Factors to Consider When Choosing a Memory Care Community

If you are searching for high quality memory care communities, consider visiting Geer Village Gardenside Lodge.

Memory care is a specialized type of elder care specifically for the needs of seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. A memory care community offers an individualized approach to dementia care that caters to the needs of each resident within a safe, structured environment staffed by those who are specially trained to care for individuals with cognitive impairment. These communities offer residents help with bathing, grooming, and other daily tasks, as well as secured areas that allow safe movement without the risk of wandering off. They also offer activities to keep residents engaged and active.

When it comes to finding the right memory care community for your loved one, questions about the costs and services provided may come to mind. But, memory care communities offer a range of services, some of which might be more important to your loved one than others.

When you are considering a memory care community for a parent or loved one, you should try to make sure that the care that’s provided is closely aligned with your loved one’s needs. Before choosing a memory care option, you may want to compile a list of questions and considerations that cover your concerns about your loved one’s care, comfort and safety.

Does the staff appear to be knowledgeable and caring?
What kind and how many hours of training has the staff had?
How long have the caretakers been at the community?
What is the staffing ratio during the day and at night?
Is there an individual care plan for each resident?
Do the community’s philosophy of care and treatment programs resonate with you?
What does the physical layout of the place look like? You want a place that feels like home. It should be free of excessive clutter, but not too neat that it does not feel lived in.
Are there environmental cues to help orient the residents to various parts of the community? Are there personal markers by each room, e.g. pictures, memory boxes, etc.
How are the rooms/apartments? Are they shared? Are they small, with little opportunity for privacy? Are they personalized to reflect the person’s unique tastes, and personality? Can residents bring personal items and furniture? Can residents listen to music and watch TV in their room? What is the bathroom situation? Having one’s own bathroom contributes to one’s sense of dignity.
Do the residents use the communal areas or do they look staged?
Pay attention to environmental factors. What is the noise level? Can residents choose between quiet and social spaces? How is the lighting? The place should be light and airy.
It is also important for the persons to have ready access to ample and pleasant outdoor space. Can they safely venture out on their own, or do they have to wait for someone to take them on a walk?
Look at the building maintenance. Wheelchairs frequently scuff the door jams and chip paint. Some wear is normal, but it shouldn’t look neglected. Furniture should be clean and easy for residents to use. Floors should be clean. Carpet should not be stained. Bathroom and dining areas should be clean and free of odor.

To help you choose the best facility, consider writing a list of priorities before you schedule your visits. This way, you can keep your loved one’s needs and wellbeing in mind every step of the way. Your diligence will pay off when they are happy and cared for.

The professional staff at Geer Village Senior Community has a plethora of resources at hand to provide to families in need of direction as they navigate the senior health care system. They are available to provide 1:1 consultation or to readily offer other significant materials in order to assist with decision making efforts.

Call 860-824-2600 to or click here to schedule your consultation!