Finding the right memory care facility for a loved one can be an emotionally challenging process. It is natural to feel a mix of concern, hope, and uncertainty as you consider your options.
By asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision that ensures your family member receives compassionate, specialized care in a supportive environment. We have crafted seven questions that will help you identify key considerations to give you confidence and peace of mind as you take this important step.
Why it Matters: Risks and Concerns
Choosing a nursing home facility is a big step and naturally stirs up a host of emotions. When your loved one requires placement in a memory care unit, these concerns are elevated and often include the following:
- Neglect or mistreatment may not be communicated to you by your loved one because they may not remember or may be too afraid to speak out.
- Emotional neglect, such as a lack of meaningful interaction, can be especially damaging for memory care patients.
- Undertrained staff or poor communication about the specific needs of a patient can reduce the quality of care and put patients at risk.
With such specialized needs and unique risks, you must find a provider that will care for your loved one in the way you’re comfortable with.
7 Questions to Ask a Potential Memory Care Facility for Your Loved One
The following basic questions will help you get to know a facility and understand its approach to caring for patients, allowing you to make a more informed decision about where to place your loved one.
1. What level of care do you offer?
Ask for specific examples of what they do to achieve this level of care. Make sure they will attend to all of your family members’ basic needs, along with any specialized care they require.
2. How do you train your staff to care for patients?
Learning about the facility’s training process can help put you at ease and ensure staff will know how to properly care for your loved one.
3. What patient activities are normally offered?
Therapeutic activities, cognitive engagement, and social interaction are especially important for memory care patients, who need this interaction in order to stay healthy and happy.
4. How is family involvement encouraged and facilitated?
Family members should still be able to play a part in your loved ones’ care. Talk with the facility about visiting hours, communication standards, how you can participate in activities, and other ways you can stay involved and informed.
5. What kind of emotional support does the facility provide for patients?
Emotional care is just as important as physical care, especially for the elderly and those in memory care units. Ask about what the staff does to provide for patients’ emotional health, and make sure they are well-trained on bedside manner and other standards for interaction.
6. Are there shared spaces/areas where socialization is encouraged?
Social interaction is critical for elderly patients and those who suffer from dementia or other similar conditions. Your loved one should have plenty of opportunities to be around others and be encouraged to interact with family members, staff, and other patients.
7. How much do your services cost?
Is there a fixed monthly fee? Is there additional care that may require a higher payment? Clarify any questions you have about cost early so you won’t be surprised down the road.
In the end, you and your family have to determine what your loved one needs most and what kind of facility will best care for them.
Take some time to make a list of your family member’s specific needs and your concerns about placing them in a memory care unit. Ask questions that will help you resolve these concerns and feel confident in entrusting the care of your loved one to others.
Prioritize Your Loved One’s Care with PMP
No matter what care facility you choose, it’s always hard to turn the care of your family member over to someone else. In the heartbreaking and unacceptable event that your loved one is not well cared for in their new home, PMP is here to help.
Your loved one’s safety and dignity are our top priority, and you can count on us to provide you with the legal support you need as you navigate these difficult situations. Read our other blogs to learn more about nursing home abuse, or send us a message to schedule your free consultation. Let’s work together to make sure your loved one is protected.