What to Look for in a Memory Care Community

A memory care community refers to a facility designed to support people with memory problems such as Alzheimer’s disease or other illnesses related to dementia.

Memory care can be an independent facility or a specialized unit within a senior care facility. Regardless, all facilities are equipped with nurses, caregivers, programs, and medical services that contribute to the betterment of each resident’s well-being.

But with several facilities around, you have got to make sure that your loved one resides in a community suitable for their needs. Here are some essential factors that you should look for when choosing a memory care community.

 

1.     Excellent Healthcare Service

The specialized medical services offered in memory care facilities maybe one of your primary drivers to consider it for your loved one.

As such, you should ensure that the facility you will choose has an intensive healthcare program (and more) that can accommodate your loved one needs. Some services and features you should look for include:

●        Professionally trained nurses, staff, and caregivers.

●        Assistance with basic needs and personal care (bathing, eating)

●        Cleaning services

●        Medication management

●        Physical therapy and fitness

●        Individualized healthcare plans

●        Memory and behavioural therapy

 

2.     Compassionate Caregivers

Anyone can get the proper training and license for a caregiving job, but not everyone can show compassion and dedication to their job.

Although professional license and experience is a must, being empathetic, caring, and patient are the qualifications you should look for in your prospective memory care community’s staff and caregivers.

The facility should also have a high staff to resident ratio to provide quality supervision and assistance to each senior.

You can schedule an unannounced visit to your prospective facility so you can observe how the staff treats and takes care of their residents.

 

3.     Secure and Safe Spaces

Memory care communities should provide a safe and secure living arrangement that independent living fails to give. It is the reason why many families opt to get their loved ones into the facility.

As you scour the internet for the best facility, do not forget to check out the security measure each community takes to ensure their residents’ safety.

They must have at least the following:

●        Security and alarm systems equipped with CCTV cameras

●        Guards in the entryway

●        Emergency buttons

●        Fire extinguisher and fire escapes

●        24/7 supervision

 

4.     Enjoyable Activities

Lastly, ensure that your loved one will experience the best time possible by checking out what exciting programs the community has to offer.

You can have them send you an e-copy of their monthly calendar to see what activities they have for seniors. You can also inform them of your loved one’s beloved hobbies so they can include it in his/her weekly activities.

Make sure that these activities enrich your loved one’s physical, mental, and social well-being. Moreover, there should also be programs or activities involving close family members of each resident to bond over their shared hobby or passion.

Constant social interaction with family and friends are important in strengthening a senior’s mental and social aspect.