Dementia Care Guide: What Chattanooga Families Should Ask Before Choosing Services

When a loved one begins showing signs of dementia, families are faced with difficult choices. In Chattanooga, there are many senior care options available—from in-home support to specialized memory care communities. But with so many services promising quality dementia care, how do you know which one is right for your family?

At Touching Hearts at Home of Chattanooga, we understand that families want compassionate, reliable care tailored to their loved one’s needs. This guide will help you understand the most important questions to ask when considering dementia care in Chattanooga, while also highlighting key local resources and support systems.

Why Choosing the Right Dementia Care Matters

Dementia is not just memory loss—it’s a progressive condition that affects thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform daily activities. Families often face challenges such as:

• Wandering and safety risks at home.
• Difficulty managing daily routines like meals, medications, and hygiene.
• Emotional strain on family caregivers.
• Behavioral changes such as agitation or confusion.

The right dementia care services can provide peace of mind, ensuring safety, dignity, and a better quality of life for both the individual and their family.

10 Key Questions Families Should Ask Before Choosing Dementia Care

When researching dementia care options, families should look beyond marketing materials and get into the details. Here are the most important questions to ask:

1. What Type of Care Do You Specialize In?

• Does the agency or facility have caregivers trained specifically in dementia care?
• Are staff familiar with techniques for handling memory loss, confusion, or aggression?

2. How Do You Ensure Safety at Home?

• Will a home safety assessment be performed to minimize risks of falls and wandering?
• Do caregivers monitor for hazards such as unsecured rugs, poor lighting, or unsafe kitchen setups?

3. What Is Your Caregiver Training Process?

• Do caregivers receive continuing education on dementia care?
• How often is training updated to reflect best practices?

4. How Do You Handle Challenging Behaviors?

• Does the care team use de-escalation strategies?
• How do they respond if a client becomes agitated or refuses care?

5. Is Care Personalized?

• Will a customized care plan be developed for your loved one’s needs?
• Does the plan cover ADLs (activities of daily living) such as bathing, dressing, and eating?

6. What Communication Can Families Expect?

• How often will the agency update you about your loved one’s condition?
• Is there a 24/7 point of contact?

7. What Are the Costs and Payment Options?

• Does the agency accept private pay, VA benefits, or long-term care insurance?
• What is the average hourly or monthly rate for dementia care in Chattanooga?

8. What Local Resources Are Connected to Your Services?

• Do you partner with local hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or support groups?
• Can you recommend local Alzheimer’s or dementia resources in Chattanooga?

9. How Do You Handle Emergencies?

• What procedures are in place if a client experiences a medical emergency?
• Are caregivers trained in CPR and first aid?

10. Do You Offer Respite Care for Families?

• Can services be scheduled for a few hours or days to give family caregivers a break?
• Is short-term care available after a hospital stay?

Types of Dementia Care Services in Chattanooga

Families have several options for dementia care depending on their loved one’s needs:

• In-Home Dementia Care – Caregivers provide support in the comfort of home, assisting with daily routines, companionship, and safety monitoring.
• Adult Day Programs – Structured daytime programs offering activities, socialization, and supervision.
• Assisted Living with Memory Care Units – Residential facilities with secure environments and dementia-trained staff.
• Respite Care – Short-term care solutions to give family caregivers relief.

Local Resources for Chattanooga Families

If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia in Hamilton County or the surrounding area, these resources may help:

• Alzheimer’s Association – Tennessee Chapter: Support groups and education for caregivers.
• Southeast Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability: Local services and case management for seniors.
• Chattanooga senior centers and faith-based organizations: Opportunities for socialization and caregiver relief.

How Touching Hearts at Home Can Help

Choosing dementia care is one of the hardest decisions families face. At Touching Hearts at Home, our mission is to provide more than just caregiving—we provide peace of mind. Here’s how we stand apart:

• Specialized dementia training for all caregivers.
• Personalized care plans developed with families.
• Flexible scheduling to meet short-term and long-term needs.
• Strong communication with regular family updates.
• Local connections with Chattanooga’s healthcare and senior services community.

Final Thoughts

Every family’s journey with dementia is unique. Asking the right questions before choosing care ensures that your loved one receives the dignity, safety, and compassion they deserve. Whether you’re just beginning to explore dementia care in Chattanooga or are ready to set up services, remember—you don’t have to navigate this alone.

At Touching Hearts at Home of Chattanooga, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

📞 Call us today at 423-591-7531 to schedule a free consultation and home safety evaluation.