December 2, 2018 - Peregrine Perspective
Your Checklist for How to Choose a Memory Care Community
Navigating your options when it comes to assisted living, especially for someone in need of memory care, can be quite challenging. Unfortunately, at some point you will be forced to make difficult decisions when it comes to the health and wellness of your aging parent or loved one. Dealing with memory loss in your loved one is a difficult situation to begin with, but it becomes even more complex when you begin to consider options for long-term care.
Most cognitive impairments, including Alzheimer’s and dementia, are progressive diseases. This means that over time, they will get worse and your loved one will require long-term, constant care. By knowing what to look for when choosing a memory care community, you can be prepared to ask the right questions and vet your options before things get worse.
Questions to Ask a Memory Care Community
The conversation regarding senior care for your parents is not an easy one. Your main goal is to find a memory care community that can offer the highest quality of life, while providing the full-time assistance they need.
Below is a list of questions to ask when visiting potential memory care communities:
Health and Safety
- What kind of training do staff members have?
- What is the patient-to-caregiver ratio? Is staff available 24/7?
- Is there a visiting physician or nurse on duty 24 hours a day?
- What medical services are available on-site?
- Does your memory care facility believe in individualized care plans?
Memory Care Facility Amenities and Activities
- What do the living areas look and feel like?
- Are there specific programs geared toward Alzheimer’s and dementia patients?
- Do you offer holistic therapies (ex. music therapy, pet therapy, light therapy, etc.)?
- Do you schedule events and activities that prevent isolation and encourage socialization?
- Do you provide services for family members, like support groups or caregiver education?
These questions are a good starting point, but the most important questions you can ask about any memory care community are: Will my loved one be comfortable here? And will they feel at home and safe? If you feel a sense of warmth and comfort when you visit a memory care community, odds are, so will your parent or loved one.
When it comes to choosing a dementia care community, go with your gut. This is a stressful and scary time for your loved one and for yourself. Try to find a community that will support your loved one and that will support you during this major life transition.
Ultimately, you need to make your choice based on the individualized needs of your loved one. No one knows them better than you do. Look for a memory care community that stimulates their interests, offers spiritual growth, and provides the 24-hour care they need.
Peregrine Senior Living Offers Personalized Memory Care Services and Support
Peregrine Senior Living is an assisted living community built on our guiding philosophy, The Peregrine Way®. We believe in a highly individualized care and support for our memory care residents. Learn about our unique offerings or call to schedule a tour of our community so you can feel confident in the decision you make for your loved one’s future.
