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What to Look For in a Memory Care Community in Parma

March 19, 2020

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Have you ever been put to sleep for a medical or dental procedure? Out of nowhere you wake up hours later, the surgery or procedure is over, and you have no memory of it. As the drug wears off, you’re in a haze where everything seems out of focus.

That’s only a small part of what your loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is going through. But unfortunately, that’s only the beginning. Imagine that same scenario, but this time you wake up in a completely unfamiliar place with no idea why you are there.

You can’t imagine what it feels like to go through that. And that’s part of the reason why finding the right memory care community in Parma, OH is so important. While the process of finding a memory care community can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. In this post, we’re going to highlight what you should look for in a memory care community.

What to Look for in a Memory Care Facility

1. Start with the Environment

One of the first things you should consider when looking for a memory care community is the environment. Many communities have an environment that starts and stops with the word homelike.

A good place to start is by looking at how much space there is for social interaction. We all want a cozy feeling for our loved one, but make sure to learn about the safety features as well. Amenities like secure doors and a call light system can make a world of difference for you loved one.

You’ll also want a memory care community doesn’t have a clinical feel. For example, Mount Alverna Village in Parma has a secure and supervised landscape courtyard for residents to explore.

2. The Dining Experience

There’s no question that senior nutrition is important. But for memory care communities, the experience is just as important as the food. You want to look for a memory community that understands that meals are an opportunity for residents to connect with their past.

How are you supposed to spot engaging dining options at a memory care community? Take a look at the menu during the tour. If the menu offers variety throughout the week, it’s a good sign. It might not seem like it, but more options equal more independence for residents.

For example, having finger foods available, gives residents who have trouble using silverware more flexibility.

3. Learn About the Staff

A warm and welcoming environment is great, but the staff of a memory care community is more important. After all, they are going to be the ones who spend the most time with your loved one. If you’re touring a memory care community in Parma, OH, be sure to ask what type of training their staff receives.

If you’re thinking about what to look for in a memory care facility, personalized care should be at the top of the list. When you’re talking to memory care communities, try to get a better idea about their philosophy. Memory care programs should emphasize social connections and encourage independence whenever possible.

Family involvement is also important. That’s why at Mount Alverna Village, our staff works to get you and your family more involved. Whether it’s a private dining room for a birthday or specialized staff to help you communicate with your loved one.

4. Engaging Activities and Events

There’s a stigma when it comes to memory care communities. It’s easy to think that residents stay inside their apartments and have limited interaction. But engaging activities are a cornerstone of many memory care communities in Parma. If you’re looking at a particular memory care community, you’ll want to ask about their activity calendar.

By looking at the activity calendar, you’ll get a good sense of how the community encourages residents to be more active. With memory care, you’ll also want to make sure the staff help residents find activities that are meaningful to them.

Ancora Memory Support Community at Mount Alverna Village

Mount Alverna Village has a brand-new memory care community in Parma, OH. Ancora Memory Support can provide your loved one and family with hope, safety, stability and peace of mind. Our open floor plan gives residents plenty of opportunities to explore and socialize.

Everything from our well-balanced meals to our calendar of engaging activities is designed to give your loved one more opportunity to thrive. We know how challenging it can be for senior caregivers. But your family doesn’t have to go through it alone. The specialized team of memory care professionals at Mount Alverna Village can help.

Contact Mount Alverna Village Today

If you’re looking for a memory care community in Parma, OH, put Mount Alverna Village on your list. We can help your loved one find rediscover a sense of purpose.

Learn more about our memory care community or see it for yourself by scheduling a tour by contacting us today. You can also call 440-843-7800 for more information. We’re happy to hear your loved one’s story and answer any questions.