Choosing a Memory Care Facility in Colorado: 10 Essential Tips
When someone you love is living with dementia, every decision feels heavy—especially the decision to choose a memory care community. Are you doing the right thing? How do you know which place will truly care for them, not just check boxes? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.
We meet families every day in this exact moment—and we’re here to help.
You’re likely here because you’re trying to make a good decision for someone you love. Maybe it’s your mom who’s starting to wander. Or your dad who’s forgetting meals. Maybe you live two hours away and can’t be there every day. We understand the stress, the guilt, the urgency.
And we want to reassure you: You can do this. You may just need the right guidance.
At Harmony Senior Referrals, we help families across Colorado’s Front Range—places like Boulder, Longmont, and Westminster—navigate the confusing world of senior care. We’ve walked this path, and we’ll walk it with you.
Let’s start with 10 tips to help you choose the right memory care community—and a checklist of questions to take on your tours.
1. Understand Your Loved One’s Needs
Every person with dementia is different. Some need help dressing and bathing. Others struggle with wandering or aggression. Many just need more structure and supervision.
Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Does your loved one need help with daily tasks (dressing, eating, bathing)?
- Do they wander or get lost easily?
- Are there behaviors like agitation or confusion?
- Do they need 24/7 supervision or medical care?
💡 If your loved one has serious medical needs, a nursing home might be more appropriate than memory care. We can help you determine the difference.
2. Know What Matters Most to Them
Memory care communities aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some offer shared rooms. Others focus on quiet routines or social engagement.
Ask communities:
- Can my parent help shape their daily routine?
- Are meals flexible? Can they dine privately?
- Are there personalized activities?
- Are escorts available for meals and activities?
3. Learn How Staff Are Trained
Not all caregivers are trained in dementia care. And even among those who are, approaches vary.
Look for communities where caregivers:
- Understand behavioral responses as communication, not problems
- Take time to learn each resident’s story
- Stay with residents consistently (rather than rotating)
Questions to ask:
- How is dementia training different from assisted living training?
- Do all staff (even housekeeping) get dementia training?
- Are staff certified or accredited in memory care?
4. Prioritize Safety
Safety features should go beyond locked doors. Look for:
- Motion-sensor technology
- Enclosed courtyards
- Grab bars, non-slip floors, and wide hallways
- Emergency alert systems in every room
Questions to ask:
- What’s your staff-to-resident ratio?
- Is a nurse available 24/7?
- How do you prevent wandering?
5. Ask About Personalized Care Plans
A great memory care facility will create a personalized plan that’s regularly reviewed and updated.
Ask:
- How often are care plans updated?
- Who is involved in creating the care plan?
- Can I see a sample plan?
6. Explore Therapies That Support Cognitive Health
From music therapy to aromatherapy, memory care communities offer different therapies to help residents feel calm, connected, and engaged.
Look for:
- Art or music therapy
- Light therapy for sundowning
- Occupational therapy for life skills
- Gardens or sensory rooms
Ask:
- What therapies are offered?
- How are they personalized to each resident?
7. Make Sure Activities Match Their Interests
A schedule of activities is great—but are they meaningful?
Ask:
- Are there hobbies that match my loved one’s past interests?
- Is there quiet space for someone who prefers solitude?
- Are outings offered?
Look for:
- Real-life engagement spaces (gardens, kitchens, clerical areas)
- Opportunities to build routine and purpose
8. Be Clear About Costs
In Colorado, the average cost of memory care is over $6,000/month. But what’s included can vary widely.
Ask:
- Is pricing all-inclusive or a la carte?
- Are hygiene products, outings, or therapies extra?
- What happens if care needs increase?
- Do you offer any move-in specials?
9. Trust Your Gut
You’ll know when a place feels right. Look around during your visit:
- Are residents engaged?
- Are staff warm, patient, and attentive?
- Would you feel safe having your parent live there?
10. Talk to Other Families
Sometimes the best insight comes from those who’ve walked this road before. Ask the community to connect you with families who currently have a loved one there. They can offer honest feedback about the staff, the routines, and how the community has responded to their evolving needs.
Questions to ask other families:
- What made you choose this community?
- How has their communication been?
- Would you make the same decision again?
Hearing real stories brings peace of mind—and may reveal things you hadn’t considered.
Want some help? Here’s your next steps…
- Speak with a local senior care advisor – We’ll listen, ask the right questions, and truly understand your loved one’s needs.
- Get personalized recommendations – We’ll handpick options and tour communities with you, or on your behalf.
- Choose with confidence – You’ll feel peace of mind knowing you made the right choice.
👉 Speak with a Local Senior Living Expert Today
FAQs
How much does memory care cost in Arvada, CO?
In Arvada, the average monthly cost of memory care is around $6,000–$7,500, depending on care level and amenities.
What’s the difference between memory care and assisted living?
Memory care offers more structure, safety features, and staff training specifically for dementia care. Assisted living supports general daily needs but may not be equipped for advanced memory conditions.
How do I know if my parent needs memory care?
Signs include wandering, agitation, aggression, confusion, or a decline in managing daily activities. A medical evaluation and care advisor can help determine next steps.
Can I tour a memory care facility before deciding?
Absolutely. In fact, we encourage it. We’ll even go with you—or tour on your behalf if you live out of town.
Does Medicare cover memory care?
Medicare generally does not cover long-term memory care. However, it may cover certain medical services. Long-term care insurance, VA benefits, or Medicaid may offer help.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
With Harmony Senior Referrals, you’ll never feel like just another family in a database. You’ll get personalized support from someone who truly cares—and who knows Colorado’s communities inside and out.
Because your parent deserves a safe, supportive home—and you deserve peace of mind.