas to cover during your visit:
About the Community
- What is the daily atmosphere like here?
- How do residents spend their day?
- What makes your community feel like home?
About the Care
- How do you get to know each resident personally?
- How does the staff support independence and dignity?
- Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns?
About Life Enrichment
- What kinds of activities are offered?
- How do you encourage social connection, especially for new residents?
- How do you tailor activities to individual interests?
About the Move-In Process
- What does the transition look like for new residents?
- How do you help residents settle in comfortably?
- Do you offer support for families during and after the move?
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What to Look For
Choosing the right assisted living community goes beyond amenities and programs. Focus on these key qualities that truly make a community feel like home:
- Connections
Do staff and residents know each other? Are there smiles, conversations, and genuine warmth throughout the day?
- Comfort
Does the environment feel welcoming and inviting? Are spaces cozy, clean, and designed for everyday living?
- Consistency
Is the team stable? Are the same friendly faces caring for residents each day?
- Community
Does it feel like people enjoy being here? Are residents engaged, happy, and actively involved in their daily lives?
- Respect
Do interactions show dignity, patience, and kindness from staff toward residents?
These qualities are what turn a building into a home and a team into a family.
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Terms You Should Know
- Assisted Living
Support with daily activities like bathing, meals, and medication while maintaining independence.
- Memory Care
A secure, specialized neighborhood for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
- Levels of Care
The amount of support a resident needs, which may increase over time.
- All-Inclusive
At The Arbors, all care is included in the monthly rent regardless of how much support is needed.
- Individualized Service Plan
A personalized plan outlining each resident’s needs, routines, and preferences.
- Respite Stay:
A short-term stay for recovery or caregiver relief. Understanding these terms can help you ask the right questions and make confident decisions about senior living.
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Helpful Links
For more guidance as you start your assisted living journey, explore these resources:
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Start the Conversation
Decision Paralysis
Finding Peace is a Process
Don’t Wait for a Crisis
Feeling Guilty
REQUEST A VISIT
Schedule a Tour of our Long Island Assisted Living Communities
Ready to see what makes The Arbors Assisted Living special? We’d love to welcome you to one of our five Long Island communities and show you firsthand the vibrant, supportive environment we provide.
