Rec for the BEST & highest quality Memory Care in/around Livingston NJ

Hope65

Im so in over my head, and am feeling very lost.

My goal is to identify the top 3 memory care residences in/around the area of Livingstion, NJ.  Has anyone heard of The Winchester in Maplewood?  All feedback is warmly welcomed.

Im also looking for the top 3 agencies for 24/7 home care, as well as agencies or people who actively help guide & caregivers to navigate these big decisions.

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Thanks to all 

jfkoc

Find placement is difficult but you can start your search via telephone to narrow the field.

1. Ask about training...initial and ongoing. The answer you want is a program that you can google.

2. Have a copy of the contract sent to you

3. have a copy of the most recent state inspection sent to you

4. have a copy of the state license sent to you

Any problem getting these then you do not want to go further

Arden Courts has a good reputation so I would certainly give them  a call.

If you use a service or a person ask how they are paid. If by the facility they will not tell you about facilities they do not serve.

RobinNicole

Hi Hope65,

I found carepatrol very helpful in creating an initial list of facilities and through conversations with them narrowing that down.  (I was recommended to them through my mom’s neuropsych doctor). They arranged tours ( which reduced me getting spammed by places) and met me and went on the tours with me.  On my own I took family members with me on second rounds and they talked with my contact as well.  For me he knew the facilities and some of the insider info.   I was extremely prepared having used this forum for questions to ask, things to look for and watch out to and also incorporated check sheets I found online.

Working with someone in addition to my family research lessened my stress.  Even though my mom is happily settled in we have touched base and he has reminded me we can revisit should any needs arise 

Carepatrol is paid by the facilities.  I had already listed out all the facilities in the radius I was interested in at high level and then looked at reviews and used my network to feel them out   I also asked every one of my doctors offices about feedback and experiences ( which provided surprisingly candid feedback)

There is carepatrol in nj (just looked online)   It operates in a few states.  Hopefully others have suggestions for you.  Good luck and keep checking back. The people on here are incredibly helpful in all stages 

quartlow2

I get it! Being overwhelmed by this comes quickly!

We started by using A Place for Mom. It is a good place to start but we did find out that there are good places that are not listed on their site.

A Google search, BBB, looking for reviews of specific facilities are all helpful. Talking to friends with parents with similar needs was also helpful. We found that the private-pay facilities were the best.

The best advice I was given regarding in-home caregivers: hire an agency, rather than an independent  - reason, if the person doesn't work out, the agency can provide someone else rather than you having to go through the hiring process again.

Visit the facility, eat a meal (even if it has to be take out), notice the demeanor of the caregivers. Unhappy caregivers don't do their jobs well.

JJAz

Look for a Senior Placement Specialist that will address your particular needs.  MCF are not best selected based on how they look and the staff ratios.  Staff and management/owner longevity matter the most along with the reports issued by the state after their annual/semi-annual reviews.   Ours placement specialist made a great recommendation that I never would have considered.  The best home care agencies are ones that pay their people well and manage them properly, ensuring longevity.  If you are asking an agency for 24/7 care, they may need to recruit new staff to meet your needs.  I liked working with 2 agencies at one time so that if one couldn't meet my needs, I had a fall-back opportunity.

snowmegz

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/62036/rec-for-the-best-highest-quality-memory-care-in-around-livingston-nj

Hi Hope65, did you end up deciding on a LTC facility for your loved one?

jfkoc

Arden Courts has been mentioned in the past as being good.