Important Questions to Ask a Memory Care Facility

Memory care is a distinct type of long-term care. It’s specifically designed to meet the unique needs of an individual suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other types of memory issues.

Before selecting a memory care option, it’s a good idea to compile a list of questions that will cover a person’s concerns about their senior loved one’s care, safety, and comfort.

What Level of Care Does the Facility Provide?

When looking into various memory care facilities, it’s important to find out about the level of care a facility provides. There are some that only help with the basics, such as ensuring the senior does not wander off or become injured.

However, other facilities provide therapy, counseling, socialization activities and more to help those suffering from memory issues live the best life possible. It’s important to ask this question before choosing a location.

What Type of Training has the Staff Received?

Seniors suffering from any type of cognitive impairment may need additional care and assistance. They may also become combative sometimes due to their confusion.

It is important to make sure the staff at the facility being considered has been properly trained to handle these situations safely. By doing this, family members can have peace of mind their senior loved one will be well-cared for and safe.

What is the Cost of the Facility and What Does that Fee Cover?

There are some insurance plans that cover memory care services, while others don’t. It’s important to find out what the fee is for the services of a facility on a monthly basis are, and what that fee includes.

For example, are meals included, or is that extra? Can additional money be paid for the senior to get a private room? Are there field trips or social activities that require an additional fee?

Ideally, a person should look for a facility that provides a single, flat rate for all services and activities.

What Level of Personal Assistance Do Residents Receive?

When looking into a memory care facility, it’s important to find out how much personal help and assistance a resident is going to receive on a daily basis.

For example, if a person’s senior loved one needs help getting dressed or brushing their hair, is there going to be someone available to provide this help? Be sure to find out what level of help is given and determine if this is adequate for the senior in question.

What Type of Security Features Does the Facility Have in Place?

The security of any memory care facility is important as seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s or another memory problem may wander. Ideally, a facility should have some type of access control system for the doors, as well as a surveillance system to ensure residents are safe at all times.

Finding the Right Memory Care Facility Takes Time and Patience

Not all memory care locations are going to be right for the senior in question. As a result, it is a good idea for family members to ensure they take their time and find the facility that is going to be able to best suit their senior’s needs. In the long run, this will pay off, as they can have peace of mind their loved one is safe, cared for, and healthy.