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Memory Care Planning Checklist
Memory care planning involves safety, routines, legal preparation, and understanding care options. Use this checklist to organize what you know and what still needs to be addressed.
Safety concerns
- Is wandering or elopement a current or emerging risk?
- Are doors and exits secured appropriately?
- Is overnight supervision needed or available?
- Are there stove or appliance safety concerns?
- Is driving still safe? Has a physician been consulted?
Care and routines
- What routines reduce confusion or distress?
- What activities are calming or meaningful?
- Are sundowning symptoms (evening confusion) present?
- Who provides care currently, and what are the gaps?
- Is caregiver burnout a concern?
Memory care options
- Has a physician provided a diagnosis or evaluation?
- Is memory care available within an assisted living community?
- What is the memory care staff-to-resident ratio?
- How is dementia-specific programming designed?
- What is the memory care monthly cost difference vs. assisted living?
Legal and financial preparation
- Is a durable power of attorney in place?
- Is a healthcare proxy or advance directive in place?
- Have financial accounts been reviewed for safety?
- Has an elder law attorney been consulted?
This checklist is an educational planning tool. It is not a substitute for medical, legal, or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals for decisions about care, safety, medications, or finances.
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