Complications associated with memory are always hard to manage or live with. Alzheimer’s as an example alters the lifestyle of older adults because it changes everything concerning their living.
It is especially difficult for caregivers who had never cared for an older adult with Alzheimer’s disease. Followings are tips to care for older adults in retirement communities in Bradenton, FL:
Increased Social Interaction
Social interaction is very important to the overall well-being of older adults. It improved the physical, emotional, and mental health of aging adults. Retirement communities offer several opportunities to participate in activities and involve themselves in groups.
Also, social outings like organized excursions and trips are also ways of ensuring involvement in these communities.
Patience
Caring for older adults in memory care requires a lot of patience. This is because older adults take longer to complete daily tasks such as bathing and eating. To avoid frustration, understand you need to be patient and let them take all the time they need.
Also, they have been used to doing these tasks without help so a sudden takeover might be embarrassing. Allow them to handle these tasks with minimal interference, although you have to ensure they are still capable of doing them safely.
Mental Engagements
As mentioned earlier, helping them with activities is good. However, allowing them to perform activities like bathing, dressing, and minimal housekeeping will improve their cognitive ability.
Other mental stimulating activities include reading and involvement in games.
Constant Visitation
Even though, older loved ones in memory care have issues remembering family members and friends. It is essential you visit them constantly to help them feel supported. Ensure you visit when they are engaged in activities. This will afford you the opportunity to participate in what interest them.
The activities should not be too long, short activities like singing, playing puzzles, and watching videos are advisable. In addition, be prepared for emergency visitation in case your loved ones feel agitated.
Memory Care
Living with Alzheimer’s means your older loved ones will often forget things. This includes medications, appointments, and other basic tasks.
Generally, the next thing to do is to take over these responsibilities to ensure your loved ones live healthily. However, this will remove their sense of independence and eventually upset them.
You don’t have to assume complete responsibility for these tasks rather work with them. Most times, let them indicate a need to be helped before you help them out.
Qualified Team Members
Team members in retirement communities are properly trained to help residents with their individual needs. Also, they are capable of handling any behavioral change associated with Alzheimer’s.
In addition, they have experience taking care of older adults with memory complications. Your loved ones have access to 24/7 personal care in a secure environment. Therefore, the best alternative for caregivers is these communities.
Conclusion
Alzheimer’s condition makes life unbearable for caregivers and older adults. The best option to help older loved ones with Alzheimer’s live comfortably is senior living. Residential communities like Discovery Village At Sarasota Bay will provide care options available for your loved ones with this condition.
