Virginia Memory Care Facilities

Virginia dementia care homes have seen an increase in popularity and demand over the last decade. The state wedged between the iconic Appalachian Mountains to the west, and Atlantic Ocean to the east, is one of the more beautiful places to live for seniors, and the rates for memory care here are definitely affordable.

The Old Dominion state ranks within the Top 20 of most expensive states for memory care, yet at 16th, a vast majority of the mid-Atlantic and northeastern states of the U.S. are well ahead of Virginia in terms unaffordability. As a result, you can expect to find good value at the top ranked Virginia Alzheimer’s care facilities.

Detailed Cost of Memory Care in Virginia

Virginia dementia care homes average in price at $164 per month, or a little under $5,000 per month at approximately $4,900. The median is right around the national average, just $4 dollars more per month compared to $160. Thus, seniors can expect the same quality of care and healthcare coverage in Virginia as in other parts of the mid-Atlantic and northeast, but at cheaper costs.

The bottom ten percent of Alzheimer’s care homes in Virginia (otherwise known as the least expensive) charge only $3,000 per month, or approximately $100 per day. Meanwhile, the top ten percent (or most expensive) average a little over $8,000 per month, or about $270 per day. A difference of around $5,000 per month does exist between the least expensive to the most expensive, so if your family is on a tight budget, it is advisable that you do a little extra research to find the most affordable providers.

The state currently has a population of around 8 million residents, with Virginia Beach by far the most populated at 425,000+ people. Norfolk (population 240,000+), Chesapeake (population 222,000+) and Richmond (population 200,000+) are all massive metropolitan areas as well.

Newport News, Alexandria, Hampton, Portsmouth and Roanoke all have significant populations in a very dense part of the United States in terms of large cities. The best selection of affordable dementia care facilities in Virginia are often found in these larger cities, though some rural areas also provide them. The table below details average memory care costs in Vermont:

Medicaid and Medicare Coverage of Memory Care in Virginia

In Virginia, memory care refers to specialized services and facilities designed to help individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These facilities provide a safe, structured environment with trained staff to assist with daily living activities. Both Medicaid and Medicare can provide coverage for memory care services, but the specifics depend on the type of care needed and the eligibility of the individual.

Medicaid Coverage for Memory Care in Virginia

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps low-income individuals with healthcare needs. In Virginia, Medicaid offers support for those who qualify, including coverage for memory care services. However, not all memory care services are covered directly by Medicaid, and there are specific rules that apply.

1. Eligibility for Medicaid
   To be eligible for Medicaid in Virginia, an individual must meet certain financial and medical criteria. For elderly individuals (aged 65 and older), eligibility is based on income and asset limits. The person must also be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and a Virginia resident. If a person is already receiving Medicaid, their eligibility for memory care services will be assessed based on their level of care needs.

2. Medicaid Waivers for Memory Care
   In Virginia, there are Medicaid Waivers available to help cover the costs of memory care services. The two main waivers related to memory care are:

   • The Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus (CCC Plus) Waiver: This program provides care coordination for individuals with long-term care needs, including those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. It may help pay for services like personal care, nursing, and adult day services.
   • The Elderly or Disabled with Consumer Direction (EDCD) Waiver: This waiver allows individuals to receive services in their homes or in a nursing facility. It covers a range of services, including personal care and other assistance that might be needed by someone with dementia.

3. Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
   Medicaid can also pay for long-term care in nursing homes, and some memory care facilities are licensed as part of skilled nursing homes. Medicaid covers the cost of room, board, and necessary medical care in a nursing home, but typically does not cover the cost of care in non-medical memory care facilities (also called assisted living facilities) unless the individual needs a nursing home level of care.

4. Long-Term Services and Supports
   Medicaid also provides long-term services and supports (LTSS) for people who require ongoing assistance with daily activities. This can include things like medication management, assistance with eating, and personal care services. In Virginia, Medicaid will cover the cost of some of these services in a memory care facility if the individual qualifies for the necessary level of care.

Medicare Coverage for Memory Care in Virginia

Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 or older, and it covers a wide range of healthcare services. However, Medicare's coverage of memory care services is more limited compared to Medicaid.

1. Inpatient Care in a Hospital
   Medicare will cover inpatient hospital stays for people with dementia or other cognitive disorders if they require acute medical care. This may include a stay in a hospital to manage medical conditions related to dementia or Alzheimer's disease, but Medicare will not cover a long-term stay in a memory care facility, even if the individual has dementia.

