Are you starting to notice your loved ones showing signs of dementia? If so, it may be time to consider moving them from Assisted Living to Memory Care. Every scenario differs, and it will be a difficult decision to make. It is recommended that you speak with your family, friends, and doctor to make sure that moving your loved one to Memory Care is the right decision to make. Read on to learn more about the difference between Assisted Living and Memory Care, and what factors to take into account before making your decision.
What is Memory Care?
Memory Care provides your loved ones with an environment specially designed for seniors with cognitive issues that worsen over time. Your loved ones receive full-time care from team members who are trained in helping residents with dementia. The structured environment as well as around-the-clock medical attention ensures the safety and security of residents.
As residents could potentially show symptoms of cognitive dysfunction such as confusion and forgetfulness, the services provided in Memory Care are more extensive and specialized to ensure that residents are well taken care of. Such services include:
- Management of medication
- Assistance with feeding
- 24-hour care
- Accessible transportation
- Specialized apartments designed for those with cognitive issues
- Regular health evaluations
- Support groups
Signs That It Might Be Time to Move to Memory Care
When considering whether it’s time to transition to Memory Care, it is advised to take into account how independent your loved ones are, and how severe their dementia is. If they already reside in an Assisted Living Community, you can enquire with the team members there if they’ve recently taken note of any of the following signs:
- Requiring significant assistance with daily living activities
- An inability to maintain clean or adequate living conditions
- Getting easily overwhelmed by their surrounding environment
- Frequently getting lost
- Struggling with decision-making and critical thinking
- Often forgetting names, dates, or other common information
- Sudden physical changes from over-eating or forgetting to eat
- Frequently feeling lonely or isolated
- Major mood swings or signs of depression
- Struggling with socialization and forming relationships with others
Take note that this list is non-exhaustive. If you can, you should consult with your loved one’s doctor for advice before making a final decision.
This list is non-exhaustive, and, if you can, you should speak with your loved one’s doctor to help make this emotional decision.
How to Ease the Move to Memory Care
If your loved one struggles with memory loss, packing and unpacking pictures or knick-knacks could be confusing for them. While they’re resting or having a meal, you can help them move their personal belongings to their new space. This will ease the transition and bring familiarity.
After your loved one has fully moved into Memory Care, you can encourage them to check out the community activities that the facility offers. By engaging more with the community, your loved one can feel a sense of belonging and have a smoother transition.
Transitioning to memory care can be a momentous change for you and your loved one. Ultimately, Memory Care can provide your loved ones with the care, comfort, and safety they deserve. Contact our team to discuss the right senior living options for your loved one today.
