Finding trusted care for your loved one can take time and attention to detail. Every memory care community has its unique traits - from specialized staff training to unique memory care programs. When exploring a memory care community in Fort Worth, TX, there are a few key elements to keep an eye out for. Next, this guide will help you know what questions to ask potential communities to thoroughly evaluate memory care options on behalf of you or your loved one.
What is a memory care community?
A memory care community provides care for those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. It can be a stand alone community, or a neighborhood within a senior living community that provides deeper levels of memory-tailored care. You or your loved one may opt for a memory care community when it becomes unsafe or too lonely at home or a more comprehensive care plan is needed.
Memory care communities offer special features that will greatly enhance your loved one’s quality of life, especially trained staff, programs designed to boost cognitive function and a secured environment. This makes memory care communities a safe place for residents to live and thrive.
Evaluating Memory Care Communities
While memory care communities in Fort Worth, TX, may have some similarities, it’s important to ensure that the community will be a good fit for your loved one. Below are a few things to consider when exploring your memory care options.
1. Is the location convenient for loved ones?
For some families, location is everything so you can stay close to loved ones, even when residing in a memory care community. Keep in mind that location makes it easier for family members and friends to visit, or allows you to stay active in groups in their greater community - such as a religious group.
2. Is the community physically appealing?
There are various aspects of the physical building, including rooms with calming colors, wide hallways and extensive, maintained gardens to consider. For some, design elements may make the community feel more like home.
3.Do the activities and programs align with your loved ones’ interests?
Many memory care communities in Fort Worth offer robust engagement calendars to provide residents with stimulation and opportunities to stay active in the community. Consider if the activity calendar has activities that would appeal to your loved ones’ interests in order to help keep them involved.
Talk with the caregivers and activity coordinators about how they encourage residents to participate in programs and stay social if they are apprehensive. Some residents may not be inclined to participate in group activities, so understanding opportunities for one on one engagement is important.
4. What is the staff to resident ratio?
Talk with the caregiving team about the staff to resident ratio at different parts of the day. Understanding each team member’s comprehensive and compassionate approach to care will help you to understand the support available throughout the day. A high staff to resident ratio may indicate more support and help available for your loved one.
5. What training does the staff receive?
The team at a top Fort Worth memory care community should have advanced training in memory care. They should understand all forms and stages of dementia and have strategies for mitigating sometimes challenging symptoms. Understanding what training is provided to staff will help you know if the team is prepared to support your loved one, even in difficult times.
While talking with the care team, inquire about the retention of the care team. A team who is committed to the community will be more likely to build a deep, long term relationship with you and your loved one.
6. How are changes in care needs handled?
Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are progressive. The needs and requirements of those with the memory conditionwill change over time, which means their care plans should be constantly evaluated and stay flexible. It’s important to understand what level of care the memory care community in Fort Worth, TX will be able to provide without additional services.
7. Is family involved in care planning?
It’s important to understand ahead of time how involved you or loved ones will be in planning for care. An excellent community will have a balance of being proactive about their resident’s care while also including family members in regular updates and check-ins. A family shouldn’t feel like they need to be present at the community at all times, but have the peace of mind that their loved one is being well cared for as if they were.
From understanding the care planning process, to getting to know staff at the community, there are many elements of top Fort Worth, TX memory care communities worth evaluating. With a thorough evaluation that includes asking thoughtful questions outlined above, you can feel confident in your decision for your loved one’s care needs.
As you begin to explore memory care options, download our Memory Care Checklist to ensure your loved one’s care checks all the boxes.
