Are you or other family members feeling overwhelmed by the increasingly difficult needs of a loved one who is suffering from dementia/Alzheimer's? You're not alone. As dementia progresses, round-the-clock care is often necessary, which can be very challenging for caregivers. Family caregiving also might not be the safest solution for your loved one.
In this situation, it's a good idea to look into memory care center options. When you do, come prepared with a list of questions. Here are six questions that we often receive:
1. How does a memory care center differ from other types of senior living communities?
Many memory care centers are purpose-built for individuals with dementia/Alzheimer's. Unlike other communities that care for residents with memory loss as well as other conditions, a dedicated memory care center is completely focused on taking care of those with memory loss. For example, special attention is placed on providing a secure and safe environment designed to reduce the dangers associated with common dementia behaviors, such as wandering. Also, residents may be grouped into specific villages so that those with similar disease stages stay together. This helps staff more effectively address their particular needs and challenges.
2. What kind of care is provided in a memory care center?
Many offer families the option of a private or semi-private room. The living environment should be clean, safe, secure and home-like. The center should provide 24-hour supervised care, assistance with bathing and hygiene, and medication management. Your loved one should receive help dressing if needed and there should be routine laundry service so mom or dad always have their own clean clothes. You should be able to personalize their room with family photos and other treasured keepsakes.
3. What type of training does staff undergo so they know how to deal with my loved one's disease?
There are excellent dementia behavioral, environmental and programming strategies and evidence-based tools that have been created to deliver a high level of care. Look for a center where staff undergoes rigorous training in dementia care, and one which offers continuing education programs to reinforce and update staff skills. Staff should treat residents like their own beloved family members.
4. How do I know that my loved one's particular needs will be met?
Make sure the memory care team offers to develop a personalized care plan with you, your family and your ill loved one at the center of the plan. Revisit the plan periodically. Stay involved with your loved one's care and make unexpected visits at different times, on different days, to see what's going on and ensure that your loved one is safe and well cared for. Find out whether the center offers programs for the entire family, as these can be both educational and comforting.
5. Will my loved one be isolated and alone?
There is typically a common room where all residents can be together. A good memory care community will provide a wide range of activities that entertain and stimulate the brain, such as art, music and other activities. Talk to the activity director and ask about the programs offered for your loved one's particular cognitive level.
6. What about meals?
Regular meal and snack times with healthy and appetizing food are typically provided and any dietary restrictions addressed. You should be welcome to share mealtimes together with your loved one. Make sure staff regularly monitor your loved one's eating habits and make diet adjustments as needed; they should be able to help with feeding, if that becomes necessary.
What other questions can we answer for you?
