Are you unsure if a senior living community is right for you? Or maybe you’ve considered moving to an Otterbein SeniorLife Community, but still have questions.

Choosing the right senior living community is one of the most important decisions you or your family will make. From understanding daily life and care services to navigating costs and amenities, there’s a lot to consider. To help you with the decision-making process, we’ve created a list of common questions we hear from prospective residents and their families — along with clear, honest answers to guide your journey.

Q: I’m not sure how to start downsizing. Where do I even begin?

A: One of the most pleasant surprises for our incoming residents? The hands-on support we provide with moving and logistics. It’s a service nearly every family takes advantage of — and for good reason. We help take the heavy lifting (literally and figuratively) out of coordinating the move. We even offer the option to purchase the furniture from a staged home, making the transition that much simpler.

Still, while downsizing can be challenging, it’s more than possible! See our downsizing guide for tips on getting started.

Q: I’m interested in one of your patio homes. What are they like?

A: Our patio homes are some of our most popular options and come in a variety of floor plans. You can take a look at our floor plans to see a sampling of what we offer by clicking the link below.

Explore independent living at Otterbein Cridersville >>

Q: I heard I have to make a large endowment to move into Otterbein. Is that true?

A: No, we don’t require a large endowment for you to move in. In reality, Otterbein Cridersville is affordable for most budgets.

Learn more about Otterbein’s costs and how payment plans work >>

Q: Are there any hidden fees I’ll have to pay later on?

A: We get this question often, and the answer is a confident no. Many families come to us expecting a hidden catch, so when we share that the monthly rent includes all of our amenities, there’s often a moment of pleasant disbelief. The only additional costs are tied to optional services you can choose to add — such as laundry service — if and when you want them. Our goal is simple: clear, honest pricing so you always know what to expect.

Find your free guide to planning and paying for independent living at Otterbein >>

Q: How do I get involved at Otterbein?

A: We have so many different groups within the community. There are active residents participating in everything going on in the Life Enrichment Center; we have Bible studies, a library program, a resident volunteer program where you can help at the front desk. You can be as involved in our community as you always were.

Q: I don’t know anyone else at Otterbein. How can I meet people and make new friends?

A: You’re in luck — the Otterbein Ambassadors program should help. The Otterbein Ambassadors are a group of resident volunteers who assist our new residents in becoming acclimated to their new home and campus life. They are available to answer questions, accompany their new neighbor to programming, make introductions, and help you feel at home.

Q: What do most people think after moving to Otterbein?

A: Many residents will say, ‘I should have done this a long time ago. Why didn’t I do this 5 years ago?’ That’s a very common thing we hear.

Learn how independent living enriches lives at Otterbein Cridersville >>

Ready to Learn More About Otterbein Cridersville?

See how we embrace the motto, “Small-town comfort; big-town amenities” at Otterbein Cridersville today. Take a look at our floor plans, home tour videos, photos, resident stories, and more.

Learn More About Otterbein Cridersville

 

This blog was updated in April 2026.