4 Key Amenities to Look for in Memory Care Facilities

When you move your loved one into memory care, you expect their life to be enriched and fulfilling. With the right amenities, your loved one will thrive in their new community. 
Here are some of the most important amenities to watch for when touring and researching memory care facilities. 

1. Nutrition Programs

Your loved one will likely need help with meals as their memory problems progress. Nutrition is key to preventing many age-related diseases. Even if your loved one’s physical health is declining, they will still benefit from good nutrition and balanced meals.

High-quality memory care facilities provide nutrition and wellness programs to ensure that your loved one gets the nutrients they need. 

Most nutrition programs in memory care facilities include nutrition counseling, flexible meal options for residents, and residents’ classic favorite dishes. 

2. Pools for Water Fitness

A swimming pool might sound like more of a danger than an amenity, but don’t worry. In memory care facilities, trained staff closely supervise residents who participate in water fitness. 

It’s important to find a memory care community that has at least one swimming pool. Aquatic fitness and water therapy are very beneficial for aging adults. 

The water takes the pressure off of seniors’ joints so that they can still enjoy healthy movement. This becomes more important as seniors age; physical activity is a major predictor of lifespan and general health. 

3. Arts and Crafts Events

Creativity is a wonderful outlet for aging adults who struggle with memory problems. In memory care, your loved one can enjoy different arts and crafts projects with other residents. 

These classes may include painting, drawing, crocheting, knitting, and making collages. Arts and crafts sessions in memory care are wonderful opportunities for senior socialization, which has a wealth of mental health benefits. 

It’s important for your loved one to engage in enriching activities that use their natural creativity. It will help their brain stay sharper and healthier as they age. 

4. Outdoor Paths and Trails

Outdoor movement and sun exposure are both key to your loved one’s physical and mental well-being in memory care. 

Sun exposure will increase your loved one’s vitamin D levels, which boosts their mood over time. In fact, being outdoors has a mood-lifting effect on people of all ages. 

Many facilities are located near park trails, walking pathways, and tracks that seniors can enjoy during good weather. Look for outdoor fitness classes and supervised group walks and hikes at your loved one’s memory care facility. 

Choose the Best Memory Care for Your Loved One

Don’t skip amenities when researching the best memory care facilities in your area. Your loved one will thrive in memory care with access to enriching, convenient amenities.