Choosing Memory Care with Confidence
September 19, 2025 | Assisted Living, Benaroya Community Services, Health & Wellness
Selecting the right memory care provider is one of the most important decisions families face. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias affect nearly 7 million Americans today; by 2050, that number will be 13 million. Memory care is the fastest growing senior living choice. Families want peace of mind knowing their loved one is not only safe but thriving in a supportive, dignified environment. The right fit can make a profound difference in quality of life by enhancing engagement, reducing behavioral challenges, and improving overall well-being.
So how can you make sure you’ve found the right match? Here are five essential questions to ask when evaluating memory care providers, and why they matter.
- What specialized training does your staff receive?
Caring for individuals with memory loss requires unique skills. Research shows that specialized dementia training improves caregivers’ knowledge and confidence. It also improves resident outcomes, with fewer hospital visits. Redirecting behaviors with patience and compassion, using communication strategies to reduce frustration, and fostering daily activities for independence are approaches that are effective. Asking this question ensures your loved one will be cared for by people who understand the complexities of memory care.
- How do you keep residents engaged and active?
As mentioned above, a high-quality memory care program goes beyond meeting basic needs. Art, music, exercise, reminiscence therapy, sensory stimulation, and other meaningful activities have been shown to reduce agitation, improve mood, and even slow cognitive decline. Ask about daily schedules, structured programs, and opportunities for social connection. This will give you a sense of whether your loved one’s days will be filled with purpose, joy, and belonging.
- What safety measures and health supports are in place?
Safety is a top priority for individuals with dementia. Andrew Clark, professor and co-editor of the book Dementia and Place, notes “environment is really important, and it can be enabling or disabling.” Memory care environments should include secured entries and exits, accessible layouts, and monitoring systems that protect residents while promoting independence.
Equally important are health supports: Does the provider offer on-site nursing? How do they coordinate with physicians or hospitals if care needs change? The answers help you evaluate whether your loved one’s safety and health needs can be met both now and in the future.
- What are the costs, payment options, and contract terms?
Memory care is an investment, and costs vary widely. Medicare, Medicaid, and out-of-pocket care costs for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias are projected to reach $384 billion this year. Families should ask not just “how much,” but also what is included (meals, medication management, therapies, activities) and what may cost extra. Inquire about payment options, the use of long-term insurance, or financial aid. Reviewing contracts carefully helps avoid surprises and ensures you understand what flexibility exists if your loved one’s care needs evolve.
- How do you ensure a good fit between residents and caregivers?
At its heart, memory care is about relationships. Compatibility matters. The comfort a loved one feels with their caregivers can greatly affect their quality of life. Ask how providers introduce new residents, whether staff get to know personal histories and preferences, and what steps are taken if a mismatch arises. Touring the facility and seeing interactions can help you gauge the warmth, patience, and attentiveness of the care team. Tina Sadarangani, a geriatric nurse practitioner, told AARP, “Pay attention to the feeling you get when you walk into a place.”
Beyond the questions
While these questions provide a strong foundation, families should also consider:
- Experience and accreditation. Look for providers with a solid reputation, recognized accreditations, and years of specialized dementia care.
- Staff-to-resident ratios. Lower ratios often mean more personalized attention.
- Family involvement. Ask how families are included in care planning and communication.
Each of these factors plays a role in ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment.
Finding the right memory care provider is about more than a facility. You’re choosing a community where your loved one can live with dignity, safety, and joy.
At Kline Galland, we’re committed to providing exceptional memory care tailored to the individual, with programs that support both residents and their families.
If you’re exploring memory care options, we invite you to reach out and learn how we can help you choose memory care with confidence.
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Sources: Alzheimer’s Association; NIH; AARP; McKnights; NIA; Dementia UK; NYT; Environments for Aging; HFM Magazine; Ted Trout Architecture;