2. Short-Term Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Care
   Medicare may cover short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility (SNF) after a hospital stay, but the coverage is only for rehabilitation or medically necessary skilled care. This means that Medicare will not pay for memory care in an SNF unless the person needs skilled nursing services (such as physical therapy or other medical interventions) for a short time after being discharged from the hospital.

3. Home Health Care
   Medicare may cover home health care for individuals with dementia if they need specific medical services, such as skilled nursing care or physical therapy. If an individual is receiving memory care at home, Medicare may help cover certain types of care, but it will not cover long-term or custodial care, such as assistance with daily activities like bathing or dressing.

4. Medicare Advantage Plans
   Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer additional benefits for memory care services that are not covered under traditional Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and can include extra coverage for services like adult day care, home care, and certain types of therapies that might be beneficial for those with dementia. However, the availability and coverage of these services can vary from one plan to another.

Memory Care vs Dementia Care vs Assisted Living in Virginia

When considering long-term care options in Virginia for elderly individuals, it is important to understand the differences between memory care, dementia care, and assisted living. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to distinct levels of care tailored to specific needs, especially related to cognitive health and daily living assistance. Understanding these options can help families make informed decisions about the right type of care for their loved ones.

Memory Care in Virginia

Memory care refers to a specialized form of long-term care designed for individuals with memory loss, including those with Alzheimer's disease, other forms of dementia, or age-related cognitive decline. In Virginia, memory care facilities are typically housed within secured environments to ensure safety, as individuals with advanced memory loss may wander or become confused.

Key features of memory care in Virginia include:

• 24/7 Supervision: Memory care units provide constant supervision and care to ensure that residents are safe at all times. This is especially important for individuals who may have difficulty recognizing danger or remembering how to perform basic tasks.
• Personalized Care Plans: Care in memory care units is often highly personalized, with staff members developing care plans based on the individual’s cognitive abilities, preferences, and medical history.
• Structured Activities: Memory care communities offer daily activities that are specifically designed to engage individuals with memory loss. These activities aim to maintain cognitive function, reduce anxiety, and improve quality of life.
• Secure Environments: To prevent wandering, which is common in dementia patients, memory care units are typically secured with locked doors or enclosed spaces. This helps ensure that residents do not get lost or endanger themselves.
• Staff Training: Staff members in memory care units are often specifically trained in dementia and Alzheimer’s care, providing expertise in managing behaviors, understanding cognitive decline, and responding to emergencies.

In Virginia, memory care is often provided in either stand-alone memory care communities or as part of larger assisted living facilities that have designated memory care wings. These facilities are regulated by the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and must adhere to strict guidelines for care, safety, and the training of personnel.

Dementia Care in Virginia

Dementia care is similar to memory care but focuses specifically on the needs of individuals with various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. While the terms "memory care" and "dementia care" are often used interchangeably, dementia care typically emphasizes a higher level of support for those with more complex cognitive impairments.

Key characteristics of dementia care in Virginia include:

• Advanced Support for Cognitive Impairments: Dementia care focuses more intensely on individuals with severe cognitive decline. This includes tailored interventions to address specific symptoms of dementia, such as confusion, aggression, or anxiety.
• Specialized Therapies: Dementia care programs may offer specialized therapies such as reminiscence therapy (using memory recall to improve cognitive function), music therapy, or pet therapy, which can help improve emotional well-being and cognitive functioning.
• Behavioral Management: Dementia care units are equipped to manage challenging behaviors that may arise as a result of dementia, including aggression, hallucinations, and agitation. Staff are trained in non-pharmacological approaches to managing these behaviors.
• Safety Features: Like memory care, dementia care communities are often locked and secure to prevent wandering and ensure that residents are not at risk of leaving the facility unsupervised. These features are designed to provide a controlled environment that reduces stress and confusion.

Virginia’s dementia care programs are often included within memory care units or specialized dementia care facilities. Regulations for dementia care in the state are aligned with memory care standards, ensuring that residents receive safe, effective care.

Assisted Living in Virginia

Assisted living in Virginia is designed for individuals who need help with daily activities, but do not require the intensive care provided by memory care or dementia units. Assisted living facilities are ideal for individuals who are generally independent but need support with tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation.

