Learn the eight questions to ask when visiting a memory care community.

5-9 minute read.

Choosing a memory care community for a loved one can be a challenging and emotional process. Knowing the right questions to ask can help. 

Read on for the eight questions to ask when you’re visiting memory care facilities. You can use these questions as a guide, and to help you come up with your own questions as you visit and tour memory care communities.

1. What are the staff’s training and qualifications?

Caring for people with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments requires special skills. Ask about how staff are trained to work with people who are experiencing memory loss as well as changes in mood and behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Ongoing training is important; at Sunnyside Manor we regularly update our trainings for staff using proven methods and the latest research, including trainings from the Alzheimer’s Association, and immersive, virtual reality simulators that allow our staff to better understand the experiences of people with Alzheimer’s.

2. How do you create and manage care plans?

Each resident in a memory care neighborhood will have unique needs depending on their stage of memory loss and their individual history and preferences. When asking about individualized plans for care, be sure to ask how family members are involved in the process and how often plans are updated.

Each resident should have a personalized plan in place that adapts as their care needs change. Individualized care means a more comfortable and supportive experience for your loved one.

3. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

People with significant memory loss require more reminders and cueing, so the staff-to-resident ratio should be lower than a regular assisted living neighborhood.

The memory care neighborhood should have enough caregivers in place to provide assistance and support at all times, especially during evening and overnight hours, as many people with Alzheimer’s and memory impairments experience disrupted sleep schedules.

4. How do you keep people safe?

People with Alzheimer’s and memory loss may be prone to wandering or confusion, so safety and security are of utmost importance. You might specifically ask:

• What measures are in place to prevent memory care residents from leaving the community unsupervised?
• Are there secure spaces to enjoy the outdoors, and safe outdoor activities on the schedule?
• How do you handle medical emergencies in memory care? Are medical staff available at all times?

Sunnyside Manor has nurses on-site 24/7.

5. What types of activities and entertainment are available?

For people with memory loss, enriching and engaging activities are key to maintaining cognitive health and overall quality of life.

Ask each community you visit for their memory care calendar. Look for a range of programs that are inviting and support mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Activities in a memory care neighborhood will look a bit different from assisted living programs and activities, as they are specially tailored to accommodate the needs of people with memory loss. You may notice more sensory activities, simplified physical activities and games, and a consistent routine even on weekends and holidays.

6. When can I visit, and how can I stay involved in my loved one’s life in the community?

A community that encourages visitation and family involvement will create a more supportive environment for your loved one and for you.

At Sunnyside Manor, we believe that your loved one’s neighborhood is your neighborhood, too. Families are welcome to visit at any time, and encouraged to join their loved ones for activities and events.

7. How do you keep families informed about their loved ones’ care?

Regular communication is essential for staying informed and involved in your loved one’s care. You may find it helpful to ask:

• Who will be my regular point of contact after my loved one moves in?
• Who do I contact if I have questions about care, visiting, or community events?

8. How do you help make the transition to memory care easier?

A move to memory care can be a challenging transition for residents and their families. An established and reliable community will have processes in place to help make the move and transition as smooth as possible.

Quick reads: What to expect when someone moves to memory care.

You might ask specifically:

• How do staff help residents adjust to their new neighborhood?
• What advice and recommendations do you have to make the transition easier for family members?

Choosing memory care can be challenging, but knowing the right questions to ask can help you get the information you need to make the best possible decision. As you visit memory care communities, take time to ask detailed questions, talk to friends and neighbors about their experiences, and trust your own sense of where you and your loved one will feel most secure.

Learn More About Why Families Rely On Sunnyside Manor

When you have questions about senior living, we are here to help. Sunnyside Manor offers assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Learn more about Sunnyside Manor’s resources for caregivers. Whether you’re looking for short-term support or a longer-term plan, begin with our “Getting Started” guide. Please call us at 888-696-2052 to speak with a senior living expert.

Sunnyside Manor, located in Wall NJ, is the area’s premier family-owned senior living community. The community features three distinctive neighborhoods: Independence ‘Plus’ Assisted Living, Recollections Memory Care, and Long Term Care & Sub-acute Rehabilitation. Respite stays and palliative care are available in all neighborhoods.