Making the decision to place your loved one in a dementia care facility is never easy. With a variety of care facilities to choose from, you may feel overwhelmed and wonder which facility will be a good fit for your loved one. Focusing on a few key points will help you narrow down your choices so you can place your loved one in a facility where they will receive the best care for their unique condition.

Staffing matters

The first thing you will need to determine are the credentials of the facility and staff. Ask if ongoing training is part of the protocol for workers and how much training the staff receives on a yearly basis. You may also want to ask how many of the staff are certified dementia care managers.

One of the most important aspects of a good dementia care facility is the ratio of staff to patients. The best facility in the world will not functional well if the staffing is inadequate. Ask what the staff-to-resident ratio is for both daytime and nighttime hours.

Safety concerns

You will want to know the details about security for the dementia care facility you choose. Do they have emergency alert systems in place? Are outdoor recreational areas enclosed and secured?

Ask to see features that will make it easy for your loved one to navigate throughout the facility on foot or by wheelchair. Some things to look for are color-coded hallways that can make it easier for dementia patients to move about. Ask if your loved one will be accompanied by a staff member when ambulating throughout the facility.

Facility policies and treatments

Ask if care plan meetings are held with the family on a regular basis. You should also know the policy regarding medical emergencies. Ask if residents are grouped according to their cognitive levels and abilities. 

You will also want to inquire about the various treatment programs they offer in the dementia care facility. Some common types of treatments available may include music and pet therapy, which can be helpful and comforting to dementia patients.

When it becomes necessary to place a loved one in a dementia care facility, it is important to research all your options before making a decision. Matching your loved one's unique needs to the right care facility will help them get the best dementia treatment and care to keep them safe. You will have peace of mind knowing your loved one is safe and receiving the best care.