Key aspects of assisted living in Virginia include:

• Support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Assisted living residents may require help with ADLs, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and using the restroom. Care is provided based on individual needs, but assistance is generally not as intensive as that offered in memory care or dementia care units.
• Social and Recreational Activities: Assisted living communities in Virginia emphasize socialization and recreation. These facilities typically offer a range of activities, such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, and outings, which encourage residents to remain engaged and connected.
• Access to Health Care: While not as intensive as memory care or dementia care, assisted living residents in Virginia may have access to medical staff, including nurses and physicians, who provide support with medication management, chronic condition monitoring, and general health care.
• Less Restrictive Environment: Assisted living facilities in Virginia are typically not locked or secured in the same way as memory care or dementia units. This allows for a greater level of freedom and independence, though some facilities may have security features in place to ensure safety.

In Virginia, assisted living facilities are licensed and regulated by the VDSS. They must meet state requirements for staffing levels, staff qualifications, safety standards, and care plans.

Key Differences and Choosing the Right Option

The main differences between memory care, dementia care, and assisted living in Virginia revolve around the level of cognitive impairment and the intensity of care required:

• Memory Care is designed for individuals with moderate to advanced memory loss, providing a secure and structured environment with specialized care and activities.
• Dementia Care focuses on individuals with dementia-related disorders, often offering a more intense level of care and behavioral management than memory care, with additional therapies and a focus on managing dementia symptoms.
• Assisted Living is best suited for individuals who need some help with daily tasks but do not require the specialized care that memory or dementia care provides. It offers a more independent lifestyle, with support available for personal care needs.

Virginia Dementia Care - Amenities

Alzheimer’s care facilities in Virginia are traditionally part of a larger assisted living center or nursing home, though some of the homes are also part of a memory care community that is exclusive to Alzheimer’s patients.

Regardless of the situation, standard amenities include daily meal servings, programs scheduled throughout the day, activities intended for personal productivity and leisure, housekeeping, extended visitation hours for friends and families of residents, and security features specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s.

Getting lost and wandering are common, unfortunate symptoms of Alzheimer’s. So, safety features like 24/7 monitoring, security pendants, automatically locking doors, color coded walls for navigation, easy room identifications, and other similar amenities are common in the best Virginia memory care communities.

Here's a more detailed list of the common amenities in Virginia memory care homes:

Standard Amenities in Virginia’s Memory Care Facilities

1. Daily Meal Servings
   Memory care facilities in Virginia typically provide three well-balanced meals a day, with snacks offered throughout the day. The menus are often designed to meet specific dietary needs, and staff members are trained to assist residents with eating if needed. Many facilities also offer specialized diets, including low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, or heart-healthy options.

2. Structured Programs and Activities
   Programs and activities are tailored to the abilities and needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. These activities focus on mental stimulation, physical exercise, and social engagement. Examples include memory games, arts and crafts, music therapy, exercise classes, and outings to local attractions. Many Virginia memory care facilities also provide personal productivity activities like gardening or pet therapy, all aimed at maintaining cognitive function and enhancing quality of life.

3. Housekeeping and Maintenance
   Memory care facilities in Virginia offer regular housekeeping and laundry services to ensure that residents' living spaces remain clean and comfortable. Staff also handle maintenance tasks like repairing broken fixtures or appliances, which allows residents to focus on their well-being.

4. Visitation Hours
   Extended visitation hours are often a key feature of memory care communities, allowing family and friends to visit their loved ones at more convenient times. Many facilities also encourage family involvement in care planning, so relatives can remain actively engaged in their loved one’s care journey.

Specialized Security Features for Alzheimer’s Patients

Safety is a top priority in memory care facilities, especially considering the wandering behaviors often associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Several safety features are typically incorporated to mitigate these risks:

1. 24/7 Monitoring
   To prevent residents from getting lost or wandering at night, many facilities provide round-the-clock monitoring. This could include live staff supervision or the use of electronic systems to track residents’ movements throughout the building.

2. Security Pendants and Wearables
   Many facilities issue residents with security pendants or wearable devices that allow staff to locate and assist them if they wander outside designated areas. These devices often include features such as emergency buttons to alert staff to any potential danger.

3. Locked Doors and Secure Entry Points
   To prevent wandering and keep residents safe, many memory care communities have locked doors, including entryways and exit doors. These locks may be designed to be discreet, reducing stress or confusion among residents, while still ensuring safety.

