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8 Step Planning Guide: Deciding Memory Care is the Best Option

MC Planning Guide

January 22nd, 2025 by Rachel Dimitroff

Planning Guide to Memory Care

There is a lot of planning that goes into making the decision of choosing memory care for yourself or for a loved one. This guide can help to spark your thinking on important factors to consider.
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8 Step Planning Guide: Deciding Memory Care is the Best Option

There is a lot of planning that goes into making the decision of choosing memory care for yourself or for a loved one. This guide can help to spark your thinking on important factors to consider.

#1 RESEARCH MEMORY CARE FACILITIES IN YOUR AREA

When the time comes for you or your loved one to decide on memory care, where you choose to spend it is important. After deciding an easy first step to research is typing in memory care facilities in you or your loved one’s area. Click around and spend some time on the websites that appear. When researching in the designated area, look at pricing as well. Some facilities offer a monthly fee or “all-inclusive” which covers everything, while others offer prices based on the level of care you or your loved one need. Pricing can have a large impact where people choose, but other factors like amenities, services, location and reviews play a role as well. Some facilities offer solely memory care, and others offer multiple care services like independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

#2 TAKE A TOUR

As you narrow down facilities, book appointments to visit them. It’s important to see the facilities in person rather than on their website. Observe your visit closely. Pay attention to whether the staff are friendly and helpful, if the residents look happy, and if it feels comfortable. On this tour, it’s important to be able to ask questions and come prepared. Deciding to go into memory care is not a decision to rush, which is why should put in the time to research the best fit. The “fun stuff” on a tour is important, do the amenities match what they advertise on their website, if they are up to standard as well as checking to see if their nurses are Certified Dementia Care Managers. It can be difficult to see which will be the “perfect” fit for you or your loved one, an in-person tour is a step in the right direction. On the tour, make sure to ask staff members how they plan to care for residents with dementia, and ask about individualized care plans.

#3 TALK TO YOUR FAMILY

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s important to talk with family as soon as possible to create a game plan. Discuss financials, legalities, and create a long-term care plan shortly after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Talk to the people you love or talk to your loved one. When making a significant transition such as this, leaning on others for advice and to talk about plans will be beneficial. The transition to memory care can affect everyone differently, you or your loved one may be having second thoughts or anger towards this decision. It’s possible you could be alone on this journey. It can be scary to go through a big life change with no family or support, if that is the case there are many online therapy websites for elders, this is to be able to speak your feelings and talk to someone out loud about coming to terms with your diagnosis. Check out elderly counseling.

#4 DISCUSS A CARE PLAN IN ADVANCE

It’s important to develop a care plan which is individually based on you or your loved one’s specific needs. This disease will eventually take away you or a loved one’s ability to make cognizant decisions when it comes to health. Lay out from the beginning what the necessary steps are to take as this disease continues to progress. Creating a will in advance will allow your loved one’s assets and belongings to be distributed how you specified before the turn of the diagnosis. Choosing a power of attorney, AKA “proxy”, should be someone close and able to make proper medical decisions. These conversations can be difficult but having someone make personal medical decisions for someone else is not ideal. Planning will save you or your loved one trouble and possible resentment. Check out more about financial planning when deciding to go into memory care.

#5 MAKE SURE HOUSEKEEPING ITEMS ARE TAKEN CARE OF

If a loved one moves into memory care, here are three main things to remember:

  • Make sure to change the mailing address to you or your loved one’s new address.
  • Cancel any cable and Wi-Fi subscriptions.
  • Update addresses on cards and accounts.

Hopefully, there is someone to help you or your loved one dive deep into what is the best plan for moving into memory care. Being prepared will make the transition much smoother and more efficient. It’s important to discuss this when it’s still early in the diagnosis so you or your loved one can still have input.

#6 CREATE A COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT

When setting up for you or a loved one’s room, it’s important to create a sense of familiarity. Bring a favorite chair, favorite blanket, or pictures of family and friends to provide comfort. Being in a new space, anything familiar can make a difference. Arranging the furniture in a similar setup to the previous living room can help, as living in a new space can feel overwhelming. As the Alzheimer’s or dementia progresses, being around familiar objects and photos of family will help to stimulate the brain even if there is no recollection.

