Memory care provides a safe and supportive environment with an empathetic staff for those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s. Individuals needing memory care may be in these early, middle, or late stages.
Providing stimulating activities can help improve the quality of life for people with dementia. These may include reminiscence and socialization, sensory stimulation (like smells of spices or food), and physical activity.
Improved Memory
When individuals with dementia engage in activities tailored to their interests and level of cognition, they experience improved memory recall. This can help to delay the onset of further cognitive decline. Memory care provides a safe and comfortable environment that fosters a sense of belonging and socialization. It also offers structured activities that provide mental stimulation and various experiences that can boost cognitive function and reduce the risk of depression.
If your loved one has a hard time remembering the names of their family members or seems to forget what day it is, memory care may be the right option. Memory care providers are trained to address challenging behavior and can help your family member maintain a sense of self for as long as possible. They can also offer support when your relative’s daily hygiene needs change, or they wander. This can help to keep them safe and reduce your stress levels as a caregiver.
Enhanced Independence
Having trained dementia caregivers provide specialized care often results in better patient wellness outcomes. These professionals would be more apt to recognize changes in your loved one’s behavior and address any concerns you may have. They could also help you connect your loved one with other medical professionals for specialty services such as physical therapy and psychiatric care. As your parent’s dementia progresses, it becomes harder for them to complete daily tasks independently. However, it’s important to focus on your parent’s strengths rather than limitations. For instance, if your loved one can still wash themselves and dress, encourage them to do so even if they need assistance.
Many government and private organizations offer resources to help your elderly loved ones stay at home for as long as possible. These resources could include tools that make their daily activities less challenging and safety equipment to reduce their fear of falling.
Enhanced Socialization
Individuals with dementia often feel isolated, leading to a poorer quality of life. However, engaging them in socialization and activities that stimulate their senses can provide a feeling of inclusion that minimizes feelings of loneliness.
Moreover, memory care communities offer regular, structured socialization, giving your loved one various opportunities to interact with other residents and caregivers. These interactions are done in a safe, controlled environment so your loved one will not be frightened by new places or people. Whether your loved one chooses memory care or in-home care, it is important to continue engaging them in enjoyable activities, such as playing games and gathering photographs. This will help them relive good memories and evoke feelings of self-worth. Suppose your loved one is in the early stages of dementia. They may find comfort and satisfaction in playing cards, stacking colored rings, or engaging in a simple wooden jigsaw with a few easy-to-handle pieces.
Enhanced Safety
A specialized dementia care professional will be more likely to recognize changes in your loved one’s behavior that may indicate a health issue like a heart attack or stroke. They can then alert a medical professional before the problem escalates, improving your loved one’s overall wellness. Creating a comfortable, safe environment can also enhance the quality of life for dementia patients. Storytelling sessions, for example, can help people feel connected to others and provide emotional support, which decreases depression and anxiety. Safety is an important concern for those with dementia because wandering is common, and even simple home improvements like tacked-down carpets can prevent falls that lead to injury or death. In memory care facilities, special features like enlarged hallways, walk-in showers and accessible door handles can help reduce the risk of falling. Some communities also use a technology that tracks your loved one’s daily movements and indoor location to predict and alert caregivers of potential health risks, including elopement, falls, malnutrition or dehydration.
