Selecting the most supportive memory care program and community for your loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is a decision that’s personal—and not one to be rushed. If you’re just beginning your search or narrowing down the choices, these are the things you need to know and the questions to ask.
Top Things to Consider When Evaluating a Memory Care Program
Licensing and Accreditation
The best memory care programs comply with all relevant state licensing regulations and are in good standing with the associated health departments or governing agencies. An accredited program that is affiliated with quality organizations points to its commitment to top-notch care measures.
Questions to ask:
- Is your program state-licensed?
- Has the program reported any recent violations or complaints?
Staff Training and Staff-to-Resident Ratios
The best memory care programs hire employees who are familiar with the specific needs presented as cognition changes, particularly in terms of handling communication challenges and providing treatment, and support with utmost care and respect.
Staff-to-resident ratios are also important to consider as residents with memory loss require more individualized attention and a higher level of care than other residents in senior living communities.
Questions to ask:
- What type of dementia training do your employees receive?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio, especially at night and on weekends?
Safety and Environment
A secure, well-designed facility is indispensable when it comes to memory care. During your search, consider features that convey a home-like feel while reducing the risk of confusion and elopement. Features like quiet spaces, familiar cues, and supervised outdoor areas are especially conducive to such an environment.
Questions to ask:
- How is the community designed to prevent wandering?
- Are residents permitted to safely enjoy time outside of their room? In the outdoors?
The best memory care community allows residents to be independent and still safe and familiar with their surroundings.
Individualized Care Plans
Two people with dementia will likely have different experiences and needs. Prioritize the programs that provide individualized care plans tailored not only to medical needs, but also to each person’s preferences, strengths, and interests. These care plans are not constant but should be revised over time and include the input of family members.
What to ask:
- How is the resident’s care plan developed and updated?
- How is feedback from families integrated into the process?
Learn more about the services memory care programs provide.
Programming and Social Engagement
Meaningful programs are the cornerstone of the best memory care neighborhoods. Intellectual and physically stimulating programs such as music, art classes, and gentle exercise are not only mood-lifting but may also slow overall decline and allow residents to maintain independence as long as possible.
What to ask:
- May I review a sample activity calendar?
- Are activities created for each resident’s unique abilities and interests?
Medical and Emergency Assistance
Residents with dementia can have complex medical needs. If that is the case for your loved one, seek out a memory care program that has on-call nurses, clearly defined emergency response protocols, and drug regimen management.
What to ask:
- Do you have licensed on-site 24/7 nurses?
- What procedure is followed in case of a medical crisis?
Family Engagement and Communication
Good communication between families and care teams is essential in creating trust and facilitating high-quality, consistent care. Look for communities that encourage open communication and invite visits, involvement in care planning, and access to support groups.
What to ask:
- How often are families updated on a resident’s health?
- Are support groups or educational materials offered to families?
Learn more about how memory care communities support both families and their loved ones.
Trusting Your Instincts—and Including Your Loved One
Facts and checklists are critical, but so is your gut. As you tour a community, keep an eye on the atmosphere. Consider: Do residents seem engaged? Do caregivers appear patient and attentive, and no less importantly, are spaces clean, calm, and inviting?
When possible, involve your loved one in the decision. After all, their comfort, preferences are what matter the most, and so how they react during visits can provide you with a cue. Since it’s their life, they deserve a say in the choice to make the transition smoother and more fulfilling.
Discover the Best Memory Care Near You
Choosing the right memory care for your loved one is about more than just checking boxes—it’s about ensuring they’re safe, well cared for, and treated with compassion and respect. With the right information and support, you can make a confident, empathetic decision.
At Five Star Senior Living, our memory care communities are thoughtfully designed to prioritize safety and comfort. Each location is staffed by professionals specially trained to support individuals with memory loss and cognitive decline. Our Memory Care program honors personal identity and dignity through Life Enrichment activities that promote independence, connection, and joy.
Whether you’re still weighing the pros and cons of home care vs memory care, exploring your options, or ready to schedule a visit, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Five Star Senior Living memory care community near you to take a tour, meet our team, learn about our programs, and experience the Five Star difference firsthand.