#7 PARTICIPATE IN ACTIVITIES

With a 24/7 activities calendar to take part in, there is always something to do. With Alzheimer’s or dementia, staying active and social can help increase cognitive function and boost overall mood. Activities are offered at all times of the day to give each type of resident the chance to participate. Activities are not mandatory, however, strongly encouraged. Participating in these activities will help your loved one see how important it is to engage with others and how enjoyable it can be. When someone has Alzheimer’s or dementia, it’s important to stay distracted and enjoy the small moments in life. Not everything has to be to you or your loved one’s taste, but there is a good mix of different types of activities for different interests.

#8 Establish a Support System

Having people who will be there for you or your loved one will be crucial through the battle of this disease. Having family and friends that will check in, reach out, and remind you or your loved one of old memories will help lessen the burden of reality. Early in the diagnosis, establish important people who will make the effort to be there for you or your loved one. Discuss how it can become difficult to watch this disease take over and how communication will decrease. Having a support system will help not only you or a loved one but family and friends.

We’ve discussed 8 important steps to plan for after making the decision to go into memory care. Although there are many steps that correlate with making the transition, these are some main points to really consider. Make sure to do enough research and see these facilities in person. Reach out to a support system for assistance and have them help in the aid of housekeeping items that need to be taken care of. Understanding the significance of planning when facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia will drastically help the process. Memory care is necessary for anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, it helps with the progression of the disease and creates a positive environment for you or your loved one to have the opportunity to thrive in.

Book a tour here to see if we’re the right fit.

How to Discover the Joys of Assisted Living

August 14th, 2023 by Rachel Dimitroff

How to Discover the Joys of Assisted Living

Assisted living facilities offer a vibrant community with awaiting opportunities and support.

Dear Residents,  

If you have recently joined an assisted living community in the Leesburg area, welcome! Assisted living facilities offer a vibrant community with awaiting opportunities and support. With a multitude of benefits available to the potential friendships you can make, and the activities offered, you will find the fulfillment you’ve been searching for. In this blog post, we will focus on the benefits of assisted living and making the most of this chapter. Creating new memories and exploring your options will create opportunities to thrive, let’s dive in. 

Participate in Enriching Activities and Programs

The activities offered encourage friendship between residents, and overall fun. The importance of participating in activities can be overlooked, taking part in social interaction creates meaningful connections. No matter who you are, as you get older, cognitive stimulation is necessary to help keep your mind as sharp as possible. Having an activity to look forward to will help create some structure to your experience, and a positive outlook. Not only are activities good for your mental health, but also physical. Exercise programs of all levels will help maintain your strength and flexibility. Facilities have activities because it enhances resident’s quality of life. Choose to participate! 

Some activities facilities may offer: Trivia, Cards, morning stretch, movies, off campus trips, bingo, live music, crafts, and games. You can participate in all of these and more if you choose! 

Take Advantage of the Wide Range of Amenities Available 

The amenities at assisted living facilities are specifically designed for you, your needs, and your interests. You can enjoy helpful and entertaining amenities all in your community and a safe environment. These amenities can help to contribute to a better quality of life, and opportunities for socialization, relaxation, and feeling a connection to where you are living. At an assisted living facility, taking advantage of the amenities offered to you brings an opportunity to you that you might not have if you weren’t here. Most assisted living facilities cater to a wide variety of individuals and their interests.  

Some amenities a facility may offer: Ice cream parlor, beauty salon and barber shop, library, outdoor patios, a computer room with high-speed internet, a walking path, and free WI-FI access.  

Enhance Your Quality of Life with Assisted Living Services

Services are crucial in assisted living facilities because they provide the support and care you as a resident may need. Assisted living facilities offer on-site nursing, so there is no fear of waiting for help to arrive. They can provide professional on-site assistance to care for you to improve your overall quality of life. Housekeeping services offer a clean and safe environment, forget the burden of household chores and discover a piece of mind knowing your room and the facility is regularly cleaned. Some assisted living facilities offer scheduled medical transportation which gives you access to your healthcare needs in a safe manner. Get to your medical appointments, diagnostic tests, specialists and other healthcare services easily.  

