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A Gift Of Time, LLC

Senior Move Managers — Serving Milwaukee & Southeastern Wisconsin for 30 Years

agiftoftime.net  ·  (414) 510-9695  ·  info@agiftoftime.net  ·  Mon–Fri: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Updated Sep 2026

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What to Ask on a Community Tour — 45 Expert Questions

NASMM Certified · BBB A+ Rated · 30+ Years Experience

Wisconsin reference ranges — typical monthly cost, 2026

Assisted living: $6,540 / moMemory care: ~$8,200 / moNursing home (private room): $12,319 / mo

Statewide ranges. Milwaukee and Waukesha counties usually quote at the upper end — always ask for the community's own written rate sheet.

Ranges checked

Oct 2026

next spring 2027

Cost & Contracts

  1. 1What is included in the base monthly fee — meals, housekeeping, laundry, activities?
  2. 2What triggers additional charges and how much are they typically?
  3. 3How have rates increased over the past three years — and by how much?
  4. 4What is the process and typical timeline for rate increases?
  5. 5Is there a community fee or move-in deposit? Is it refundable?
  6. 6What care level am I currently assessed at, and what are costs at higher levels?
  7. 7What happens financially if my loved one runs out of savings?
  8. 8Is there a written contract? Can I have it reviewed by an attorney before signing?
  9. 9What is the notice period required to move out?

Care & Staffing

  1. 1What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day? In the evening? Overnight?
  2. 2Are there registered nurses on-site around the clock, or on-call only?
  3. 3How are care plans developed — and who is involved in creating them?
  4. 4How often are care plans reviewed and updated as needs change?
  5. 5What is the average staff tenure? How do you handle high turnover?
  6. 6How does staff communicate health changes to family members?
  7. 7What training do staff receive in dementia care or memory support?
  8. 8How are medications managed, stored, and administered?
  9. 9What is the process if a resident has a fall or medical emergency?

Daily Life & Community

  1. 1Can I see the actual activities calendar — not a sample one — for this week?
  2. 2What does a typical day look like for a new resident?
  3. 3What dining options are available? Can I stay for a meal today?
  4. 4Are there choices at mealtimes? How are dietary restrictions handled?
  5. 5What amenities are available — fitness, library, salon, outdoor spaces?
  6. 6Are there regular outings, transportation, or off-campus activities?
  7. 7What is the guest and visitor policy, including after hours?
  8. 8Are pets allowed? What are the rules?
  9. 9How are laundry and housekeeping services handled?

Safety & Oversight

  1. 1How is the building secured — entry points, memory care unit access, overnight protocols?
  2. 2What fall prevention measures are in place?
  3. 3Does each unit have an emergency call system? Is it tested regularly?
  4. 4Has the community received any state citations or violations in the past two years?
  5. 5How is the community monitored or rated by state regulatory agencies?
  6. 6What is the protocol if a resident needs hospitalization?
  7. 7What is the discharge policy — under what circumstances must a resident leave?
  8. 8Is there a resident or family council? How are complaints handled?
  9. 9Can I speak with the state ombudsman about this community if I have concerns?

The Intangibles

  1. 1How do staff greet and speak to residents when they think no one is watching?
  2. 2Do the residents seem engaged, comfortable, and well-groomed?
  3. 3How does the community respond to a resident having a bad day?
  4. 4Can I speak with two or three families of current residents as references?
  5. 5What do you wish more families asked before moving in?
  6. 6How does the community celebrate resident birthdays, milestones, or holidays?
  7. 7What makes this community different from others in the area?
  8. 8How is the community leadership involved in day-to-day life here?
  9. 9What does a successful transition into this community look like?
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Touring communities in Milwaukee or Southeastern Wisconsin? · A Gift of Time Senior Move Management · agiftoftime.net

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