While assisted living might work in the early stages, memory care residences are often better suited for our loved ones with more advanced cognitive needs. Still…choosing the right residence isn’t easy. It takes a bit of time, research, and knowing which questions to ask. After all, comfort and safety are non-negotiables.
If you think you’re in the middle of this decision, you’re not alone. You’re absolutely right to dig deep before deciding. Because when a loved one is living with dementia, it’s natural to want the absolute best for them.
Below, we’ll walk you through the essential questions to ask when exploring memory care options, and why these questions actually matter.
Questions You’ll Want to Ask (And Why They Matter)
Having a solid list of questions at the ready can help you compare your options side by side and feel confident about your choice. Here are some key areas to focus on:
Care and Staffing
- What’s the staff-to-resident ratio?
Especially during evenings and overnight?
To understand how much one-on-one attention your loved one will receive.
- Are staff specifically trained in dementia or Alzheimer’s care?
Will they understand the specific challenges that come with memory loss.
- Is a registered nurse or healthcare provider available 24/7, on-site or on-call?
- How are residents assessed when they first arrive?
And how often are care plans reviewed?
- What support is provided for daily living tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and using the washroom?
- How is medication managed and monitored?
- What protocols are in place for managing wandering, aggression, or other behavioural changes?
- How will you keep me informed about my loved one’s health and well-being?
Environment and Safety
- What safety measures are in place to ensure resident safety?
- Is the environment designed to be dementia-friendly?
Are there calming lighting, minimal noise, and easy navigation?
- Is there secure access to outdoor spaces for fresh air and sunshine?
- Can personal items be brought in to make the room feel more like home?
- What emergency protocols such as fire safety, medical emergencies, etc. are in place?
Activities and Engagement
- What types of activities are offered particularly for people with memory loss?
- How are activities tailored for different cognitive levels and interests?
- Is there a designated activities coordinator?
Are there regular opportunities for social interaction with other residents?
- Can family visit often?
Is there a welcoming space for visits?
Cost and Financial Clarity
- What’s the monthly fee?
And what services are included?
- Are there additional charges for different levels of care?
Or even…extra services?
- What are the payment policies and accepted methods?
- How is transitioning to a higher level of care handled if needed?
- Is there a refund or transfer policy in case of relocation?
Why These Questions Matter
Asking such thoughtful and rational questions isn’t just about gathering facts.
It’s about making sure your loved one will be truly cared for…in every sense of the word.
These questions help you get an idea o n how seriously the facility takes memory care and whether their team has the expertise and of course, the compassion that you’re looking for.
Furthermore, safety-related questions reveal how much emphasis is placed on protecting residents from harm or disorientation. And by exploring their programming and social opportunities, you can measure whether they’re creating an environment that supports joy and engagement.
Lastly, open, honest answers help build a foundation of trust between you and the facility.
Tips for Touring Memory Care Centres
Your questions are very important but so is what you see, hear, and feel when you visit the memory care centres.
Keep the below tips in mind when you pay a visit:
- Visit at different times of the day to observe staff interaction. Check out the different daily activities of the residents, and the overall atmosphere to get a well-rounded understanding of the centres
- Have a conversation with current residents and family members. Their insights can be valuable
- Take a closer attention to cleanliness, layout, noise levels, and general upkeep
- Take notes during your visit and compare your impressions afterwards
We’re With You In This Journey
Choosing a memory care facility is a big decision. It deserves all the time and thought you can give it. It’s about your loved ones, after all.
By asking detailed, compassionate questions and trusting what you see and feel during visits, you’ll be in a much better position to make the right call for your loved one.
This is about more than care. It’s about creating a life with as much comfort, safety, joy, and dignity as possible.
You’ve got this.
