If your parent or loved one is living with dementia, a memory care community can make navigating their day-to-day life easier and give them more joy. But how can you find the right memory care community in Athens, Georgia? We’ve put together a few tips for you to help make your search easier.
List Personal Needs and Preferences
Start with a list of your loved one’s needs and preferences for their ideal living situation. Do they enjoy lots of outdoor space? Do they prefer a spacious, bright living area, or do they feel safer in a warm and cozy environment? Maybe they’re anxious or their minds start to wander when they are unoccupied for too long, so having appropriate activities accessible might be helpful. Take note of the things they want and need and make a list in order of priorities.
Gather Recommendations and Reviews
If you have family or friends living in Athens, GA, ask them if they can recommend senior living communities with special attention to memory care. Also consider word-of-mouth reputation if you visit senior living neighborhoods directly. Lastly, go online and read reviews of senior living communities. Look through both high and low ratings to get a full picture, and keep in mind which features matter most to you and your loved one.
Look for Dedicated Memory Care Programs and Specially Trained Staff
People living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia need special support and more tailored care than those living without it. That’s why it’s critical that the senior living community you choose includes an exceptional memory care or dementia program. In dedicated memory care programs, staff are specially trained on best practices for dementia care, as well as how to respond appropriately to different scenarios.
As you read about and speak with senior living communities, inquire about the different levels of care they offer. Some memory care communities even offer tailored social events and enrichment activities. These activities, designed specifically for people with dementia, will help keep them engaged both mentally and physically.
Check Out the Community’s Amenities
Different senior living communities may offer varying levels of amenities. Finding one that has the comfort your loved one desires, can greatly benefit their happiness and well-being. Look for things such as all-inclusive housekeeping, on-site fitness centers, group exercise classes, plenty of outdoor areas, customized meal plan and dining options, transportation to offsite activities or doctor’s appointments, and social offerings.
5. Schedule a Tour
Finally, once you’ve narrowed down your top choices for memory care communities in Athens, GA, contact the communities directly. Schedule an on-site tour to visit the community first hand, and to meet the staff in person. Bring a list of questions or concerns with you, and don’t be afraid to ask the staff everything you want to know. It’s important you feel confident in your choice of memory care community for your loved one.
Looking for more guidance in finding the right memory care community in Athens, GA? Download our Dementia Care Checklist to help check off important features as you compare different communities.