When considering moving into a retirement community, understanding the floor plans can play a significant role in your decision-making process. It allows you to visualize your potential living space and evaluate how well it suits your needs and lifestyle. Here are 8 steps to help you make sense of these important documents.
Identify Room Labels
On a senior living floor plan, each area is usually labeled to represent different rooms like the living room, kitchen, bedroom, or bathroom. Start by familiarizing yourself with these labels to understand the layout and flow of the apartment or house.
Check the Scale
Floor plans are scaled-down representations of the space. Check the scale, usually found at the bottom or corner of the plan, which tells you the ratio of the plan’s size to the actual size of the property. This helps you understand the real dimensions and space you’ll have in each room.
Understand Symbols and Lines
Floor plans use a variety of symbols and lines to represent different elements. Solid thick lines usually denote walls, while thin lines may represent built-in features like cabinets. Doors are commonly represented as a straight line or an arc. Symbols can represent appliances, fixtures, or furniture. Familiarize yourself with these to fully understand the plan.
Look at Room Arrangement and Flow
Observe how the rooms are arranged and how they connect with each other. Is the bedroom far from the living room? Is the bathroom conveniently located? This can help you visualize moving through the house on a daily basis.
Consider Room Sizes and Space
While it’s important to consider the total square footage of the floor plan, also focus on the size and shape of individual rooms. Consider whether they will comfortably accommodate your furniture and allow for easy movement.
Check Window and Door Placement
The placement of doors and windows affects natural light and ventilation in the rooms. It can also impact where you can place your furniture. Make sure you’re comfortable with their location.
Examine Outdoor Spaces
If the retirement community home has a patio, balcony, or garden area, this should be marked on the floor plan. Consider whether this space meets your desires for outdoor living.
Visualize Your Lifestyle in the Space
Ultimately, you want to imagine living in the space. Does the floor plan accommodate your daily activities? Is there enough storage? Can you host your family and friends? Visualizing your lifestyle in the space can help confirm if it’s the right fit for you.
Senior Living Floor Plans
Understanding the floor plan is a crucial part of choosing your new home in a retirement community. It helps you see beyond the immediate appeal and make an informed decision based on your personal needs and lifestyle. Remember, the goal is to find a place where you will be comfortable, safe, and able to enjoy your retirement to the fullest. Don’t rush this process – take your time to understand every aspect of the floor plan and seek clarification when needed. After all, this is about making your new home truly feel like home.
