Memory care is long-term care specifically for older adults who have dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other kinds of cognitive impairment. As you look at the memory care community options for your older loved one, be prepared with the right questions that address your concerns for your loved one’s care. Here are a few to get you started.
Memory care services
Memory care communities can offer a range of activities a%%excerpt%% nd services, some of which are more important to your loved ones than others. No matter which community you choose, keep in mind that all staff members have specialized training to assist people with cognitive impairments. Other standard services will include medical monitoring, 24-hour supervised care, assistance with daily living tasks, and 3 meals a day.
Questions for choosing a memory care community
While you’re searching for a memory care community, you’ll eventually come up with a list of your top choices that you will want to tour. When you go on a tour, prepare a list of questions for the staff to determine whether your loved one will fit right into that community. Here are a few questions to get you started:
- What kind of specialized memory care training does the care staff receive?
- Are the rooms semi-private or private? How much do they cost?
- What is the monthly rate for housing? What services and amenities are included?
- What assistance with daily living does this community provide with the monthly fee? What costs extra?
- What are the policies related to medical emergencies? How will a loved one be notified?
- What security measures are in place for the memory care community?
- What meals are provided? Is there variety in the menu? Is the community able to accommodate special dietary requirements, and cultural requests such as kosher meals?
- How often are laundry and housekeeping services provided?
- Does the community provide special care needs such as mobility issues, diabetic care, or wandering?
- Does the community provide social, exercise, and other programs?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and night?
- How are families able to communicate with their loved ones? How often does care staff communicate with a resident’s loved ones?
If you’re still unsure about making this big decision or need guidance for the next step, think about talking to friends and family who have already gone through the process, they can provide you with much-needed support during a potentially trying time for your loved one and your family. To learn more about Shepherd Premier Senior Living’s assisted living and memory care communities, visit their website here. Curious about the affordability of senior living?
Visit our Funding Guide.
