Questions to Ask When Considering Memory Care for a Loved One
If you or a loved one is facing an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, it can feel overwhelming. Choosing a memory care community is a deeply personal and often emotional decision. You want to ensure your family member is safe and supported, but it can be challenging to know where to start. Asking the right questions can provide clarity and help you make the best decision suited to your family member or loved one.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind.
1. Care and Support Staff
First, recognize and list the needs and behaviors of your mom or dad. For example, do they exhibit agitation or attempt to exit living spaces? You’ll want to match their needs to the specialties of the staff.
Learn how the staff addresses medical needs and emergencies that may arise. Check if they have physical and occupational therapists on-site. See if you can continue to use your loved one’s healthcare provider, or if they have visiting doctors.
A crucial question to ask is about the staff-to-resident ratios, particularly during nights and weekends. You’ll also want to be aware if they have specialized training in memory care.
At Providence, our staff receives 12 hours of specialized memory care training each year—exceeding the industry standard. This equips them to compassionately manage memory-related behaviors and respond to emergencies with confidence.
2. Safety and Security
Peace of mind often begins with safety, and safety is of the utmost importance for your parents. Memory care facilities typically include safety measures and protocols, such as keypad entry systems and secured windows. Ask how the community prevents people from wandering around the other parts of campus or outside.
Ask about emergency procedures and fall/balance monitoring systems. Also, check whether the environment is designed for residents with mobility or cognitive challenges.
3. Daily Life and Activities
Discover what a typical day looks like and whether it’s centered around the individual’s needs. Find out what your loved one will be doing all day. Social engagement is significant for people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Does the community offer planned activities and entertainment? Ask if they can tailor activities to different levels of ability. Does the staff encourage family involvement in both care and visitation?
Research shows that engaging multiple senses can help spark memories, which is why Providence communities offer a wide variety of activities for residents.
4. Living Spaces and Environment
In addition to asking for or looking at floor plans, visit the community. Ask about types of rooms, personalization options, and comfort features.
Explore outdoor spaces, walking paths, and safe areas that promote independence. Consider how the environment supports both calm and mental stimulation.
5. Services
With any level of care, you want to know what services are included in the monthly fee. Do they have housekeeping, laundry, spiritual services, and wellness programs? Also, inquire about additional amenities and their associated costs, such as salon/barber services or a gift shop.
Most communities provide assistance with daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, and mobility. Be sure to ask whether these services are included in the monthly fee or billed separately.
6. Meals & Nutrition
Memory care communities should provide three nutritious meals daily. Some also offer beverages and snacks throughout the day. Determine if meals are served at a set schedule, if they are served family-style, and if anyone monitors their food intake.
You should also inquire about any dietary accommodations and support available for residents with swallowing or eating difficulties, even if you don’t currently require the service. Tastes and preferences can change over time. It’s helpful to know whether the menu can be modified to accommodate those changes.
7. Family Communication & Involvement
Strong communication with staff can give families assurance that mom or dad is safe and happy. Discover how the community keeps families informed about changes in health and care. Some facilities offer family support groups to help deal with issues related to the disease.
Ask about family meetings or opportunities to participate in activities. Confirm the visiting policies to determine the available visiting days and times.
8. Costs & Financial Considerations
Clarify what’s included in the monthly fee and what may incur additional costs. It’s also important to ask what happens if a resident’s financial resources change. Each community will have different plans, depending on whether it is a life plan community.
You can also ask about financial planning support. Learn about what happens if their level of care exceeds what the community offers. Ask about the discharge policy so you’re not taken by surprise should the need arise.
9. Reputation & References
When visiting a community, you can ask to see the survey/inspection report. Understand how the facility handles complaints or concerns.
Ask for references from the families of current residents. Many communities include testimonials on their websites, and online reviews can also provide helpful insight from families.
Additional Considerations
Consider visiting multiple communities to compare and make an informed decision. Make unannounced visits, preferably in the evening and around mealtime. It’s also a good idea to check if they offer hospice or end-of-life care on-site to avoid any surprises.
Write down any questions that are important to your family. Remember, asking questions is not only welcomed but encouraged. It’s an important part of making the best choice for your loved one and your family.
