Questions to Ask When Touring Memory Care Communities

As the number of Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer’s continues to rise, finding the right memory care community becomes more important than ever. Nearly 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, and by 2050, that number is expected to increase to around 13 million, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. With this growing need, touring memory care communities to find the best fit for your loved one is critical.

However, knowing the right questions to ask can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential questions to ask during your visit to ensure the community provides the right level of care and quality of life.

1. What Training Does the Staff Receive?

Memory care staff play a crucial role in supporting residents. Their training is key to understanding how well they’ll care for your loved one. Questions for memory care communities should start by addressing the level and frequency of staff training.

• Is staff training ongoing, and how often do they update their skills
• Do team members receive specific training for Alzheimer’s and dementia care
• What techniques are used to handle challenging behaviors, like wandering or aggression
• Are staff members trained to de-escalate situations and manage emergencies

2. How Are Care Plans Personalized?

Each resident’s needs vary, and a personalized care plan ensures that your loved one receives the right level of support. Ask how memory care communities tailor their services to individual residents.

• How are care plans developed for new residents
• Are families involved in creating and updating the care plans
• How often are care plans reviewed and adjusted

3. What Kind of Daily Activities Are Provided?

Keeping residents mentally, physically, and emotionally engaged is crucial in touring senior care communities. Activities help maintain cognitive function, enhance mood, and provide a sense of routine.

• What types of activities are offered daily
• Are there options that align with my loved one’s interests or hobbies
• How does the community ensure that residents are encouraged to participate

4. What Does Medication Management Look Like?

While memory care communities do not have medical professionals who can prescribe medications, they assist with managing them. Understanding how the community handles medication is essential for the health and safety of your loved one.

• How is medication administered, and who oversees it
• What steps are taken to ensure the correct dosage and timing
• How are families informed about changes in medications

5. How Does the Community Address Health and Wellness?

Although memory care communities do not have on-site doctors, they still focus on maintaining resident health and wellness. Asking about their health services can provide insight into how they handle common health issues in seniors.

• Are there regular health assessments, and who conducts them
• How are changes in a resident’s health status communicated to families
• What wellness programs are available, such as exercise classes or therapy
• Are there partnerships with outside healthcare providers for additional services, if needed

6. What Is the Staff-to-Resident Ratio?

A lower staff-to-resident ratio ensures that your loved one receives more personalized attention. During your care community visit tips, make sure to inquire about the availability of staff members.

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio, particularly during evening and weekend shifts
• How quickly can staff respond to emergencies or needs
• Are there additional staff members available during special activities or outings

7. How Are Meals and Nutrition Managed?

Good nutrition plays a significant role in overall health, especially for those with dementia. Asking about meal planning and nutrition during your tour is essential.

• Are meals tailored to individual dietary needs or restrictions
• How is mealtime structured to encourage participation and socialization
• Are snacks and hydration available throughout the day
• How are residents who need assistance with eating supported during meal times

8. What Are the Costs and Billing Practices?

Understanding the financial aspect of memory care communities is crucial. It’s necessary to know what’s included in the monthly fee and what services might incur additional charges.

• What is included in the monthly cost, and what extra services are billed separately
• How often do fees increase, and by what percentage
• Are there any long-term contracts or move-in fees

9. How Does the Community Communicate With Families?

Strong communication between the community and families is vital in ensuring the well-being of your loved one. Ask how the community keeps families informed and involved.

• How are families updated on their loved one’s progress and well-being
• Is there a designated staff member responsible for family communication
• Are there regular family meetings or opportunities for family involvement

10. What Is the Move-In Process Like?

Transitioning into a memory care community can be challenging for both the resident and their family. Learning about the move-in process will give you an idea of how smoothly this transition can be managed.

• How does the community help new residents adjust to their new environment
• Are there special programs or services to ease the transition
• Can families visit during transition to help their loved one settle in

Additional Care Community Visit Tips

When visiting memory care communities, take note of the environment and the overall atmosphere. Is the community clean, welcoming, and well-maintained? Do staff members seem engaged with residents?

Trust your instincts–if something feels off, it’s worth asking more questions or considering other options. Here are a few more senior living questions to consider:

• What is the turnover rate for staff members
• Are there opportunities for residents to spend time outdoors
• What safety measures are in place for residents who are prone to wandering

Are You Ready to Tour Memory Care Communities?

Touring memory care communities can be an emotional experience, but asking the right questions ensures that your loved one will find a home that meets their needs. Whether you’re focusing on staff training, daily activities, or communication with families, each question helps paint a clearer picture of life in the community.

When you’re ready, consider scheduling a tour of Dorset Place Assisted Living & Memory Care in Oklahoma City, OK. With compassionate care and personalized services, Dorset Place provides residents with a warm, engaging environment.

Schedule your visit today to see firsthand how we can support your loved one’s well-being.