Memory care offers specialized care for seniors with neurodegenerative conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's.
While family members often try to care for loved ones with dementia, there are certain situations when individuals may enjoy a better quality of living in a memory care community. These communities feature staff members who are trained to work with residents who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The following are a few of the signs memory care may be right for your loved one.
1. Your Loved One’s Safety is at Risk
Many individuals with dementia experience disorientation and confusion, which can lead to falls, wandering, car accidents, and other scary situations. Someone who has dementia may forget the rules of the road when driving, or they may wander away from home and not remember how to get back.
When disorientation and confusion begin to put a loved one’s safety at risk, it’s a sign memory care may be a safer option for their needs. Memory care communities are equipped with staff and facility security measures to ensure residents stay on the property. Many also feature unique interior designs to help community members navigate the grounds and find their way back to their rooms.
2. Sudden Changes in Behavior
People who have dementia often display sudden changes in their behavior. An outgoing individual may become withdrawn. A senior who’s always been very independent may suddenly become apprehensive about getting behind the wheel. A loved one who’s always been meticulous about good hygiene may forget to shower or care for their hair. These are signs they’re having difficulty caring for themselves, which means it’s likely time to consider a memory care facility.
A memory care facility has trained staff and nurses to help residents with everyday care tasks, like bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. They offer activities to keep community members engaged with the world around them and offer safe transportation for outings. Staff also should be trained specifically in assisting those with dementia and have communication strategies that minimize frustration.
3. Caregiver Has Health Problems or Passes Away
Relatives often care for loved ones who have dementia, and if they have health problems or a caregiver passes away, then it may be the right time for memory care. Caregiving for a senior loved one is rewarding, but it can be stressful, time-consuming, and ultimately cause more harm than good.
If the primary caregiver for your loved one can no longer support them, or they pass away, moving your loved one to a memory care community ensures they receive the best care and supervision. It's likely the primary caregiver took on the responsibility because their lifestyle allowed for it when others in the family could not, so it may be difficult to find someone else in the family with the capacity to help. A memory care community offers care, activities, and critical socialization opportunities with peers that a familial caregiver or home care just can't match.
4. Physical Decline
One of the first signs that someone has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia is physical changes. If a loved one becomes frail or thin, they may be forgetting to take medicines, shop for groceries, or make meals. Along with forgetting to take medications, individuals who have dementia may also forget if they took medicine and take a second dose. Any sign of physical decline should make family members begin considering if it’s time to move their loved one to a memory care community.
Especially when it comes to taking medications as prescribed, a memory care community is a great place for seniors who struggle with activities of daily living. Staff will help them manage these essential tasks with dignity and respect. They'll also offer exercise activities that help seniors stay fit.
5. Incontinence or Toileting Difficulties
For many caregivers, helping a loved one with incontinence and toileting can become overwhelming. Incontinence becomes particularly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. This is often a point when caregivers begin looking for quality memory care.