Common Safety Design Features at a Glenview, IL Memory Care Community

Nestled in the heart of the midwest in Glenview, IL, award-winning memory care communities are changing how we navigate the challenges of memory conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Beyond offering a nurturing and tailored environment, these specialized communities prioritize safety through countless features designed with purpose.

Next, we’ll explore some of these common safety design attributes implemented by memory care communities in Glenview to ensure residents experience maximum comfort, security, and an overall improved quality of life. 

Secured Entries and Exits

Why it Matters: Memory care communities prioritize secured entries and exits to prevent residents from wandering towards danger or outside when temperatures drop below freezing, a common concern for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia in Glenview, IL. This will ensure maximum safety for your loved ones and peace of mind for you.

Implementation: Top communities typically feature access-controlled entry points with keypad or key card systems. Fences and gates are also strategically placed to provide ample access to outdoor spaces while maintaining a secure environment.

Easily Navigable Layout

Why it Matters: Individuals with memory conditions benefit greatly from a simple and easily navigable apartment and community layout, reducing confusion of where they need to go and enhancing their sense of independence.

Implementation: Memory care communities in Glenview, IL, are designed thoughtfully with clear signage, color-coded pathways and circular layouts to prevent dead ends, making it easier for residents to find their way around.

Emergency Response Systems

Why it Matters: Quick response to emergencies is crucial when it comes to memory care. This is why many opt to move into a well-established assisted living community instead of staying at home, where emergencies are harder to respond to quickly. Knowing there are cutting-edge alert systems within a community will help you feel confident in the safety and overall well-being of loved ones.

Implementation: Personal emergency call systems are strategically placed throughout a community, allowing residents to summon help promptly when it’s needed most. Additionally, caregivers and medical professionals are trained thoroughly in emergency response protocols.

Sensory and Wayfinding Features

Why it Matters: Memory care communities typically incorporate innovative sensory features to engage residents and help them recognize different areas of the neighborhood both indoors and out, so they never feel lost or confused.

Implementation: Visual cues, such as contrasting colors on walls and floors, personalized memory boxes located outside a resident’s room, and sensory gardens create a comforting and stimulating environment that aids in recognition.

Specialized Lighting

Why it Matters: Proper lighting is crucial for safety, especially if a severe weather event in Glenview, IL,  such as a snowstorm or thunderstorm, threatens the region. Being equipped with ample lighting features that are also available when the power is out will provide peace of mind. This will also help regulate residents' circadian rhythms, improving sleep patterns.

Implementation: Memory care communities use open concepts in floor plans that let in natural light whenever possible and incorporate well-designed, and never harsh, artificial lighting to reduce shadows and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Proximity of Amenities

Why it Matters: Locating essential amenities close to living areas within Glenview, IL, memory care communities reduces the need for you to walk or travel long distances to a planned activity and will minimize any confusion.

Implementation: Experienced caregivers and memory care community designers strategically place dining areas, activity rooms and communal spaces within easy reach of resident rooms, promoting accessibility and minimizing disorientation.

Established memory care communities in Glenview, IL, such as Arbor Terrace Glenview, go to great lengths to foster safe havens for individuals facing the challenges of a memory condition. By incorporating the common safety design features outlined above, caregivers ensure that residents not only receive the specialized care they need, but also enjoy a living environment that prioritizes their safety, comfort and overall wellness. Choosing a memory care community with these values top of mind will provide you and your family with confidence that you have found the perfect place to call home.

For more on the topic of safety in memory care, don’t miss downloading our free guide, Finding a Safe and Comfortable Senior Living Community, where we cover the necessities and specifics to look for as you begin your community research. As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our dedicated team members by calling (224) 616-2422 with any questions.