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What Should You Look for in a Memory Care Facility?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
When looking for a memory care facility, you should consider its design, care capabilities and therapeutic programming. This facility will be your loved one’s new home, which means comfort and safety are priorities. Look for facilities offering homelike furnishings and decor, security measures to prevent wandering and staff specially trained to deliver personalized care.
Cognitive stimulation is also essential in memory care. Most communities provide a range of activities, including sensory exercises or brain games, to help support cognitive skills for individuals with dementia. Review a community’s cognitive activities or therapies to see if they align with your loved one’s needs and preferences before making final decisions.How do you choose the right memory care facility?
Choosing the right memory care facility depends on your loved one’s needs, interests and current abilities. During early stages of dementia, a continuing care retirement community or assisted living may be a good place to start. These communities offer on-site amenities, social activities and personalized daily living support. Some even have specialized memory care units or buildings, facilitating an easy transition to more intensive care as your loved one’s condition progresses.
Those in moderate to late stages of dementia may benefit from moving directly to memory care. Pay attention to your loved one’s symptoms and what they need the most help with. If wandering is an issue, a community with strong security measures may be best. However, if music helps them relax, consider a facility with a comprehensive music therapy program, enabling access to soothing activities in their new environment.
How to help a loved one transition to memory care
Helping a loved one transition to memory care can be difficult, especially if you aren’t sure how they’ll react to new surroundings. Moving to a new location can exacerbate anxiety and agitation, making it crucial to monitor your loved one’s behavior and take necessary precautions. Ask how they’re feeling through every transitional stage, from packing to arranging their new living space. This can help them feel a sense of control over the situation and reaffirm their thoughts and concerns matter.
Additionally, prioritize meaningful or comforting items, including family photographs, artwork and favorite blankets, when packing. These can personalize your loved one’s new living space, creating a calming, homelike environment to ease anxiety and make adjusting easier.