How to Choose the Best Memory Care Home for Your Loved One

Updated on January 12, 2023

A group of women exercising

Description automatically generated with low confidenceCredit: wavebreakmedia_micro Via Freepik

Many seniors over the age of 65 are living with dementia, and they require specialized care to stay safe and healthy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 16 million Americans provide more than 17 billion hours of unpaid care for family and friends with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias each year.

Caregiving can be challenging for many, and not everyone has the time or resources to provide the specialized care that seniors with dementia need. This is where memory care homes can play a crucial role in keeping your loved one safe and healthy. To make sure your parent, grandparent, or partner is receiving the best care available, consider the following tips to choose a memory care home that offers you peace of mind and the utmost care for your loved one.

Level of Care

When choosing the ideal home for your loved one, consider the services offered by the residence. The primary purpose of moving into a memory care home is to receive specialized care. Reputable care homes like Sagecare prioritize the well-being of their residents and offer specialized care based on a senior’s needs. The private nursing home allows seniors, typically over 65, to age in place and receive the care they need to thrive in their daily lives.

Memory care homes must be equipped with the necessary tools, resources, and staff members to provide seniors with constant care. This is why Sagecare has a high staffing-to-resident ratio, allowing registered nurses to provide personalised care to its residents.

Safety Protocols

One of the most common symptoms of dementia is wandering, due to which many seniors tend to walk around by themselves, increasing the risk of falls, injuries, and other problems. So, a memory care home needs to offer a high level of security and implement multiple safety protocols.

Some safety protocols to look out for when choosing a memory care home are doors leading outdoors that cannot be easily unlocked, alarm systems, and a safe space with a lower risk of injuries.

Activities & Programs

In addition to providing a safe and comfortable living environment, specialized memory care homes should also offer memory-engaging activities and opportunities for socialization. The dementia mind needs to stay active as these builds reserves of healthy brain cells and connections between them.

Staying busy and keeping the mind engaged through physical and mental activities, such as exercising, gardening, puzzles, and other activities, can stimulate cognitive function in seniors with dementia. According to medical research, when people keep their minds active, their thinking skills are less likely to decline. Memory-engaging activities can slow down memory loss among seniors and allow them to live a more fulfilling life while staying active and maintaining a social life.

Nutritious Meals

Proper nutrition is crucial for seniors with dementia, as it can help with cognitive function and overall health. A reputable nursing home that cares about its residents will offer nutritious meals to boost mental and physical health while considering dietary preferences or restrictions. Although the menu can vary depending on the memory care home, location, and fees, a nutritious meal is most likely to consist of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, and lean protein foods. When comparing private nursing homes for your loved one, learn about their food options.

Moving your loved one to a memory care home can be challenging, but specialized care is necessary for many seniors. When you choose a reputable home with qualified staff, safety facilities, engaging activities, and a nutritious food menu, you can count on the memory care home to provide your loved one with the care they need.

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.