Memory care is similar to assisted living, but much different. It is long term care specifically catered to those affected by the varying stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
In the decision to move a loved one to a memory care community, there are a number of questions that arise. Family and friends want what’s best for them in terms of not just safety, but their overall happiness and comfort as well.
Typical Memory Care Services
One of the biggest factors in the decision to move a loved one to memory care is what services are being offered. This constitutes if basic care needs will be met, along with what other opportunities are available to better provide the senior with socialization, enriching activities, and excitement each day.
These communities typically have 24-hour supervision, as well as skilled staff trained to provide care for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Medical help is in close range and medication management is kept on track. Daily tasks such as grooming and bathing are done with assistance, and meal preparation is taken off of you and a loved one’s plate. At The Kensington, our in-house head chef brings delight into each dish that is served through balanced nutrition and exceptional taste.
Therapy is easily accessible in communities, as they most typically have skilled professionals available on-site. Physical, speech, and occupational therapy are some of the few varieties we offer here at The Kensington.
Rehabilitation after an injury that required hospitalization is another unique aspect of some communities. Staff trained in rehabilitation work alongside treatment plans to bring individuals closer to recovery, while also building up strength.
The opportunity for a senior to socialize becomes harder as they age. The beauty of a community is the chance to find a new friend within their age range right outside their door. But in the instance of memory loss, communication can be limited depending on the level of severity. Memory care communities are able to provide an environment for connection through group activities for those at all stages of cognitive decline.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Memory Care Community
In your search for memory care communities, you may eventually find yourself narrowed down to a few options. In order to help know which is the best one, ask as many questions as you can. This will help determine if certain needs and services are more important than others as well.
Here are some question prompts to help get a memory care checklist started:
- Does the community provide varying levels of care?
- What type of training and credentials do the staff have?
- Can rooms be private or semi-private?
- How much personal assistance will my loved one receive?
- How do medical emergencies get handled?
- How is the community secured?
- Are special dietary needs accommodated for?
- How frequently does housekeeping and laundry get done?
- What programs (exercise, physical therapy, social activities, rehabilitation) does this community offer?
- Can this community accommodate special care needs?
- Do residents stay grouped by cognitive level?
- What is the ratio of staff to residents during the day and late at night?
- Will this community communicate about my loved one’s well-being?
- What level of family involvement is present?
On top of all these questions, there are concerns about how the environment of the community feels, how staff seem to interact with residents, and whether this will really feel like home to a loved one. These are answers that may be best found in a tour.
Experience Exceptional Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care
Memory loss is life-altering for not just the one diagnosed. In the early stages, a lot of uncertainty can be expected. A plan of action can help bring a sense of control over the circumstances given.
If you have questions about Alzheimer’s, dementia, and how a memory care community can make the difference in a loved one’s life, speak with a physician that is involved with their treatment. They may even be able to recommend different therapies that should be sought after.
At The Kensington, we promise to love and care for your loved ones as we do our own. Compassion fuels our efforts to bring comfort and familiar routine to residents. We work to capitalize on their strengths and find new ways to bring joy to each day.
We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to care. With our two memory care neighborhoods, varying levels of memory loss have their own haven for specialized care. Enriching programs that bring laughter and joy are never in short supply.
Ask about Alzheimer’s or dementia and what makes our memory care different from the rest, by giving us a call today!
Further Reading:
Memory loss is life changing for all involved. At The Kensington, we provide a state-of-the-art memory care program, a higher staff-to-resident ratio than industry standards, and more advanced care services. Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
For additional resources regarding your loved one’s condition, please read on about our Memory Care, Alzheimer’s Care and Dementia Care.