6 Essential Questions to Ask a Memory Care Community
Choosing a memory care community for a loved one is a decision most families approach with both hope and concern. Families want reassurance that their loved one will receive specialized care that supports overall health. Asking the right questions before moving forward makes all the difference in understanding whether a memory care community can meet your family’s expectations.
At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living in Brookfield, Wisconsin, we believe informed families feel more confident and supported when considering dementia care options. Below are six essential questions to ask a memory care community before making this important decision.
1. How Does the Memory Care Community Address Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Symptoms?
Alzheimer’s disease and other memory challenges affect each resident differently. Dementia affects cognition, daily tasks, and emotional well-being in unique ways. Asking how a community responds to these different stages reveals whether they provide specialized care.
Most memory care communities focus on dementia care that may include therapies or sensory-based programs to support engagement and comfort. At Lakewood, the Holistic Memory Care Program is based on Montessori principles. This program encourages physical engagement and emotional expression while also supporting continued discovery, helping residents through different stages of memory challenges.
Families should also ask about support for challenging behaviors. As the disease progresses, some residents may experience agitation or periods of unease. Staff members with dementia specific training are better prepared to guide residents toward calm and meaningful activities that improve quality of life.
2. What Safety Features and Security Measures Are in Place?
Safety is one of the most important priorities for memory care residents. Many families want to know about safety features and security measures that prevent accidents while promoting comfort.
When touring, consider asking:
How are doors and common areas secured?
Some communities also incorporate wearable smart devices that help monitor safety and provide reassurance to families.
What role does the maintenance team play in ensuring safe spaces?
At Lakewood, families appreciate details such as ionized air filtering that removes harmful particulates, frequent staff cleaning, and a walkable community with safe outdoor paths. These measures provide peace of mind while still encouraging residents to promote independence through daily activity.
3. What Type of Care Plan and Personalized Care Support Is Offered?
Every resident deserves personalized care that respects their personal preferences. Asking about a care plan helps families understand whether the community follows a one-size-fits-all approach or embraces person directed care.
A thorough care plan should include:
Nutrition through a structured dining program, including details on how many meals are served daily.
Help with daily tasks such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.
Guidance on how community staff handle medical appointments and coordinate with health care providers.
At Lakewood, personalized care plans are created to honor the routines and values of each resident. This can include special areas for family members to host events, spiritual activities, and private dining experiences. Person-centered planning makes all the difference in creating comfort as the disease progresses.
4. How Are Staff Members Trained to Deliver Dementia Care?
The quality of a care community is reflected in its staff members. Many families whether there are the same staff members or the same caregiver consistently present, and how dementia training is reinforced.
A good question is whether staff complete specialized training or are specially trained for dementia care. Ask if the community works with organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association to ensure education stays current.
Outside professionals, such as a registered nurse, can play an important role in helping families review care options and evaluate overall health needs.
Lakewood's leadership team includes a Health Services Director and an Executive Director who oversee health monitoring and guide memory care support, including medication management. Along with memory care support, families often coordinate with the same health care providers their loved one already knows, helping ensure continuity in overall health.
5. What Living Arrangements and Amenities Are Available?
A resident’s comfort often depends on the living arrangements and environment. Ask whether the community offers options that accommodate different stages of memory challenges. Families should also ask about programs that encourage resident participation and improve quality of daily life.
Lakewood provides garden plots and meditation sessions, along with access to a calming Sensory Spa. Engaging activities may include armchair yoga and therapy dog visits, with additional opportunities for residents to volunteer and stay activeAmenities such as private dining and social hours are available, while residents also enjoy access to nearby shops and parks for added variety.
The combination of engaging activities and a supportive senior living setting allows families to see how a resident’s well being is nurtured beyond basic care.
6. What Are the Financial Expectations and Monthly Fees?
Transparency about monthly fees and living expenses are essential. Most families want to know what is included, whether extra charges apply for specialized support, and how services compare with a nursing home model.
Ask whether pricing includes meals and activities. Clarify how medical care coordination with outside health care providers is handled. Many families also value clear explanations of how fees might adjust as a loved one’s health changes.
At Lakewood, fees are all-inclusive, covering daily support, nutritious meals, memory care programming, and a safe, caring environment. Having financial clarity ensures families feel confident that their loved one receives the support they need while planning responsibly for the future.
Choosing a Memory Care Community for Your Loved One
By focusing on key questions to ask a memory care community, families can better ensure their loved one receives support in a safe environment. From personalized care plans to dedicated staff members, these details reveal whether a community can meet your family’s expectations.
Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living is proud to offer a safe and welcoming home for seniors in Brookfield, Wisconsin. If you’re exploring options for dementia care, we encourage you to reach out today. Contact our executive director and schedule a tour to see firsthand how our community can enhance your loved one’s quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What role do family members play in a memory care community?
Families are encouraged to participate in events and collaborate with staff to support a resident’s care plan.
2. How close is Lakewood to the nearest hospital?
Our community is located near Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital, giving families reassurance that emergency support is available nearby if needed.
3. What resources are available for families learning about dementia?
Outside professionals, such as a registered nurse, can play an important role in helping families review care options and evaluate overall health needs. The Alzheimer’s Association provides education and caregiver support, along with additional resources many families find useful when facing dementia challenges.