4. Color-Coded Walls and Easy Room Identifications
   To help residents with Alzheimer’s navigate their environment, some memory care facilities use color-coded walls or signs, along with large, clear labels for rooms and areas. This simple but effective design helps residents recognize their surroundings and find their way to important areas, like their own room or dining hall.

5. Alarm Systems and Surveillance
   Many communities employ alarm systems on doors and windows that are specifically designed to alert staff if a resident is attempting to leave the premises without assistance. These systems are vital for preventing wandering, a common challenge for people with advanced Alzheimer’s.

Additional Features for Comfort and Engagement

1. Personalized Care Plans
   Memory care facilities in Virginia offer personalized care plans based on the unique needs and abilities of each resident. These plans are regularly updated to ensure that the care provided aligns with the changing needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s.

2. Therapeutic Activities and Environments
   In addition to structured programs, some Virginia memory care facilities create environments that promote relaxation and mental stimulation. This can include sensory gardens, memory walls, and sensory rooms designed to engage residents with sight, sound, and touch. These spaces are often calm and soothing, promoting emotional well-being for residents.

3. Resident-Centered Care
   Many memory care communities in Virginia emphasize a resident-centered approach, which respects the preferences and dignity of individuals. This includes allowing residents to personalize their living spaces and making sure they have choices in their daily routines.

Virginia Memory Care Admission Checklist

Before a senior can be admitted to a memory care community in Virginia, they must have a physical exam administered by a physician working outside the facility. The person’s required assistance and services will also have to be identified, so a Uniform Assessment Instrument or UAI is also completed for the potential resident.

Being diagnosed with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia is required for admission. If the senior has or exhibits any of the following, then a Virginia assisted living facility may decline their application.

• Reliant on a ventilator
• Requires a level of care that the facility is unlicensed to provide
• Requires a level of care that the facility is not capable of delivering (maybe due to lack of equipment or staff skills and training)
• Requires IV therapy injections (some exceptions may apply)
• Diagnosed with Stage 3 or 4 dermal ulcers, unless an independent physician determines that the Stage 3 ulcer is already healing
• Requires to be isolated due to airborne infectious sickness
• Requires 24/7 nursing care
• Requires psychotropic treatments without suitable prescription
• Is a potential threat to self, other residents, and the facility's staff

Secured Memory Care Units

Assisted living facilities in Virginia are designed to be safe and comfortable for their residents. In special care units like memory care, the state requires that a higher level of security is applied.

Given the residents' profile, tightened security necessitates all doors leading outside the community to be controlled and monitored. All windows should also be installed with protective measures and devices to ensure maximum protection for the residents.

While all entry and exit points are controlled, there must be a walking area easily accessible to all residents. This creates a balance between limiting their capacity to leave the premises and giving them the freedom to explore and exercise within the compound.

Here is a detailed list of security measures typically employed in memory care facilities in Virginia:

1. Secure Entry and Exit Points

Memory care facilities often have controlled access to prevent residents from wandering outside unsupervised. These facilities may use locked doors or gates, with access granted only to staff members or authorized visitors. Keypad codes, keycards, or biometric systems may be used to ensure that only approved individuals can enter or exit the building. These entry points are also monitored by surveillance systems to detect any unusual or unauthorized activity.

2. Wandering Prevention Systems

A primary concern in memory care facilities is the risk of residents wandering away, especially those with advanced dementia. Many facilities install wandering prevention systems, such as:

• Electronic Door Systems: These systems trigger an alarm when a resident approaches or opens a door that leads to an unsecured area.
• WanderGuard Technology: This system uses wearable bracelets or anklets that alert staff if a resident tries to leave the facility or enters restricted areas.
• Locked Unit Design: The physical layout of memory care units is designed to minimize the risk of wandering. This may include enclosed outdoor areas where residents can safely enjoy the outdoors without risk of elopement.

3. Surveillance and Monitoring Systems

Memory care facilities in Virginia are often equipped with sophisticated surveillance systems to ensure the safety of residents and staff. These systems may include:

• CCTV Cameras: Strategically placed cameras monitor public spaces, such as hallways, dining areas, and common rooms. These cameras help detect potential safety issues, such as falls, altercations, or wandering.
• Motion Sensors: Motion detectors may be installed in certain areas to track movement patterns and detect irregular behavior. Staff members can be alerted if a resident is in an area where they shouldn’t be or if they fall.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Some facilities use centralized monitoring systems that allow staff to keep track of the movements of residents throughout the facility in real time.

