While growing old is inevitable and has its advantages, it often comes with challenges that can impact our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Forgetfulness, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease or dementia are some of the health challenges that are associated with old age. The symptoms mentioned above, for example, include forgetting to eat or drink, difficulty remembering to take medication, or even becoming aggressive and agitated. If your loved one is having these signs, consider having them in a memory care home.
Caring for a loved one dealing with memory loss on your own can be overwhelming and distressing as the condition progresses quickly, and having the option of taking them to a memory care home can bring much relief. It is a safe and structured environment that is tailored to meet everyone’s needs on a case-by-case basis.
Here is a closer look at memory care, its benefits, who qualifies for or can benefit from it, and the services offered in a memory care facility.
What is memory care?
Memory care is long-term, specialised, and monitored care given to help individuals with memory loss disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It focuses on providing round-the-clock care and supervision to help individuals manage the impact these conditions have on their lives and ensure they get the best quality of life.
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The facilities are designed to create a supportive, safe and secure environment for people with memory issues by ensuring they keep regular routines and security measures that protect residents from wandering and self-harm.
These facilities always have well-trained professional staff available. They cater to the residents’ daily medical needs, providing skilled nursing services as well as different therapies and activities that help improve their quality of life.
Who can benefit most from a care home?
Memory care can be best suited for seniors living with diseases that result in memory impairment. If your loved one can barely take care of themselves due to memory loss conditions, such as dementia, or if your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, then it might be the best time to take them to a memory care facility. If your family member exhibits several of the following symptoms, it may be an indicator that they require memory care services.
- Wandering off on their own and becoming lost
- Forgetting close family members and friends
- Uncertainty of their surroundings (becoming disoriented)
- Poor hygiene is caused by either neglecting personal or household chores.
- Depression and anxiety
- Erratic behaviour includes agitation, irritability, and aggression.
- Hallucinations and severe confusion.
If your senior loved one is exhibiting any or all of these signs, consider placing them in a care home.
This will not only give you some peace of mind but also assurance, knowing that your loved one is safe and well cared for.
What are the Benefits of memory care?
Numerous benefits come with having your loved one stay in a memory care home despite their deteriorating health; while deciding to move them to a care home can be tough, knowing that they are in a safe environment and getting the best care can be so relieving. Some of these benefits include:
- Safe and secure environment: These facilities are well-equipped and have secure entrances to prevent wandering, a common sign of dementia. Alarm systems, doorbells, locked exterior doors, and circular hallways are also among the safety measures implemented. These physical settings enhance cognitive functioning and can help prevent confusion.
- Personalised care plans: These are customised and tailored to each individual’s needs. They include medical care and assistance with day-to-day activities, such as bathing, dressing, and managing diet. The plans are flexible and can be reviewed at any time to cater to the residents’ needs.
- 24-hour clock supervision and specialised medical care: The staff in care homes are highly trained professionals who understand and are ready to handle individuals with challenges that come with Alzheimer’s and dementia. They are equipped to quickly identify and recognise specific changes in behaviour in residents that can be aggressive and life-threatening to themselves, providing them with the best care needed. They also administer medication and ensure it is taken on time.
- Socialisation opportunities —including social connections and engaging in group activities — not only boost cognitive function but also improve emotional well-being. Activities such as music therapy, art therapy, and occupational therapy are some of the supportive therapies for dementia that aim to provide comfort and stimulation. These opportunities also foster meaningful relationships between individuals in memory care homes, as well as between them and their caregivers.
- Personalised Meal Plans: Personalised meal plans ensure that seniors in memory care homes receive meals packed with essential nutrients for their bodies. These meal plans are designed to support good memory and promote overall brain health.
Any illness can affect a person’s eating habits, so having the option for personalised meals is essential. It allows residents to have the freedom to access and eat what they love, prepared in the healthiest way possible.
Is Memory Care Right For My Loved One?
Recognising the need for memory care is the key to your loved one’s well-being; while you can still take care of them in the initial stages of being diagnosed, with time, it can take a significant toll on you and your loved one. Their safety, ability to take care of themselves, especially their personal care tasks, and deteriorating well-being are just a few factors to consider if choosing to move them to a memory care home.
Summary
Memory care homes offer 24/7 care and support services, along with a range of amenities and security measures, to ensure your loved one’s safety. Ultimately, before considering a memory care home for your loved one, be keen to check one that best suits their needs and well-being. With memory care homes, there is added peace of mind and support in knowing that your loved one is well cared for.