Enjoy Delicious Homestyle Dining

Facilities may offer multiple meal selections and options for you to choose from. An experienced culinary team prepares healthy meals for you to enjoy and a comfortable ambiance. Something to look out for in an assisted living facility or when deciding to join one, is if they offer a certified dietician and individual dietary needs are reviewed for each individual dining plan (diabetic, no added salt, mechanical soft, dairy free, etc.). Some assisted living facilities offer private indoor dining rooms, residents can invite their families for special occasions to celebrate or get together. This may be different from “home” but homestyle dining offers daily social interaction, fresh meals, and a comfortable place to gather and enjoy. 

Be a Part of a Vibrant Community

In assisted living, you have the opportunity to meet people with similar interests or backgrounds, there’s a wide range of residents and everyone is welcome! You have the chance to create special friendships, create new stories and converse about old ones, and gain a sense of belonging. Assisted living communities bring joy, comfort, and excitement for the future. Having a maintenance-free lifestyle opens other doors for your well-being and your assisted living journey. 

Assisted living offers an abundance of ways to find joy in this new chapter. From enriching activities and a range of amenities to services offered and homestyle dining, being a part of a community creates a fulfilling lifestyle. Creating meaningful connections and embracing these new opportunities will lead to a worry-free environment and newfound happiness. We encourage you to find joy in the opportunities ahead and excitedly embrace what awaits in assisted living.  

How to Choose the Best Memory Care Facility in Loudoun County: If Your Loved One is Having Early Signs of Dementia

Contact the staff at Lansdowne Heights

August 4th, 2023 by Rachel Dimitroff

Memory Care

How to Find the Best in Loudoun County:
If Your Loved One is Having Early Signs of Dementia

According to the World Health Organization, more than 55 million people (about twice the population of Texas) worldwide are living with dementia. If your loved one has started showing signs of dementia and you are looking for a memory care facility in Loudoun County to provide them with proper and safe care, we’d like to help you in your search. Choosing a memory care facility can affect your loved one’s quality of life and overall well-being. In this blog, we will discuss making informed decisions, and how to find the best memory care facility for your loved one through proper research. 

What are the signs of early dementia? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, early dementia signs include problems with: 

  • Short-term memory. 
  • Keeping track of a purse or wallet. 
  • Paying bills. 
  • Planning and preparing meals. 
  • Remembering appointments. 
  • Traveling out of the neighborhood. 

Conditions usually start slow and progress as time goes on. Contact a doctor if you or your loved one are having difficulties with any of these signs.  

Location 

When choosing a location, your loved one being comfortable is most important. Is it a new area? Is it the same town they’ve lived in for years? It all depends on your loved ones or your preferences to find the best location to choose. According to The Ridge Senior Living, when choosing a location, the most important factors include how close the family is, the ability of the location to meet your loved ones needs, the surrounding area, and the facilities nearby. Begin your search with facilities near your loved one, it may be best for them to stay within an area they are familiar with and attach memories. 

Ratings and Reviews 

When researching memory care facilities for your loved one, it’s important to research ratings and reviews from family members of current residents. According to A Place for Mom, look for thoughtful reviews and how they compare to ratings, sometimes reviews can be biased or inaccurate, but it’s important to take the time to look and evaluate all the information in front of you. Certain specifics to look for when looking at reviews on websites are the amount, if it’s a family member, specific details, reoccurring topics, and verification of the review. If you find something negative, don’t be afraid to ask the facility more on that topic and evaluate their response when you go on a tour.  

Book a Tour 

Taking a tour of the potential memory care facility your loved one will be at is crucial. This is your time to assess the environment and cleanliness of the facility, if it gives off a positive ambiance. While on a tour, you will meet some staff who would be in charge of your loved one’s care and needs. You want to look for compassionate and kind employees who will put your loved one’s needs first. You have the opportunity to interact with staff and get a feel for their level of training and demeanor. During your tour, keep an eye out for safety precautions the facility takes, like secure entryways and staff to resident ratios. Many facilities offer levels of care or specialized care plans, you can learn more on your tour asking questions about their programs offered and how they evaluate residents with dementia.  

Remember, it is not you in memory care, consider your loved one’s comfortability in this facility and ask yourself if this is the best environment for them. 