4. Trained and Adequately Staffed Personnel

A crucial part of security in memory care facilities is the presence of properly trained staff. Employees are often trained in:

• Behavior Management: Staff are trained to manage challenging behaviors, such as aggression, agitation, and resistance to care. This training ensures that staff can de-escalate situations safely and avoid incidents.
• Wandering Prevention: Staff are trained to recognize when a resident may be at risk of wandering and how to prevent it. This includes redirecting residents, providing meaningful activities, and ensuring doors are secured.
• Emergency Protocols: In case of an emergency, staff are trained in evacuation procedures, CPR, first aid, and how to safely assist residents during a crisis.

5. Safe and Enclosed Outdoor Spaces

Many memory care facilities in Virginia have enclosed, secure outdoor spaces where residents can enjoy fresh air without the risk of wandering off the property. These areas are designed to be visually appealing, with calming features like gardens, paths, and seating. The outdoor spaces are often surrounded by high, secure fences or walls and monitored closely by staff to prevent residents from leaving the area.

6. Personal Emergency Response Systems

Some memory care facilities provide personal emergency response systems (PERS) to residents. These systems typically involve wearable devices, such as pendants or wristbands, that allow residents to call for help if needed. These devices can alert staff when a resident is in distress, ensuring that assistance is provided promptly.

7. Restricted Access to Hazardous Areas

Memory care facilities take steps to limit access to areas where residents could be at risk, such as kitchens, utility rooms, or storage areas with dangerous chemicals. These areas are either locked or monitored by staff to prevent residents from accidentally entering and getting hurt.

8. Security Lighting

Proper lighting is an important security measure in memory care facilities, particularly for nighttime safety. Well-lit hallways, stairways, and entry points reduce the risk of accidents and falls. Motion-activated lighting can be used in certain areas to ensure that paths are always well-lit when residents are moving about at night.

9. Regular Safety Audits

Many memory care facilities conduct regular safety audits to assess the effectiveness of their security measures. These audits may include checking for potential hazards, ensuring that all systems are functioning correctly, and reviewing staff protocols for emergency situations. Regular reviews help identify and address any gaps in security.

10. Emergency and Disaster Preparedness

Memory care facilities are required to have emergency preparedness plans in place. This includes:

• Fire Safety Systems: Smoke detectors, fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire evacuation plans are essential in case of fire emergencies. Staff are trained to evacuate residents quickly and safely.
• Natural Disaster Preparedness: Facilities must be prepared for weather-related emergencies, such as hurricanes, floods, or snowstorms, with plans for evacuation and supplies like food, water, and medications.

11. Communication Systems

Effective communication systems are critical in memory care settings. Staff rely on walkie-talkies, pagers, or other instant communication tools to stay in contact with each other. In case of an emergency, this ensures that the right people can respond quickly and that residents receive the care they need.

12. Visitor Screening

To further ensure security, many memory care facilities have procedures for screening visitors. Visitors may need to sign in, show identification, and be escorted by staff members while on the premises. These procedures help prevent unauthorized individuals from entering the facility and ensure that residents are only interacting with approved visitors.

13. De-escalation Training

Staff in memory care facilities receive de-escalation training to handle situations involving aggression or agitation from residents. This training focuses on communication techniques and calming strategies that can prevent situations from becoming violent or dangerous.

14. Resident-Centered Security

Memory care facilities strive to balance security with residents’ dignity and independence. Security measures are designed to be as unobtrusive as possible, allowing residents to feel comfortable and respected while ensuring their safety. This includes using subtle but effective security devices and integrating them into the physical environment in a way that does not feel overly restrictive or punitive.

Memory Care Regulations in Virginia

Like other states, Virginia has imposed strict regulations on memory care units to ensure that an excellent quality of standardized service is always delivered to all of their residents.

Care Plan

Within the first three months of a resident’s admission to an ALF in Virginia, they must go through a one-on-one personal assessment in order to promptly identify their physical and mental state, needs, and services required. Within one month following this initial assessment, a comprehensive care plan must be completed. If possible and necessary, a behavioral assessment and a fall risk rating should also be accomplished. The care that each resident will be receiving and duly provided by the facility is outlined in their individual care plans.

