When a family member is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it can be heart-wrenching for everyone involved. However, with knowledge and support, you and yours will have the tools needed to make the best decisions for what comes next.
When is it time to consider memory care?
Although home care for elderly in their own homes is possible for some diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease during the early stages, a time may come when additional support is needed. Perhaps your loved one is no longer safe in his current environment or perhaps you’ve noticed a decline in her health. Maybe the elderly assistance needed has begun to surpass your physical abilities or you’ve found yourself buckling under the stress and workload of 24 hour elderly care. Whatever the case, you do not have to go on this journey alone.
What is memory care?
This type of elderly assistance is designed to address the special needs of individuals who have a diagnosis of dementia, Alzheimer disease or related memory loss. This specific seniors assistance can be found in free-standing communities as well as special areas within larger elder communities. What’s important is that the health care plan and living environment are designed specifically for the unique needs of those with a dementia-related illness.
What does memory care provide?
Memory care provides a place for elders to stay safe and thrive while facing the specific challenges associated with dementia. Many memory care facilities provide treatment plans that include low personnel-to-resident ratios, secure environments that allow exploration without risk of getting lost, daily activities specifically designed for those with memory loss, self-reliance with support when needed, healthy routines and so much more.
What befits do families see in their loved ones in memory care?
Some of the benefits families have seen when finding the ideal environment for their elders include fewer falls, injuries and emergency room visits, as well as a rise in mental functioning, nutrition, sociability and independence. Many also experience a reduction in medications and associated side effects. With 24 hour elderly care by specially trained staff, healthy routines and secure surroundings, memory care residents are able to live their best lives and flourish. And, as family members release their roles of active health care providers, they’re free to merely be the daughters, sons, grandchildren or siblings they once were, thereby getting to simply enjoy spending time with their loved ones again.
What should I look for?
When seeking the ideal living situation for your elder, look for those things you and your family value most. This may include a rich art and music therapy program, which has been shown to decrease the aggression that often accompanies dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. You may desire rich social engagement for your loved one, which has been linked to slowing the progression of the disease or condition. Perhaps the integration of your beloved parent or grandparent’s daily preferences or life stories into their individualized treatment plan is a priority. Whether it’s clear communication, being a partner in your elder’s care plan or something else entirely, knowing what’s important to you and your family provides the starting point in finding the ideal solution.
Where do I go from here?
If you’d like to know more about the local memory care and dementia residential homes options available, please contact us free of charge. You have our word that we will only steer you to communities in which we believe you and your loved one would feel comfortable. Together, we will find a community for your loved one to thrive.