Memory Care — How to Find the Right Facility
Alzheimer’s / Dementia facilities are specialized living arrangements for seniors with memory impairments that have progressed to the point where they can no longer communicate normally and/or take care of themselves. Besides a room and meals in a common dining area, these facilities provide constant supervision, formal nursing care plans, help with activities of daily living (ADLs) and personalized care designed to offer patients as much mental and memory stimulation as possible.
There are no special licensing requirements for a facility to call itself an Alzheimer’s / Dementia or Memory Care unit. So, don’t assume from the name alone that it will provide adequate care for your loved one. The only way to find out if the facility meets your needs is to visit it and know what to look for.
Some Alzheimer’s / Dementia facilities are free-standing. However, many patients also require other services provided by nursing homes and assisted living facilities. As a result, many nursing homes and assisted living facilities include separate on-site Alzheimer’s / Dementia units.
Here’s our Memory Care Checklist. It should be used along with the Assisted Living Facility Checklist or Nursing Home Checklist, depending upon which type of facility you are considering. Take the appropriate checklist along with this one when you tour each facility. Bear in mind that the staff’s attitude and philosophy about caring for residents with Alzheimer’s / Dementia should be reflected throughout the facility, from architectural design to nursing care plans, meal preparation and planned activities.
A Place for Mom can help you find the right senior care services for your loved one. A Place for Mom has established a nationwide network of carefully screened senior care providers and facilities — everything from home care and assisted living to specialized memory care facilities. We are pleased to bring their referral service to you free of charge. (A Place for Mom is paid by their participating senior care providers and facilities.)
Their knowledgeable and compassionate Senior Living Advisors will guide you through your search and can provide local support and resources. Let A Place for Mom help you online or call toll-free (877) 311-6092.