6 Tips For Finding The Memory Care Community That Suits Your Loved One’s Needs
At a time when a senior loved one needs memory care, a lot of things are coming to mind. There is a mix of concern and uncertainty about what to do. However, one thing you’ll want to consider before moving forward after a difficult conversation about placement in memory care is deciding which community is the best fit for a senior loved one. This guide will go over six tips on choosing the best option for them.
Be sure to carefully follow this guide before making a final decision regarding your senior loved one’s living arrangements. While their memory-related conditions may be tough to contend with, you’ll want them in the best of hands when it comes to the care they receive.
1. Know What Memory Care Offers
The first thing to know about is what memory care communities offer for their residents. These communities are specially created for individuals who are experiencing memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s, different types of dementia, and other conditions. What makes these communities an excellent choice is that it offers a safe and secure environment and a structured routine for senior residents. Also, the staff are specially trained to handle individuals with dementia.
Your senior loved one receives 24/7 oversight while being able to enjoy activities that will enrich their lifestyle. Plus, they get the excellent support they need when it comes to their physical, cognitive and emotional wellness. A high-quality memory care community will always prioritize the health and safety of their residents.
2. Visit The Community and Get A Tour
Visiting the community in person will give you a better look at what it looks like. Plus, it goes beyond the pictures and videos you’d see on a website or brochure. As you tour the community, you’ll want to be observant of what’s going on including staff and resident interactions, noise levels and sensory stimulation, the cleanliness and upkeep, and if the residents appear engaged and comfortable. These details are key in deciding if a certain memory care community is the best fit for your senior loved one or not.
3. Inquire About Staff Ratios and Training
Inquiring about staff ratios can give you an idea of how many staff members they are to one individual in need of high-quality care. On top of that, it will help you gauge how attentive and well-trained the staff is. Don’t be afraid to ask questions as to whether staff get ongoing training to handle a senior’s memory care needs.
Familiarity and routine are two pillars to a community’s setting. Having a consistent, long-term staff that understands this will give you and your senior loved one confidence and peace of mind knowing that there is a long-standing trust between residents and caregivers alike.
4. Observe and Evaluate Activities and Daily Routines
An excellent memory care community is designed to nurture all of its residents. This is done through regular activities and daily routines. Each program is also specially designed to accompany individuals based on their stages of memory loss. These activities include but are not limited to:
- Music therapy
- Gentle exercise or walking groups
- Sensory engagement activities
- Art or craft sessions
- Reminiscence sessions
These days are well-structured, calming, and serve the purpose of engaging individuals. The goal is to ensure less confusion, restlessness, and anxiety among community residents. If they are comfortable, engaged, and participate in community activities without additional issues, this is a good sign.
5. Be Aware Of Safety Features And Designs
Safety should always be a top, non-negotiable priority for memory care communities. One thing to clear up is that a secure environment doesn’t mean it’s restrictive. Instead, it means that the spaces are designed to help residents maintain their safety and decrease risks as little to non-existent as possible. During your tour of the community, look for features including:
- Entrances and exits that are secure
- Fall-prevention grab bars and flooring
- Signs that are clearly written
- Layouts that are open and clearly planned out
- Outdoor spaces that are enclosed for safe walking
Physical safety and preserving the autonomy and mobility of residents will all be key. These safety features will prioritize comfort and clarity while making sure your loved one is safe at all times.
6. Coordinate With Families And Staff Members
Communication between staff and family members is always critical, whether a senior is transitioning or already settled into a community. You’ll want to ask staff members how families are updated on the well-being of their senior loved one. Ask questions about a regular communication or visitation schedule. In addition, ask how easy it is to inquire with a staff member about any concerns you might have regarding your senior loved one. Finally, discuss care plans and ask when they are reviewed and updated to ensure they are staying on top of each resident’s needs.
Make Lynridge of Waco A Place You Can Trust For Your Senior Loved One
At Lynridge of Waco, we believe that high-quality memory care is our priority. Our highly trained staff is compassionate, caring, and always attentive to our residents’ needs. We offer specialized care, structure, therapeutic activities, and hold safety in the highest regard. To see if we are a good fit, schedule a tour of our community today!
