How to Find the Best Memory Care Community for Your Loved One
Making the decision that your parent needs to move to a memory care community can be challenging and very emotional for you. You may not want to admit that your parent needs specialized care, and the thought of them moving from their lifelong home into a community may scare you. Rest assured that a memory care community is a great place for your parent or loved one to reside in and will allow them to get the care they need while they maintain their independence.
Memory care communities are designed to specifically meet the needs of those who suffer from memory related impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. These communities will have specially trained staff who will work with residents that need memory care and provide them with personalized care that will allow them to have a high quality of life.
Realizing your parent or loved one needs to make the transition to a memory care community can be startling at first, but at Rivertown Ridge, we are here to help make the transition as easy as possible.
4 Things to Look for in a Memory Care Community
Finding the right memory care for your parent can be challenging; the process can seem overwhelming and you might not know where to start. When it comes to your parent or loved one, it’s important that you find a memory care community that offers personalized support while giving you peace of mind. Explore four of the key elements you should look for in a memory care community below.
1. Safe and Comfortable Environment.
A great place to start when researching memory care communities for your parent or loved one is the overall environment of the community. The community should make your parent feel like they’re at home and include elements like comfortable seating, plenty of space for social interaction and welcoming décor.
You will also want to pay attention to the different amenities that the community offers. In addition to a welcoming, home-like environment, you will want to see what safety elements and protocols are in place to help ensure your loved one enjoys their ideal lifestyle. For example, at Rivertown Ridge, residents can enjoy a secure courtyard, craft and activity rooms and a sensory room to help residents engage with all five senses.
2. Knowledgeable Staff Members.
It’s imperative to find a memory care community with staff members that specialize in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care. After all, the staff members are the ones providing your loved one with care on a daily basis. It’s natural for you to want to make sure they are trained and knowledgeable about the memory related issues before your loved one becomes a resident.
You will also want to inquire about the memory care community’s overall philosophy and its focus on senior independence. Allowing family members to be involved is also something you should look for. At Rivertown Ridge, our team will work with residents and their family members to create a fully customized care plan that provides support for any unique challenges your loved one might be facing.
3. An Independent Dining Experience.
A memory care community should offer your parent more than just a nutritious dining menu, they should offer an opportunity for your parent to connect with others and create memories over a welcoming dining experience.
You should also review the menus that are offered at the memory care community. After all, you’ll want to make sure your parent is consuming a well-balanced and healthy diet. Another element to look out for is whether the dining options include any privacy. At Rivertown Ridge, we can offer your loved one a private dining room, which is perfect for enjoying delicious meals with friends and family.
4. Activities to Engage Your Parent.
Engaging activities can make all the difference when it comes to the quality of care that a memory care community provides. Activity calendars should include programs that allow your parent to become involved and active in their community. These activities should be offered throughout the day and on weekends and help to empower your parent and increase their feeling of independence.
The activities at our Lighthouse Memory Support at Rivertown Ridge include crafts, recreational programs, community events, library, fitness classes and more.
Lighthouse Memory Support at Rivertown Ridge
At Rivertown Ridge, we know that daily living can grow more difficult as we age and that there is a growing need for quality memory care communities. Your loved one can experience a peace of mind thanks to Lighthouse Memory Support, our memory care program. Our program is designed to help your parent age in place, feel secure and remain active while receiving the care they need.
All of our Lighthouse Memory Support staff members have been specially trained in Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and are prepared to provide your parent the highest level of care. You’ll have peace of mind about your loved one’s care knowing support from our administration and helpful reminders are always available to your family.
Your loved one can stay healthy, engaged and active with our innovative programming, social activities and on-site wellness center. Our community is meant to feel like living at home and provide residents with a calming living atmosphere.
Every resident will receive their own fully customized care plan to ensure they are receiving the exact level of support they require. Our staff will work with you and your family to assess current needs, identify opportunities and plan ahead for the future.
Experience Comfortable Memory Care at Rivertown Ridge Today
Lighthouse Memory Support at Rivertown Ridge provides the care residents need in a unique environment right here in Wyoming, MI. Contact us today at 616-805-3989 to learn more about our memory care program and to sign up for a virtual tour.