When the time comes for your loved one to move into Memory Care in Manatee County, FL, it might seem like there are an infinite number of questions to ask. How do you know if this community is right for your loved one? What should you look for during the tour? How will you keep your family member safe? Here are some questions that can help guide your decision:
What Is the Staff-to-Resident Ratio?
It’s important to know the staff-to-resident ratio in a community. This will help you determine how much attention each resident receives daily.
Knowing your loved one’s caregivers and how long they have been working in the community is also helpful. You should ask about their background and training and what programs or additional learning opportunities are available.
Do Residents Have Enough Opportunities for Physical Activity?
You should also ask about the physical activity opportunities for residents. Physical activity is essential for brain health and can help with memory, focus and mood. The more active a person is, the better their quality of life will be – and the more likely they will stay home instead of needing more intensive care. In addition to having a variety of activities on site (such as classes or games), it’s ideal if your loved one has access to off-site activities, such as swimming pools or gyms nearby. It allows them to continue their routine even when they aren’t living in one place full-time anymore.
What Social Activities Are Available and How Often Do They Occur?
Social activities are important for older adults. They can help people feel more connected and less lonely, improving their mental well-being. Social interactions are also known to prevent depression, one of the most common problems among residents of Memory Care communities.
Do You Have Open Visitation Hours?
Visiting hours are important for family members as well as residents. Many Memory Care communities have open visitation hours, including day and evening. This gives you the flexibility to visit your loved one at a time that works best for you and your schedule. Fixed hours can be difficult to follow when you have responsibilities like work or school.
Do You Offer In-Home Care?
Ask about the availability of in-home care services as well. You’ll want to know how often the team members visit and how long each visit lasts. This should give you an idea of whether this would work for your family member’s needs. You should also ask how easy it would be for the team – whether a nurse or social worker – to contact you if they need help while you’re away from home.
How Will You Keep My Family Member Safe?
Safety is a top priority in Memory Care communities. Caregivers must have undergone extensive training to keep residents safe inside and outside the building.
Caregivers should be trained in CPR, first aid and other life-saving measures in emergencies. They receive regular updates on what’s happening with residents’ medical conditions, so they know when they need extra help from other team members or doctors. This includes monitoring medications, food intake, and exercise routine so that everything stays on track without unexpected changes.
Conclusion
We hope these questions have helped you start your search for a Memory Care community. Remember, it’s important not just to find the right place for your loved one but also for you and other family members. We encourage you to ask as many questions as possible during your tour so that you can make an informed decision about what’s best for everyone involved.
