How to Choose the Right Memory Care Program

The Alzheimer’s Association says that an estimated 5.5 million adults age 65 and older in the United States have Alzheimer’s dementia, and an estimated 5.7 million adults of all ages (including early onset Alzheimer’s) are currently living with Alzheimer’s dementia in the United States.

We know how difficult it can get to care for someone with Alzheimer's disease or dementia at home. You may want to consider memory care. Memory care is a form of residential long-term care that provides intensive, specialized care for people with memory issues. Specially trained staff deliver personalized care focused on keeping your loved one comfortable, engaged, and safe.

Choosing a Memory Care Program

You want only the best of the best for you and your loved ones. We do, too. So here’s a list of factors you’ve got to consider when choosing the right memory care program:

Physical Environment – Is the facility clean, pleasant, and brightly lit? Do they have an outdoor space for residents to walk around? Are there labels and arrows to help them find their way? How secure is the place?

Staff – As you interview local memory care facilities, be mindful of these questions and considerations:

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and night?
• Is there a medical professional, such as a doctor or nurse, on staff 24/7?
• What type of memory care training has the staff received?
• How do they respond when a patient becomes confused or combative?
• How often do they provide updates on the resident’s health and well-being?
• Does the facility perform background checks on their employees?

Food – You also have to consider the food options. What are their meal plans? 

Activities – Services and activities in memory care programs are focused on stimulating your loved one cognitively and physically are an essential part of memory care. Does the program include art therapy? Exercise? Music therapy? Arts and crafts? Games?

If you think your loved one is going to need memory care, you have to carefully plan it. Note these considerations to ensure that you choose the right program for your loved one.