Making the decision to move your loved ones into a memory care community is never an easy one. Usually, the decision comes after many sleepless nights with your family discussing the benefits. You know that you are not going to be able to give your loved one the care that they need, but you also want to find a place that’s going to love and cherish them just as much as you do.
That’s why it’s so important to find a quality memory care community like Astoria’s dementia care in Omaha, NE. When you find a quality memory care community, you know that your loved one is going to be well taken care of the same way family would. You can trust that no matter what, your loved one is truly going to be loved, cared for, and well-fed, which can give you peace of mind knowing that your senior is somewhere safe.
When you’re doing your research, though, how do you know if a memory care community is a quality one? Here are a few ways that you know you’ve found a high quality memory care community:
1. A highly trained, competent staff.
One of the most important aspects of finding a quality memory care community is to ensure that the staff is highly trained and know exactly how to best take care of your loved one. Memory care training is much different than the training needed for a typical senior living community because memory care is so specialized.
The staff needs to understand that seniors who have memory care needs are going to need more assistance due to the unique conditions these emotional and behavioral symptoms create. Not just anyone can walk into a memory care center and immediately know what exactly to do.
That’s why Astoria’s dementia care in Omaha, NE is such a great choice for families and those who are struggling with finding quality memory care. Our staff is specially trained to know what’s best for you and your senior loved one and how exactly to approach each situation that arises. We know how to best assist your loved ones.
2. Continuing to give all residents a fulfilling, happy life.
Moving into a senior living community doesn’t mean that it’s the end of your loved one’s exciting, fulfilling life! Many people have the misconception that moving into a senior care community means that your loved ones can no longer enjoy the exciting things in life. That your loved ones will spend all of their time in their room or apartment, sitting around and watching television. This couldn’t be any further from the truth.
A quality memory care community understands that while your loved ones will need additional support, they’re still your loved ones. They still need excitement and enrichment regardless of any cognitive disabilities they may have, and living in a senior living community doesn’t mean that they can’t have fun! They plan exciting events, encourage family visits, and even sponsor small outings out on the town. While these events don’t have to be extravagant, the fact that these events are planned means a lot to a family struggling through giving the care of their loved one to a new place.
3. A personalized care plan for each individual resident.
No two people are exactly alike, and a quality memory care community knows that intimately. Care plans need to be individualized for each person in order for them to receive the best care possible, especially in the case of residents who require additional memory care.
Staff who understand the intricacies of dealing with memory care residents are immensely important for this. Mrs. Smith may not react to a new activity in the same way that Mr. Doe does, and understanding how to involve both of these residents in the same activity is a skill that only the best caretakers can manage. Individual understanding and close personal relationships with each resident are a hallmark of a quality memory care community.
4. A safe and secure environment.
One of the scariest parts of having a loved one who struggles with memory concerns is the idea of keeping them safe. Seniors who struggle with dementia and Alzheimer’s often become confused and will try to leave, no matter if they’re living at home or at a memory care community. That’s why, when you search for quality memory care for your senior loved one, you find a community that offers top-notch security systems.
When you do your research, ensure that your chosen location offers several different steps in regard to security. Does this community have alarms on the door? Do all of the doors lock? Are all of the exits monitored by a security system or by some kind of security detail?
A massive part of choosing a senior living community is knowing that your loved one is going to be safe in addition to being happy and healthy. Knowing that your chosen community offers a secure environment ensures your loved one’s safety – and your peace of mind.
5. Family involvement and good communication.
Finding a good retirement community also means that you’re going to stay involved in your loved one’s care. When you do your research and interview communities, ensure that the community you choose offers good family communication and is open and honest with families. Too often, families are left in the dark. A quality memory care community will ensure that families are involved – and stay involved.
Quality Dementia Care in Omaha, NE
Here at Astoria, we’re proud to offer quality dementia care in Omaha, NE. We understand that handing over the care of your loved one to someone new is a scary and overwhelming process, and that’s why we want you to feel as comfortable as possible with your decision. Our team is here to ensure that you feel safe, happy, and secure in your choices.
If you’re interested in seeing what kind of incredible care that Astoria provides, we’d love to have you. Contact us today to schedule a tour and see if Astoria is the senior care community that you’ve been looking for!