When the time comes that a loved one is no longer able to safely remain in their homes due to dementia, the options, questions and choices can be overwhelming. The key to a content senior is having them in the right community that will ensure their safety and provide them with interaction and activities that will continue to enrich their lives. Use these screening questions when evaluating dementia care in Tennessee:
Daily care
- What is the normal routine for the facility?
- What flexibility is available for each individual?
- What is the bathing schedule?
- What kinds of activities are there for them to participate in?
- How do you ensure their dietary needs are met?
- Do you have 24 hour coverage of staff that speaks Spanish/German/Russian etc.?
- What is the staffing ratio?
Stages
- What stage of Alzheimer’s are the majority of the patients experiencing?
- What is the mix (early/middle/late) of the patients in the community?
- How are activities and care coordinated for each stage?
Behaviors
- How does the staff handle behavior issues like aggression, anger, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, sundowning, wandering and agitation?
- Is there a written plan in place when behaviors escalate?
- How often does the staff attend new or refresher training courses?
Safety
- What safety measures are in place for those seniors who wander?
- Are dangerous objects like knives, tools etc. secured?
- Are the rooms equipped with monitoring or summoning devices?
- Is the community safely set up to avoid tripping hazards?
These are just a few of the many questions you will want and need to ask the community that you are considering moving your senior loved one into. For more information, contact us to schedule a visit to one of our communities.
What questions would you ask a dementia care community?
