Making the decision to move your loved one into an assisted living community can be difficult. There are so many different options, it’s hard to know where to start. Choosing an assisted living community or memory care program that fits your needs is imperative. There are many factors to consider, including the type of care needed, location, and even personal preferences.
What are Assisted Living Communities?
Assisted living communities offer residents assistance with daily tasks such as eating, bathing and dressing in addition to 24-hour supervision. They can be independent living communities with varying levels of care. The team members are trained to help residents with their needs as they arise. They can also provide activities for residents, including daily exercise classes. For example, Avanti Senior Living offers their Mind • Body • Strength™ program that focuses on both physical and mental health.
What is Memory Care?
Memory care communities help residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia live a better quality of life. The staff members are trained to assist the resident in their daily activities, such as eating meals, engaging in social activities and medication management so they can live comfortably and safely in the community.
What to Look For In a Memory Care Community?
When looking for a memory care community, it is important to find one that feels like home. The community should be clean and well-maintained with plenty of activities available for residents. Team members should be attentive and compassionate, and there should be 24-hour support on site.
Having a sense of “home” can be important for those with dementia, as it is linked to better quality sleep and less agitation. This also helps them feel safer in the environment they are living in which results in lower rates of depression.
Assisted living communities offer residents assistance with daily tasks such as eating, bathing and dressing in addition to 24-hour supervision. They can be independent living communities with varying levels of care.
Most communities offer activities that help stimulate memory loss residents including brain games, social outings, and music therapy. These activities can be especially helpful for those who may have difficulty recognizing their family or friends. The activities provide a built-in social network among the residents and team members at the community.
What are Some Things to Consider?
In finding the perfect assisted living or memory care program, it’s important to know what type of care your loved one needs. If you’re not sure, here are some questions that will help guide you through the process:
- Do they require assistance with daily tasks?
- Do they have dementia or Alzheimer’s disease?
- Is there another condition requiring memory care services?
Location, Location, Location
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an assisted living community is its location. Is it close to family and friends? Is it easily accessible for visits? If you’re looking for a specific type of care (i.e., memory care), is the community close to a hospital that can provide assistance if needed?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right community for your loved one can be a difficult and emotional decision. You want to make sure that they will be safe, comfortable, and happy in their new home. Finding a place that offers the type of care they need and providing a safe, comfortable place for them to live is important in restoring their sense of independence, while allowing freedom of choice.