Staff 

When it comes to memory care, the staff is extremely important to your loved one’s experience. Working in memory care takes passion, patience, and grace. Something to look out for at a memory care facility is if the staff are Certified Dementia Practitioners. They have a special knowledge and training in dementia care, and the various stages and challenges. They are trained in giving personalized care to each resident based on your loved one’s specific and unique needs. When dementia progresses, Certified Dementia Practitioners have the knowledge on how to manage behavior and use redirection techniques to create a supportive environment. Remember to ask on your tour if any of the facility’s staff are Certified Dementia Practitioners.  

Security and Safety 

What’s more important than safety? Many memory care units are designed for people living with dementia to do it safely and for families to feel comfortable their loved ones are in a protected environment. You want your loved one to be able to move around freely and not be in a confined space, which is why doing the proper research and asking the important questions is necessary. When residents can move freely and safely, it can help to reduce anxiety and confusion. That feeling of independence is important for them to hold on to, as A Place for Mom stated, “sheltered freedom.” Things to look for in a facility that promotes safety: 

  • Open floor plans 
  • Secure outdoor spaces 
  • Video monitors 
  • Wander Guard 
  • Locked doors 
  • Bed monitoring systems 

Cost and Financials 

As you begin your search for a memory care facility, you will notice the range in prices and how different needs could affect the overall cost of living. According to A Place for Mom, the national median of a memory care facility costs $5,800 a month in the United States. This can all be affected by location. It can be hard to grasp the amount of money memory care can be, let’s discuss what could be included in the price…24/7 care, bathing/dressing/grooming, housekeeping services, protocol systems, medication management, transportation, activities, amenities, and dining. Some memory care facilities offer all-inclusive pricing, paying only a monthly fee, regardless of which level of care is needed. 

When it comes to affording memory care, there are options. Insurance, savings and assets, veterans’ benefits, Medicaid, family support, state and local programs, nonprofit organizations, reverse mortgage, and life insurance conversions.  

Activities and Amenities 

When doing your research, look out for activity calendars that offer stimulating programs for residents, especially in memory care. Most facilities offer fun and engaging activities for all residents and some specifically are tailored towards residents with dementia. Having amenities like patios, hair salons, a library, WI-FI and more helps your loved one feel at home and able to independently still make choices. Activities help your loved one stay active and build a sense of daily structure, which can improve their mood.  

Trust Your Gut Feeling 

When deciding or researching a memory care facility, trusting your intuition is an important factor to consider. Ask yourself if it feels right for your loved one and create a pros and cons list. When you tour a memory care facility, you may feel an emotional connection to that facility, or you may not. The atmosphere of the facility can either bring you comfort or warning signs, ask yourself: 

 Is it a warm environment?  

Does it seem well-maintained?  

Is the staff engaging and compassionate? 

Are their safety measures being implemented? 

Do they offer daily stimulating activities? 

Your gut is a powerful tool, this is an important time to use it and trust it. Your loved one needs proper care with a patient care team ready to create a fulfilling life for them. If you are struggling with your loved one’s diagnosis and need to talk to someone, The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers Alzheimer’s and Dementia support groups. You can also research in your local town the support groups that are offered.  

You and your loved one are not alone in this search, there are many resources and opportunities to create a beautiful life. Take the time to do the proper research and consider the right care your loved one needs.  

Navigating Memory Care: A Comprehensive Planning Guide for Families

July 3rd, 2023 by Rachel Dimitroff

Navigating Memory Care:

A Comprehensive Planning Guide for Families

Watching someone you love experience memory loss and confusion can be emotionally challenging. You’ve come to the decision memory care is the best form of support your loved one needs and will offer them the best quality of life. In this blog, we will dive into what steps are next, giving you the knowledge and resources to make the essential choices for your loved one. We all want our loved ones to receive compassionate care and the correct amount of attention, so let’s get started. 

#1 Research Memory Care Communities  

After deciding, an easy first step to research is typing in memory care facilities in you or your loved one’s area. Click around and spend some time on the websites that appear. When researching in the designated area, take the time to focus on pricing. Some facilities offer a monthly fee or “all-inclusive”, while others offer prices based on the level of care your loved one needs. Pricing can have a significant impact where you choose, but other factors like amenities, services, location and reviews also play a role.  

