With so many memory care communities available in the United States, it’s understandable that it can get somewhat overwhelming to choose one that’s best suited for your needs. Before deciding to go with memory care, it’s important to understand the special features of this care option. Memory care communities are specially designed for older adults living with various forms of dementia and require a high level of care in order to function daily. As such, residents in a memory care community are offered 24/7 assistance from caregivers in most day-to-day tasks, from feeding during mealtimes to bathing and taking medications. As such, if you’re looking for specialized care that provides extra support, this particular community is the way to go. Here are some ways to help you find the right memory care community.
Pay a Visit
Even though most retirement communities provide pictures of their amenities and living spaces on their websites, nothing beats experiencing the place first-hand. Some communities like SummerHouse Bay Cove offer guided tours, which allow you and a loved one to visit the place before committing to a decision. This is particularly helpful as it provides you with an opportunity to explore the community and see if the amenities and features are to your liking. During these visits, you can evaluate the overall cleanliness of the place and get a feel of the culture, which cannot be experienced just by looking at some photos online. For example, if you’re an introvert, you most likely won’t enjoy being in a community that’s filled with extroverted residents.
Training and Experience of Team Members
As you pay a visit to the community, you can also take this opportunity to witness the interaction between residents and team members. When it comes to memory care, each team member is assigned to one resident in order to provide a more tailored and personalized care approach. Observe the team members in action and how they treat the residents. In addition, you should find out the qualifications of the team members and their experiences. An ideal memory care community should have a mix of registered nurses, medical professionals, and licensed caregivers who are trained in taking care of older adults dealing with dementia or forms of cognitive impairment.
Medical Emergencies
In the case of medical emergencies, it’s crucial for the memory care community to have a standard procedure in order to prevent accidents from occurring. When you’re researching a community, do keep in mind to ask questions about the emergency medical plans and how team members respond to such cases while ensuring your safety and comfort. At the end of the day, you’ll want to receive the best of care without sacrificing your peace of mind.
Meals
Having a well-balanced diet plays an important role in leading a healthier lifestyle and improving cognitive function. Another benefit of touring the memory care community is that you’re able to try out the meals provided and see if they’re to your liking. This is especially crucial for those who follow a strict diet as you want to make sure that the community can accommodate your nutritional needs.