This care plan is reviewed, updated, and modified annually. It can be more frequent should there be any changes in the health and behavior of the resident.

Facility

The State of Virginia specifies that the private rooms and units in memory care facilities should provide 100 square feet for a single occupant, or at least 80 sq. ft for every person if there are several occupants. In a single bedroom, the maximum number of occupants is only two. The only exception here is the year when the community was built. Residences constructed before 2006 are allowed to have a maximum of four occupants per room. But regardless of the year a facility was erected, it should provide one toilet and sink for every four residents and a shower or tub for every seven residents.

Staffing Ratio and Training

The State of Virginia does not specify any staff-to-resident ratio for memory care homes. But the rule of thumb is that there should always be an adequate number of workers equipped with both the knowledge and skills to assist and care for the residents with dementia at all times. These staff members must also be ready to implement the facility's fire plan or any emergency evacuation protocol. In addition, there should be one CPR-certified staff on duty 24/7.

In Virginia, every assisted living community should have all its staff under contract. This team must include a licensed healthcare professional who provides the overall plan and guidance on the residents' care. The facility should also employ a licensed pharmacist for medications and prescriptions, as well as a dietician for residents who require special diets. Licensed nurses are likewise required to be part of the critical staff members for treatment and nursing care.

Personnel directly working with the memory care residents should have completed training specifically for dementia care. These team members must go through six hours of upskilling specific to caring for residents with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

All staff of a facility must be subjected to background checks as part of the pre-employment checklist. No facility can employ an individual convicted of a barrier crime. This regulation is defined in 22 VAC 40-90-10 of the State of Virginia.

Medication Management

Living facilities in Virginia are mandated to have their medication management plans in writing and included in every resident's care plan. Residents capable of and competent in self-administering their medicines are permitted to do so. Otherwise, assistance can be provided by staff members who are licensed and registered medical aides.

When Is The Right Time to Move To Memory Care?

Making the choice of moving your loved one to a memory care facility can prove beneficial when done at the correct time and under the right circumstances.

Your loved one, the facility workers, and the rest of the family will find it more advantageous to transition them when it's not already too late. Since the progress of dementia is unique for every person, you can watch out for changes in their health and behavior, and then use those as the basis in finally deciding to make the move.

You want your senior to adjust to the memory care community environment as seamlessly as possible so that even while their dementia progresses, they can still enjoy socializing engagements and having well-trained professionals to assist them. Moving them to memory care is the best decision you can make because you are putting their safety and needs as your top priority.

Here are some changes and experiences you and your loved one will expect to go through in the following weeks, months, and years after dementia is diagnosed. With each sign indicating that the worst is yet to come, you can make the best decision now, and together.

• Declining physical health
• Mental, emotional, and psychological challenges
• Incontinence and mobility issues
• Violent outbursts and confrontations
• Wandering away, getting lost and being found cycle
• Involving the police and local law enforcement for assistance
• Family discords
• Isolation and depression
• Poor time management
• Inadequate nursing care

Making a choice for the family or as a family member will never be easy, but moving your loved one to memory care doesn't mean that you stop being a family. You may not be there with them 24/7, but you can remain involved and be an active participant in the life of your senior.

Questions to Ask When Touring a Memory Care Community in Virginia

Getting a schedule set for you to tour a memory care facility in the state of Virginia could be an overwhelming experience. It is an indication that you have to make a decision soon, and to be 100% sure with it because many people will be affected by your choice.

On the other hand, a tour may also ease your worries and calm your fears. It can be an avenue for you to have your questions answered and reduce your hesitations.

When you visit a prospective memory care community, you must leave your expectations behind and go inside with an open heart and mind. Learn as much as you can by putting your questions out in the open. Don't let anything stop you from seeking clarifications because this is the perfect opportunity for your questions to be answered.

It would be best to list down your questions before the tour, and then you can ask more as you go along. Here are some items to get you started, but it is highly recommended that you make specific inquiries tailored to your family member's characteristics.

• How many doctors, RNs, licensed medical practitioners do you regularly employ?
• On average, how many residents does the particular unit have?
• What are the security measures you have in place?
• How does a resident's day to day life/activities look like?
• How do you handle emergencies and special situations?
• How can I remain involved in my loved one's life despite our separation?
• What should I expect from the facility while my loved one is staying here?
• What makes you the ideal memory care unit? What sets you apart from others?