How To Choose An Assisted Living Community For A Loved One With Dementia

You’ve just received the heartbreaking news that your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia. Perhaps you’ve come to the realization that your beloved family member requires additional care beyond the scope of what you can provide at home. As a caregiver, you want your loved one to receive the best care possible to alleviate their suffering and pain. Fortunately, a compassionate and supportive option exists in the form of assisted living in Minnesota.

Assisted living is a unique and special kind of care that offers support to senior adults as they navigate their diagnosis or illness. Surrounded by a strong support system and a wide range of amenities, seniors in assisted living don’t just live – they can thrive.

If you are wondering whether assisted living could be a beneficial option for your loved one, keep reading. In this article, we will go over the eight things you need to consider when choosing an assisted living community. Use this functional guide as you begin your search to find the best assisted living community available that will address the unique needs of your cherished family member.

Access Your Loved One’s Healthcare Needs

Begin by evaluating your loved one’s needs and the level of care they require. Consider their physical, cognitive, and emotional health, as well as any specific challenges caused by their dementia. By doing an initial assessment, you can determine the type and level of care they need.

Research Possible Communities in Your Area

Start researching assisted living communities in your area that specialize in dementia care. Look for factors such as reputation, staff training, safety measures, available amenities, and overall philosophy of care. You may also want to consult with your loved one’s primary care doctor, other healthcare professionals, and support groups to gather recommendations.

Visit and Observe

Once you create a list of the top three assisted living communities, schedule a time to visit them to get a firsthand look at the buildings, services, and overall atmosphere. Pay attention to how the team interacts with the residents, and look for signs that the residents’ needs and preferences are being valued and respected.

Interview the Team and Residents

To better understand the team’s experience and qualifications, compile a list of questions. Ask about any training initiatives and how they handle certain behavioral challenges associated with dementia. The experienced team provides the best memory care in Minnesota to the needy ones. In addition, speak with the residents and their families to gather fresh perspectives and insights.

Evaluate the Safety and Security

Every senior adult with dementia requires a secure and safe environment. Ask the team about the community’s safety protocols, including an emergency response call system and measures they take to prevent wandering, elopement, as well as other medical crises and emergencies. 

Consider the Recreational and Social Programs Offered

Look for communities that offer immersive recreational and social programs designed specifically for individuals with dementia. Many of these activities can help promote cognitive stimulation, social interaction, and emotional well-being. Also, inquire about how often these activities take place and whether they align with your loved one’s interests and abilities.

Read Reviews and Check References

Reading online reviews can be a great way to verify the legitimacy and quality of the assisted living community. Ask for references. Contact the seniors and their families to get their feedback on their experience with the assisted living community.

Trust Your Gut

After going through the checklist, revisit your top choices. Involve your loved one in the decision-making process by discussing the assisted living options with them. Ultimately, choose the assisted living community that feels right and provides the kind of care and support that meets the specialized needs of your loved one. 

Are you looking for a premier assisted living community in Minnesota? Consider Crest View – a group of leading senior housing in Minnesota that provides ample socialization opportunities, well-balanced, healthy meals, and access to a wide range of amenities in a safe and secure environment. At Crest View, senior adults with dementia are given the necessary support and resources to thrive in a nurturing environment. Contact us today to learn more!