Planning Ahead for Senior Living

Expert Advice for a Confident Future

When it comes to senior living, one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your family is time…time to explore, understand your options, and make decisions on your own terms. According to Michelle Olafson, Director of Admissions and Residential Accommodations, who has spent the past 26 years helping seniors navigate this important transition at Franke Tobey Jones, the key to a successful move is thoughtful planning and informed decision-making.

Here are her Top Three Pearls of Wisdome for anyone considering senior living in the future:

1. Plan Ahead

And if you’re reading this—you’re already on the right track.

Planning ahead allows you to make decisions with clarity rather than urgency. Take time to:

• Learn what higher levels of care are available within communities, such as assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing.
• Understand how transitions work so they feel less overwhelming if and when the time comes.
• Visit several communities. Each one has its own unique culture, atmosphere, dining, activities, and team members.

The more you explore now, the more confident you’ll feel later.

2. Get on a Waitlist—Or Several

This step cannot be overstated.  It’s one of the most important moves you can make.

Many well-regarded communities in the Puget Sound area, including Franke Tobey Jones, have long waitlists of between 100 and 1,200 people.

Joining a waitlist early gives you options and peace of mind. Most deposits are refundable, so being on multiple lists can provide flexibility. It’s important to remember that availability may not align exactly with when you need it, which leads to the next piece of advice.

3. Don’t Wait for a Crisis

The best transitions happen when they are proactive, not reactive.

Making a move before it becomes urgent allows you to:

• Choose where and when you move rather than being forced into a quick decision.
• Settle into a community, build friendships, and enjoy an active lifestyle before needing additional care.
• Benefit from priority placement if your care needs change. Many communities give current independent residents priority access to assisted living or higher levels of care.

Equally important is communication:

• Talk openly with family and loved ones about your wishes, finances, and future plans.
• Share what matters most to you so they can support your decisions with confidence.

As Michelle often hears from residents who made the move earlier in life—many say it was “one of the best decisions they ever made,” bringing both joy and peace of mind for themselves and their families.

Additional Tips for a Smart Search

As you begin your journey, keep these best practices in mind:

• Start Early
  Give yourself plenty of time to explore without pressure.
• Define Your Priorities
  What matters most…location, amenities, lifestyle, or healthcare access?
• Do Your Research
  Review websites, take virtual tours, and read resident feedback to get an authentic feel for each community.
• Tour in Person
  Visit during activities or mealtimes to experience daily life and interactions firsthand.
• Ask Questions
  Come prepared with a list so you fully understand costs, services, and lifestyle offerings.

Watch for Red Flags

While many communities offer excellent care and service, it’s important to watch out for:

• High staff turnover
• Unclean or poorly maintained spaces
• Lack of resident engagement
• Vague or unclear pricing

Trust your instincts, if something feels off, it’s worth exploring further or considering other options.

Learn from Those Who’ve Lived It

Some of the best insights come from current residents. Their stories, experiences, and perspectives can provide invaluable clarity as you evaluate your choices.

Final Thought

Planning for senior living isn’t just about preparing for the future, it’s about creating a lifestyle filled with connection, security, and opportunity. With thoughtful planning and the right guidance, you can make a decision that brings confidence today and peace of mind for years to come.

For more information about senior living, feel free to contact Franke Tobey Jones at 253-752-6621 or check out the FTJ website at FrankeTobeyJones.com.