Questions to Ask to Find the Best Memory Care Community for Your Loved One

According to the CDC, 34% of residents in long-term care communities have Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Once you have recognized the signs that it’s time for memory care, choosing a memory care community for a loved one is a significant decision. This is an emotional and overwhelming time, and finding a memory care community that will keep your loved one safe and happy is crucial. 

You want a community that will care for your loved one the same way (or better) as you do. You just need a little guidance to help you find a memory care community that checks all the boxes. Once you’ve identified a few memory care communities in your area, you want to ensure you have the knowledge and tools to choose the best community for your loved one.

Knowing what memory care questions to ask before touring a community is essential to finding the best community. 

Make sure you’re prepared with a list of memory care questions to ask during your tour or meeting with the community director. The more questions you ask, the better. You’re interviewing the community team to ensure this is the best community for you and your loved one.

These memory care questions will help you find the best community for your loved one.

Memory Care Questions Regarding the Community

Memory care communities vary regarding amenities, services, pricing, and activities. Consider the specific needs of your loved one to make sure you get the information needed to make the best decision.

During the tour of the community, make observations and ask the following questions:

• What types of accommodations are currently available?
• Are living spaces furnished?
• How many meals and snacks are provided daily?
• Do you offer housekeeping and laundry services?
• Do you help with activities of daily living (ADLs)?
• What activities are available for residents?
• What does a typical day-in-the-life of a memory care resident look like?
• Do you have memory-enhancing activities and programs?
• What is your pricing structure? What’s covered?
• What amenities are available to residents?

 

Memory Care Questions Regarding Staff 

You want to ensure the people responsible for your loved one’s care are compassionate, educated, and well trained. 

Interact with, observe staff, and ask the following questions:

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
• Are staff trained to care for people with dementia?
• What type of dementia techniques does the staff use?
• Are there RNs and physicians on staff or on call?
• Do staff members have certifications or degrees in memory care?
• Does staff receive ongoing training?
• What is your turnover rate?
• Are staff available 24/7?
• Are background checks performed?

 

Memory Care Questions Regarding Safety

Safety is arguably an essential concern for families looking for memory care communities. People with dementia are prone to wandering and injuries. 

Getting satisfactory answers to these safety-related questions is vital: 

• Do you have 24-hour supervised care?
• What are your emergency protocols?
• How do you handle medical emergencies?
• Do you have 24/7 security?
• Do you have emergency alert systems? If so, what are they?
• Do you have keypad entry technology?
• Are there alarms on exits?

About Notre Dame Health Care:

Notre Dame Health Care (NDHC) offers a range of post-acute programs and services to the community, including an Assisted Living Residence; Adult & Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care; Post-Acute Recuperation; Short-Term Rehabilitation; Skilled Nursing and traditional Long Term Care; Specialized Memory Care; and an educational resource center which serves our employees and community. We embrace the individuality, spirituality, and wholeness of each member of our community, including our residents, patients, families, volunteers, and staff.

Notre Dame Health Care is proudly non-profit and honored to carry on the mission of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur to care for the sick and vulnerable and to educate for life through our NDHC Educational Bridge Center.

Notre Dame Health Care
555-559 Plantation Street
Worcester, MA 01605
(508) 852-5800
notredamehealthcare.org