Memory loss can be a debilitating condition especially if your elderly parent is used to living a fairly independent life. With memory loss conditions such as dementia, it becomes difficult to handle basic financial transactions, errands such as shopping, and much more. Fortunately, there are memory care programs that help your loved one enjoy a better quality of life and some of these programs can even reverse some of the effects of memory loss.
When you are in the process of finding a suitable memory care program for your loved one, here are some of the questions that you should ask.
What Are Your Loved One’s Needs?
Your starting point as you seek to find a suitable memory care program for a loved one is what exactly does your loved one need. This is because the needs of memory loss patients vary from individual to individual. For example, some people, especially on the onset of memory loss conditions, may be able to function fairly independently and thus just need help in a few areas of their lives. In some individuals, there is a significant degree of dependency that means that they will need all-around care. Most individuals tend to fall somewhere between these two points. Your loved one may also need additional care in case they are suffering from other health conditions that also need to be managed such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
When you understand what your loved one needs, it becomes easier to match those needs to the amenities that are typically offered by retirement communities.
What Is Available?
The second step is to match the needs of your loved one with the available amenities. Instead of just relying on brochures and websites, ensure that you personally visit all the memory care communities that you shortlist. try and get a sense of how comfortable your loved one would be living in each of the retirement communities. You should also read any reviews, especially those from residents of such communities.
Is It Affordable?
The other question that you should ask centers around affordability. rates vary from retirement community to retirement community. Understanding how long your loved one will need to be in the memory care program helps to determine the question of budget. You should also look for communities that have special features such as Rent Lock which helps to keep your monthly cost constant and thus makes planning and budgeting a lot easier.
How Effective Is the Program?
At the end of the day, a memory care program is judged by how effective it is. For example, does the retirement community use proven approaches, and have they succeeded in changing the lives of their patients? Talking to friends and relatives can help you get a sense of how effective a particular program is. You can also check for reviews as well as research on the internet.
How Resident-friendly is the Community?
Even though a retirement community may have a stylish exterior, it is the services that are offered that really make the difference. For example, are the floors, apartment, and compound generally safe for your loved one, especially if they are prone to falls? How about support services such as concierge services and so on? These can make the difference when it comes to the safety and comfort of your loved one.
