For Families
You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone
Choosing memory care for someone you love is one of the hardest decisions a family can face. We're here to walk alongside you — with information, compassion, and no pressure.
We Understand
This Journey Is Hard. We've Walked It Too.
Many of our team members have cared for a loved one with dementia themselves. We know the sleepless nights, the guilt, the grief, and the love that brings families to our door.
These resources are here to help you understand what memory care looks like, what questions to ask, and how to know when the time is right — on your timeline, not ours.
Knowing When
Signs It May Be Time for Memory Care
There's no single moment when memory care becomes "necessary." But there are signs that can help guide the conversation.
Safety concerns at home
Leaving the stove on, wandering, falls, or getting lost in familiar places.
Caregiver burnout
When the demands of caregiving are affecting your own health, relationships, or work.
Increased confusion
Difficulty recognizing family members, significant disorientation, or sundowning behaviors.
Personal care challenges
Resistance to bathing, dressing, or eating — or inability to manage these independently.
Social withdrawal
Loss of interest in activities they once loved, or increasing isolation and depression.
Medication management
Missing doses, double-dosing, or inability to manage a medication schedule safely.
If you're seeing several of these signs, it may be time to have a conversation. We're always available to talk — no commitment required.
The Transition
What to Expect When Moving In
The first few weeks of a move to memory care can be an adjustment — for your loved one and for you. Here's what families typically experience:
The Assessment
Our facility nurse meets with your loved one and family to understand their history, preferences, and care needs before move-in.
Move-In Day
We encourage families to bring familiar items — photos, a favorite blanket, meaningful objects — to help personalize the space.
The First Two Weeks
Some adjustment is normal. Our staff will keep you closely informed and welcome your visits during this settling-in period.
Ongoing Partnership
Regular care plan reviews, open communication, and an open-door policy keep you connected and involved every step of the way.
Be Prepared
Questions to Ask Any Memory Care Community
When touring a memory care facility, these questions can help you evaluate whether it's the right fit — and we're happy to answer all of them for Hastings Memory Care.
What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and overnight?
How is staff trained specifically for dementia care?
How do you handle behavioral changes or difficult days?
How will you communicate with our family about changes in care?
What does a typical day look like for a resident?
How are care plans created and how often are they reviewed?
What happens if my loved one's needs increase over time?
Can we visit at any time, or are there visiting hours?
Caregiver Wellbeing
Taking Care of Yourself, Too
Family caregivers often put themselves last. But your wellbeing matters — and caring for yourself makes you a better advocate for your loved one.
Allow Yourself to Grieve
The grief of watching a loved one change is real and valid. You don't have to be strong all the time — and you don't have to grieve alone.
Lean on Support Groups
Connecting with other families navigating memory care can be profoundly helpful. Ask us about local and online support resources.
Redefine Your Role
When a loved one moves to memory care, your role shifts — from hands-on caregiver to loving family member. That's a gift, not a loss.
External Resources
Trusted Organizations for Families
These national organizations offer education, support, and guidance for families affected by Alzheimer's and dementia.
Alzheimer's Association
24/7 helpline, local support groups, care planning tools, and the latest research on Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's Foundation of America
Free memory screenings, caregiver support, and educational resources for families and professionals.
Caregiver Action Network
Resources, community, and advocacy for family caregivers across all health conditions.
Family Caregiver Alliance
Fact sheets, online support groups, and a national database of caregiver services by location.
Have questions? We're here.
Whether you're just beginning to explore options or ready to schedule a tour, our team is always available to talk — with no pressure and no sales pitch.