Memory care facilities are all about that extra bit of care for your loved ones than assisted living facilities. Keep in mind that when you are looking for a greater degree of skilled care, medical supervision all-around the clock, then you should check out memory care facilities near you. Memory care units are highly recommended in older adults with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other slow-progressing disorders that require specialized assistance.
But the critical question is how to make sure that you are choosing the right memory care unit? There are several essential areas for you to consider, and that means you need all the info. Once you have all the info you can make a better selection for a loved one or yourself. Before selecting a memory care unit near you, it is vital to keep in mind the following features.
When safety is a concern
Memory care units are all about specialized care and security packages to maintain the residents’ safety. There are features in various memory care facilities where the apartments might look like independent living quarters, but the kitchen will have inactive stoves to promote safety.
Expert memory care facilities in Chicago are famous for their regular security checks and professional staff that put extra effort into maintaining their safety and security. It is vital for patients with active dementia and Alzheimer’s to keep track of them to prevent cases of wandering off. However, memory care units are usually walled and circular compounds so that residents can explore the premises without getting lost.
Staff training
For memory care communities, the staff to patient ratio is generally high because residents require extra care and management. It is vital to keep in mind that you need to look into the staff’s training and experience when you are looking for the right memory care unit. This is key because as the staff, he/she should understand the manifestation of the disease in every resident and treat disruptive behavior patiently. Training is essential for efficient communication with the residents as well.
Personalized care
A right dementia care center will ensure that they have all the information regarding a patient to develop the perfect personalized strategy to deal with the circumstances. According to medical professionals, personalized care is vital for the best care and treatment of elderly individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. It would help if you remembered that there is a human being inside everybody, and therefore you need to find a service that resonates with similar thoughts regarding personalized care.
Therapy programs and activities
Here is another factor that you need to keep in mind regarding choosing a memory care facility. Remember that various therapy programs aim at improving the quality of life of the residents. These programs are critical to dementia therapy. The activities aim to enhance the sense of dignity and self-esteem to improve cases of wandering, behavioral troubles, and other impairment issues. Keep in mind that the recent advancements in behavioral therapy try to engage the individual in a “failure-free” approach – it emphasizes assets and not deficits.
For example, while playing board games or any other group program, the coordinator won’t correct a wrong move willingly, emphasizing that participation and the interaction counts and not the failure or even the result. Discuss the treatment strategies openly with the specialist while staking out a memory care community and make sure the treatment is up to date with the latest techniques.
The environment
Dementia and Alzheimer’s both are quite mind-altering and brain ability damaging disorders. The affected individuals can stay confused and stressed all through the day. Therefore, it is quite critical to make sure that the memory care center’s environment is stress-free and relaxing at all times. This can be achieved through colors, wall paintings, art, aquariums, and several other aesthetically pleasing features.
Memory communities are supposed to look and feel like home and not like an institution with strict laws in place. Several memory care communities will have on-site healthcare and medical experts, and the Snoezelen room, a multisensory room to reduce agitation and anxiety.
We understand that choosing the right memory care center can be quite challenging, especially since there are so many choices in every part of the country. However, armed with all the information and a little bit of research to make sure that your choice passes your checklist test, you will surely make the right decision. This will ensure that your loved one keeps receiving the best possible care even during the darkest days.
If you are looking to provide the best care to your loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s, then make sure you choose the right memory care community in your locality. All you need is a bit of background research, and you are set.