The decision to put a senior loved one into a memory care residence can be a challenging one. We all have cherished memories of life – of the events and occasions and relationships – and the reality of needing memory care can be hard to accept. But when a family member begins to wander aimlessly or lose their ability to perform everyday tasks, choosing memory care may be necessary.
When you begin your search for the best local memory care community, there are many things to consider. When making such a consequential decision, you’ll want to ensure that you learn as much about the facility as possible.
A Guide to Choosing Memory Care
If several memory care facilities are on your list, prepare a set of questions to help you practically choose between your options. Asking each facility the same questions will establish a functional basis for your choice.
During your tour, take notes or document the details of each facility with video or photographs. When selecting the right memory care center, you’ll find most facilities are competent and compassionate – but they each provide unique amenities and features.
Sample Questions to Ask on Your Tour
- Are additional levels of care available as memory loss progresses? Memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s are typically progressive conditions. Understanding how the facility will adjust the level of care as your loved one’s situation changes is essential for peace of mind.
- What is the staff-to-patient ratio? Each resident in a memory care facility requires a specific level of care. While every licensed memory care center will have enough caregivers according to regulations, some may have a lower ratio to better care for your family member.
- Are physical therapy and exercise opportunities available for residents? Those who are in memory care need not only mental and emotional support but need to remain as physically healthy as possible as well. Therefore, understanding what fitness and physical rehabilitation equipment and services are offered may make a difference in your choice.
- Are professional staff onsite at all times – especially overnight? Understanding the caregiver’s skill level is essential, but knowing who will be with each resident during the most vulnerable times, such as during the night, is equally important.
- What level of security measures has been established? Two aspects of security are necessary for memory care. First, you’ll want your loved one to be safe from unauthorized contact. Just as importantly, you’ll want to ensure they will not be able to wander unsupervised into unsafe areas.
- Which personal amenities are available onsite? Routine is vital for memory care patients, and therefore, it is important to understand what their daily life will entail. You may wish to find out how meals are served or what level of housekeeping and laundry is included in their monthly rate. Special activities such as getting their hair done or getting a massage may also be essential to keep them happy and content, so be sure to ask what is available onsite.
- What social activities are available? Those with memory loss or dementia still deserve a meaningful and full life, and social activities are integral to that. Ask to review a social calendar and speak with the social director about ensuring that memory care patients stay engaged and interactive with one another.
- What are the rules for visitors? While some facilities may allow visitors at any time of day, others may have set visiting hours. Some facilities may have changed their protocols due to the COVID pandemic. Be sure to understand how and when you will be given access to the facility and how easy it will be to visit your loved one.
- How are the payment plans structured? Simply asking what the monthly rate is will not allow an apples-to-apples comparison. Be sure to clarify which services are included in the base rate and which are considered additional costs. Take some time to identify all of the services your loved one may need daily, and ask about each one.
My Care Finders is an active advocate for those exploring senior living options. Our services are FREE OF CHARGE and provide practical, expert guidance to help determine which local facility is best for you and your family. Our staff will accompany you on your tours to ensure your questions are answered to your satisfaction and you make the best choice for your family.
Call today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help in choosing memory care for your family.