When it comes to amenities, it’s important facilities offer assistance with daily activities. Daily activities include bathing, dressing, and medication management. Activities with cognitive stimulation and social engagement will be vital to your loved one’s overall well-being and cognitive function. Locate the top facilities within budget that you believe will promote the best sense of belonging and a reduced feeling of isolation. 

#2 Take a Tour 

It’s important to see the facilities in person rather than on their website. Observe your visit closely. Pay attention to whether the staff are friendly and helpful, if the residents look happy, and if it feels comfortable. Explore the kind of activities going on, art therapy, puzzles, music, are some of the stimulating activities memory care facilities should be offering. On this tour, it’s important to be able to ask questions and come prepared. Evaluate the safety and security measures being followed, handrails, well-lit rooms, and secure outdoor areas. The “fun stuff” on a tour is important, keep tabs if the amenities match what they advertise on their website, if they are up to standard as well as checking to see if their nurses are Certified Dementia Practitioners. 

When touring a facility, ask questions regarding the staff to resident ratio to evaluate if proper personalized care will be provided. This is your time to express any concerns, ask questions, and see the physical environment for yourself. 

#3 Evaluate Financial Planning and Support 

To understand and be up to date, you’ll need to explore funding options. Consulting with a financial advisor to look at your loved one’s financial situation can help you determine the best payment options. Familiarize yourself with the different costs like meals, accommodations, and specialized programs. Create a budget if needed, and plan for any future needs for your loved one as the disease progresses.  

Evaluate your loved one’s financial situation; their income, savings, and assets. You can explore funding options to help with the cost of memory care, like Medicaid. If you plan on creating a budget, take into account any ongoing costs for your loved one, medical and personal, to make sure you or your loved one does not have any financial strain in the future. Joining a support group can help you learn from other’s experiences and get advice from others in similar situations. 

#4 Discuss a Care Plan in Advance 

It’s important to develop a care plan which is individually based on your loved one’s specific needs. This disease will eventually take away their ability to make cognizant decisions when it comes to health. It’s important to lay out from the beginning what the necessary steps are to take as this disease continues to progress. Creating a will in advance will allow your loved one’s assets and belongings to be distributed how they specified before the turn of the diagnosis. Choosing a power of attorney, AKA “proxy”, should be someone close and able to make proper medical decisions. Check out more about financial planning when choosing memory care. 

Include family members and healthcare professionals when creating and deciding on your loved one’s treatment. Discussing treatment options with doctors and geriatric specialists can help lead you to make the proper decisions about care options, for treatment, medication, and symptom management. Remember to consider your loved one’s preferences so you can make decisions tailored to them and their needs. One of the most important reminders with a loved one in memory care is regularly review and update the plan. If your loved one’s condition has changed, it may be time to reevaluate the care plan and treatment options.  

#5 Plan and Prepare for the Transition 

As your loved one moves into memory care, here are three main things to remember: 

-Change the mailing address to your loved one’s new address. 

-Cancel any cable and Wi-Fi subscriptions. 

-Update addresses on cards and accounts. 

Being prepared will make the transition much smoother and more efficient. Prepare for the emotional transition as well, openly communicate with your loved one on their needs and preferences. For example, validate their emotions, take part in activities with them, create a personalized living space to keep your loved one comfortable, seek support for yourself if you need, and stay positive! Click here for more information on packing for memory care. 

When preparing for the transition of your loved one into a memory care facility, make sure to share all relevant information with the facility staff. Letting the staff know their medical history, needs, and daily routines will help to ensure a proper transition because it will be a big change for them. From then on, actively staying engaged with your loved one, staff, and the facility will help you to stay up to date on their well-being and any changes.
 

Deciding memory care is the best form of care for your loved one, is not easy. But, by taking the proactive steps needed, you can help ensure your loved one has the best possible care and life. This transition can bring many mixed emotions to you, your family and your loved one. Remind yourself you are making a decision to prioritize your loved one’s health, safety, comfort and well-being. Stay on top of your and the facilities communication and always openly address concerns. Embrace this new chapter. You are not alone in this ride, seek help and assistance where needed, spend time with your loved one, visit them for events, connect with their stories and remember to always celebrate small victories.   

Book a tour here to see if we’re the right fit for your loved one.