As we age, our bodies decline. This is a natural part of life.
Unfortunately, some people also experience a decline in their cognitive abilities. One in seven Americans over the age of 71 will experience dementia. The severity of mental decline varies.
In some cases, people need the help of a memory care facility to continue living out their day-to-day lives. This can be due to the severity of their mental decline or because their family members don’t have the ability to care for them.
In either case, you need to find the best memory care facility for your loved one and we want to help. Keep reading for everything you need to know about choosing the right assisted living and memory care community.
Ask People You Know for Advice
Because dementia is so common in the elderly, you probably know people who have parents or grandparents suffering from similar issues. Talk to friends, family members, and co-workers to learn more about the memory care facilities in your area. Do they have any recommendations?
If not, log onto your Facebook page and join a community group. Here, you can ask thousands of members of your community for suggestions.
Read Online Facility Reviews
Before choosing a memory care facility for your loved one, do a little more research online. Visit the websites of the top assisted living facilities in the area to learn more about their reputation in the community. What do the residents and the resident’s family members have to say about the facility and staff?
Does the facility seem to provide quality memory care? Is the staff well-trained and compassionate? Is the facility clean and well-maintained?
Learn More About the Staff and Community
Of course, when choosing an assisted living community, you also need to make sure your loved one will be happy there. Find out more about the community aspect of the facility.
What types of activities are available for the residents? Do they have health and fitness options? What about games, movies, and arts and crafts, and other fun activities?
Schedule a Tour
Finally, take a tour of the memory care community before you make any decisions. Talking to people over the phone and looking through websites can only teach you so much.
The assisted living facility you’re interested in should be willing to provide you and your loved one with an in-depth tour of the community. This will give you a good understanding of the type of environment in which your loved one will live out the rest of their life.
While touring, try to get a feel for the staff and their attentiveness. Is this a place you would feel comfortable leaving your loved one?
Are You Looking for a Memory Care Facility?
Choosing a memory care facility is a big decision. Don’t rush the process or make a decision without doing your homework. Follow our guide to identifying the right assisted living option for your loved one.
And if you’re looking for more lifestyle advice, we have more to offer. Read through some of our other articles to find more helpful insight and information.
