What Should I Look for in A Memory Care Community?

What’s should you look for in a community? As our loved one’s age, we may find the need for additional care for them to remain happy and healthy.  Moving your loved one into any senior living community is a big decision for every family, so here are a few things you should look for when moving them into a memory care community.

‍A Secure and Safe Environment

One of the top priorities for those who suffer from memory related diseases is a safe and secure living environment. This is carried out in a couple different ways first being 24/7 on site staff for residents. This is beneficial in memory care communities because things can be quite confusing for those with Dementia and Alzheimer's, so it really helps to always have care staff present. Doors and entrance ways are also closely monitored to make sure no residents accidentally wander off. Easy to navigate floor plans along with lots of natural light are also great for those with memory related diseases. If your loved one enjoys the outdoors you may look for a community that has good enclosed outdoor space.  

‍Adaptable Care Plans

Diseases and people both change and progress with time so do their needs. When initially moving your loved one into a community they may have early stage dementia and be somewhat independent. That may change over time as the disease progresses and you want a community that will be very flexible with these changes. Care plans can also be changed due to non-Alzheimer's related reasons such as mobility and when this happens you want a community who will adapt to care for your loved one.  

‍Highly Trained Care Team

Many memory care communities often have care staff that have undergone additional training, or are specialized in caring for those who suffer from memory related illnesses. When looking for a community, you want to find one with friendly and knowledgeable staff. Another good thing to look for a care staff that values continuing education to keep up with the most recent dementia care techniques. When moving your loved ones into a community the staff there will be the ones, they may engage with the most so it is especially important to make sure you think your loved one can thrive under their care.

‍Ask Questions

No one knows your loved ones as well as you do. When you visit different communities, it is important that you ask questions and get answers. The staff is there to best take care of your loved ones and they want to help you find the right fit. If your loved one has certain habits or needs, you should bring these up to their potential caretakers. This is a big decision and will most likely be the final home for your loved ones so take your time and visit multiple communities before you make the choice.

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Regardless of your choice, your mom is good hands. For example, Brookdale, which has a little under 10 communities in Chicagoland, offers a private companion, trained staff 24 hours a day, personal assistance, and so much more. Whether in Barrington, Lake Barrington, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Naperville, Bull Valley, Crystal Lake, Schaumberg, and the City of Chicago, senior living communities care options for your loved ones. Contact us to get in touch with a certified advisor who knows your area.