It is estimated that over six million Americans over the age of 65 are living with alzheimer’s or dementia, which can take a heavy toll on their families. However, below are some ways that memory care can improve their quality of life.
Around the Clock Personalized Support
Once your loved one becomes a member of a memory care community, they’ll have access to around the clock support. This care is provided by nurses who are trained to work with those that have dementia and they will establish a treatment plan which is completely personalized.
Activities Which Promote Cognitive Development
Memory care promotes activities which are designed to improve one’s cognitive capacity, such as brain games, arts and crafts, music and dancing. Residents will be given choices based on hobbies which interest them. Research has shown that continual mental stimulation is the key to delaying the progression of memory disorders.
Safe and Secure Environment
A common problem that some families have encountered with loved ones suffering from dementia is wandering off. Studies show that 3 in 5 people with the disease will do this, which can be dangerous as they might hurt themselves. It is believed that the behavior occurs when someone with dementia is trying to locate something, and it might also result from fear, anxiety or discomfort.
A memory care community is designed to ensure that residents never wander off. All the entrances are locked and secured and the public areas are also monitored. This prevents those with dementia from trying to leave the area which can lead to accidents and other injuries. The buildings also have a distinct layout, emphasizing soothing colors with floor plans that are simple to navigate. Quality communities are structured to alleviate stress in residents by giving them a sense of creativity and freedom.
Quality Nutrition
Poor nutrition has been linked to a number of health issues in aging adults, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and stroke. While eating nutrient rich foods might not cure dementia directly, it can delay its progression and symptoms. Furthermore, individuals with dementia have been known to manifest swallowing difficulties which increase the chances of choking. Poor vision might also make it harder for those suffering from dementia to distinguish between the different foods on plates.
How Memory Care Functions
Memory care is a form of extended treatment which is designed for those that have Alzheimer’s or dementia. It usually involves 24 hour supervision in an environment where your loved one would be tended to by nurses who would assist them with activities such as grooming, bathing and eating. However, the best memory care environments are those where residents are encouraged to become as independent as possible. There are a number of signs that your loved one should be referred to such a community, which includes:
- Difficulty walking or balancing themselves
- Weight loss which is unintended
- Easily lost or disoriented even in familiar settings.
- Poor judgment involving finances
If you notice any of the above, or your aging family member is no longer able to engage in normal home activities, this is a sign that referring them to a memory care community is probably in their best interests and yours.
