When a loved one has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease, choosing the right memory care community in the Bee Cave area can be a daunting task. It is not a decision that is easily made. Many factors need to be considered before deciding on the right one. The benefits of a great community can be great and very impactful. Here are 10 things you are needing to consider when choosing one.
Custom Intervention Program
Every senior with dementia is different with their own set of individualized needs, interests and history. It is very important to choose a program that provides a customized approach to memory care for each person. Trained staff must understand that there is no “one size fits all” approach and that there should be a unique plan created to ensure optimal results.
Dementia-friendly Community Design
A community designed around memory care should also be considered and essential when exploring options. Many communities have designed their indoor and outdoor space to fully accommodate seniors in memory care. Some even have neighborhoods that were made exclusively for them. They have been shown to be tremendously beneficial.
24/7 Staff
When choosing a community it is also important that there is trained staff on-site & available 24/7. Full-time support is essential for dementia seniors. There’s no waiting for a scheduled visit or having to make an appointment. If they are needing immediate assistance, someone is always there to help.
Full Dining & Dietary Assistance
A healthy diet is another important piece to the overall wellness plan of a resident with dementia. A community should also have a comprehensive dining program that is tailored to accommodate modified diets. It should be adjustable to each resident’s personalized needs and preferences.
Custom Memory Care Activities
Specialized activities designed specifically for memory care residents is also vital. Cognitive stimulation therapy involves activities to improve concentration, memory and communication. A community should have various forms of it such as art therapy and music therapy.
Safety Features
Residents’ safety should also be a chief concern. Features such as an in-house emergency medical alert system and alarms at every emergency exit should be in place. There should also be enclosed courtyards so that memory care residents can safely wander without putting themselves at risk.
Social Activities
A regular monthly activities calendar created by staff that is full of engaging activities is also an essential piece of a good memory care program. They should be designed to stimulate cognitive functions and provide a chance for residents to socialize and interact with one another. Look for activities such as painting, cooking and gardening exercises.
Apartment Options
The community should also offer various options for housing that are suited to fit the resident and the needs of their loved ones. Consider if you are looking for private or shared space. Many communities provide both options in the form of one private bedroom or a full one bedroom with a private living room space.
Staff-to-Resident Ratio
The number of staff available to each resident should be relatively low so that you can be confident that each person receives an adequate amount of attention and assistance on a daily basis. Personalized care should be the community’s top priority.
Wandering Alert System
A patient wandering alarm system should also be in place so that all residents with dementia are continuously monitored throughout the area. Features such as security locks and status lights are typically included.
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a quality memory care community in the Bee Cave area. We hope that we have provided you with enough information to start the journey of finding one that fits your needs and expectations.
At Arbor Terrace Lakeway, we provide a high-quality memory care community with over 30 years of experience, in addition to having an Evergreen memory care neighborhood. Learn more by contacting us today!
