Top 5 Things to Look for When Selecting memory care for Your Loved One
Imagine the feeling of moving to a completely new place, having your belongings boxed up and taken from your home with little to no say in the decision. Now, for a moment, place yourself in the shoes of someone responsible for making these life-changing decisions for their loved ones. This is a difficult reality for many people with a loved one who suffers from Dementia or Alzheimer’s. The struggle to come to terms with the responsibility of placing a loved one into a memory care community can be a challenging task and also having to select their new home from just one or two visits to the facility. Familiar with the tough day-to-day obstacles faced by residents and their loved ones alike, here are the things we feel are most important to consider when selecting memory care for your loved one.
The environment
When you walk into the memory care community, does the staff there welcome you? Are the lights dim and hallway walls empty, or are there window views and beautiful pictures hanging? These are some of the few things you notice right away, but you also need to pay attention to the atmosphere and feeling you get as you walk around. Will your loved one be able to wander casually as their mind will sometimes have them do, or are there too many twists and turns that could confuse them even more? Consider not only the layout of the building but also the different accommodations. Having a theater room, activity room, and living room will make a world of difference when it comes to the comfort and relaxed feeling you want your loved one to have in their home.
The levels of care provided
As many people know, Dementia and Alzheimer’s are not curable, only treatable. This gut-wrenching reality comes with the fact that your loved one’s needs regarding care can change within minutes, days, or months. When looking for a community, ask questions about what levels of care can be provided—from needing help with minor forgetfulness to needing bed baths and being spoon-fed. Never assume all the responsibility that is needed will be provided. Make sure it is clearly stated.
The availability of personal assistance
With different levels of care being provided for your loved one, you must also consider how much one-on-one assistance they will be receiving. Showering, using the restroom, and dressing is one thing, but are there times when care staff can also sit with Mom or Dad for small talk? Does the community you choose accommodate for companionship, or is it strictly helping with daily living activities? Not being able to be with your loved one to ensure they are getting what they need 24-7, may feel like you are no longer in control and aware of what’s going on. Take control. Ask questions. Be certain they are getting what’s needed and desired.
The activity calendar
Your loved ones' schedule should be purposeful and engaging. Bingo, musical entertainment, and exercise are some of the most common activities seen throughout senior living, but with memory care, you must be aware of the need for additional stimulation. It’s okay to speak with the Activity Director and fully understand how they will be engaging with your loved one daily. This applies not only to games and music therapies but also hands-on crafts and outings. It is important for your loved one to feel they have a purpose and have their days filled with different activities. This will keep their mind active and their bodies busy, which will encourage an overall positive feeling.
The quality of life provided
The most important thing to keep in mind throughout this entire process is to keep your loved one’s quality of life at the top of your priority list. You want them to maintain as much of their independence in the safest way possible. You want them to feel at home, secure, and comfortable, all while having their dignity intact. You, yourself, want to feel at ease that they are getting taken care of and living their life to the best of their ability.
Selecting a memory care community for your loved one doesn’t have to be something to be dreaded. This can be an opportunity for you to make their advancing years as comfortable and happy as possible. When choosing a community for your loved one, keeping these things in mind will help you find the right place for your loved one and guarantee they will thrive there.
For more information on senior care or to tour one of our communities, contact us