When a loved one with dementia can no longer live alone, the necessary decisions can be overwhelming. It is important to find a community that is right for them because it will ensure their safety and provide them with enriching interaction and activities. In order to make your choice easier, use these dementia care questions to screen potential senior living facilities for your loved one:
Daily care
- What is the normal routine for the facility?
- What individual flexibility is available?
- How do you meet individual dietary needs?
- What is the bathing schedule?
- What kinds of activities are available for them to participate in?
- Will Spanish/German/Russian-speaking staff be available 24/7?
- What is the ratio of residents to staff?
Stages
- What stage of Alzheimer’s are most patients experiencing?
- How do you coordinate activities and care for each stage?
Behaviors
- How does the staff handle behavior issues like aggression, anger, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, sundowning, wandering and agitation?
- Should behavior escalate, is there a written plan of response in place?
- How often does the staff attend training courses?
Safety
- What safety measures are in place for wandering seniors?
- Are dangerous objects like knives, tools etc. secured?
- Does the community proactively avoid tripping hazards?
- Are there devices in place to alert staff if a senior begins to wander?
Are these Dementia Care Questions enough?
Although there are many questions you may have about each community, this is a comprehensive list of highlighting a few general concerns. Additionally, you should prepare for each visit with a list of your own questions. Due to these efforts, you will find yourself prepared to make a well-informed decision.
Furthermore, if you would like to know more information about our communities, contact us to schedule a visit to one of our communities. While you are here, ask us some questions to gain a better understanding of who we are.
Click here to view a list of Senior Solutions memory care communities.