Dementia Checklist: Questions To Ask A Memory Care Facility

Choosing the right memory care community for a loved one is a decision that carries significant emotional weight. The compassionate team at Known Memory Care understands how overwhelming this process can be, and we’re here to help.

This guide offers a comprehensive list of essential questions to ask about memory care in Tulsa, OK. These are the inquiries you should have on hand while taking tours of potential communities.

Touring communities? Consider asking these memory care questions!

Environment

A well-designed and maintained environment plays a crucial role in the quality of life for people with dementia, such as Alzheimer’s. Finding a memory care community that prioritizes care, cleanliness, and a positive atmosphere is essential.

The layout and design should be conducive to their needs, with measures to prevent wandering and for handling emergencies effectively.

Here is a list of questions about the environment you should ask:

1. What measures do you have in place to prevent residents from wandering?
2. How do you maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the community?
3. Can you describe the overall atmosphere of your community?
4. How is the layout designed to support memory care residents?
5. What are your emergency response procedures, and how is the staff trained to handle crises?

Care Programs and Services

The heart of a memory care community lies in its programs and services. This category of memory care questions will get you answers about a community’s specific approach, personalized care plans, daily routines, and activities designed for cognitive stimulation.

Here are five significant questions to ask about care programs and services:

1. What specific memory care programs do you offer?
2. How are personalized care plans developed for each resident?
3. Can you give examples of daily routines and activities designed for cognitive stimulation?
4. What assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) do the facilities offer?
5. How does your care program differ from other memory care facilities?

Remember, it’s not just about asking the right questions – you’ll need to find a community that can answer them confidently and comprehensively. Known Memory Care sets a prime example of that with the A Garden Walk memory care program in Tulsa, OK.

Team Members and Staff-to-Resident Ratio

One of the most significant questions to ask a memory care facility is about staff member ratios. Higher ratios often mean a more personalized level of care and attention for each resident, creating an environment that prioritizes their specific needs.

It’s especially important to ensure that team members have received specialized training in dementia care to provide the highest level of support.

These five questions can help you understand the team that will care for your loved one:

1. What is your staff-to-resident ratio during the day and at night?
2. What type of specialized dementia training does the staff receive?
3. How do you ensure that each resident receives personalized care and attention?
4. Are there medical professionals available on-site 24/7?
5. Ask yourself: Do the team members seem happy, alert, and interactive?

Remember, the quality of care in a memory care community is often reflected in its team members. Ensuring your loved one will be in caring, capable hands is crucial, so don’t be shy about talking to them and observing their work.

Social and Recreational Activities

This group of questions to ask about memory care in Tulsa centers on the social and recreational activities of the communities. The activities not only provide enjoyment for residents but also exercise their cognitive abilities, which can slow the progression of dementia.

The activities should be tailored to suit individuals with memory loss, taking into account their current stage of dementia. It’s also vital that the community encourages social interaction and engagement with supervised areas where residents can enjoy the outdoors or have room inside to maintain a sense of independence.

Here are five questions to ask about social and recreational activities:

1. What type of social and recreational activities do you offer specifically for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia?
2. Can I participate in or observe an activity?
3. Are there secure outdoor areas where residents can enjoy nature?
4. Is there enough room indoors for residents to move around independently?
5. How do you adapt activities to cater to residents at different stages of dementia?

Activities are not just about keeping your loved ones occupied: It’s about providing them opportunities to engage, interact, and live a fulfilling life in long-term care.

Communication with Families

Ongoing interactions with family members are critical for memory care communities. Regular updates and open communication channels keep you in the loop regarding your loved one’s well-being and progress.

Here are five example questions to ask about communication with families:

1. What channels of communication do you use to keep families updated about their loved ones?
2. How frequently do you provide updates?
3. Do you hold care conferences, and how often do these take place?
4. How are families involved in decision-making processes related to their loved ones’ care?
5. How do you handle emergencies, and how quickly do you notify families?

Choosing a memory care community is about finding a partner who can work with you to provide the best possible care for your loved one. Consider what a family member said about our memory care community in Tulsa, OK in an online review:

“We had my father-in-law in this facility, and it is great. The Director of this facility was so helpful and nice to us. The nurses were so good with him and were always asking if they could help us in any way. The rooms and the whole facility were so clean and nice. Everyone was so great. [I] Would highly recommend this facility. Thanks again for all you all do.”

Is memory care the correct choice?

Memory care is a specialized service for Alzheimer’s and dementia provided by specifically trained, compassionate team members. Unlike assisted living communities or skilled nursing facilities, which cater to a broader range of needs, memory care focuses on providing a more targeted, supportive environment for residents and family members.

Do you have more memory care questions?

If you have any more questions to ask a memory care facility or need guidance on this journey, don’t hesitate to contact our Known Memory Care community. We’re here to help you navigate this important decision. Reach out to us today to learn how we can walk this path together.