Memory Care for People with Dementia or Alzheimer’s

When it becomes challenging and overwhelming to look after a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, you may want to look into memory care living. This is a form of elderly living the provides comprehensive, specialized care for individuals with memory problems.

What Makes Memory Care Distinct?

Memory care programs provide a safe, structure setting with set routines that lower stress for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The staff members help the residents with personal care tasks like bathing, dressing, taking medication, etc., just like in assisted living facilities. However, they are ideally trained to deal with the distinct issues that come up due to Alzheimer’s or dementia. They check in with the patients regularly, round the clock, and provide additional support and structure to help them go about their day.

In standard assisted living, the residents have to manage their own time. Mealtimes and menus are posted, but the staff members don’t check upon them. On the other hand, memory care staff members ensure the residents get their meals, do their daily activities, etc.

Since dementia or Alzheimer’s patients are prone to wander, memory care nursing homes have enclosed outdoor spaces, elevators that need a code, and alarmed doors to keep them on site. Some facilities even have tracking bracelets, allowing the residents to explore while allowing the staff to monitor their whereabouts.

Activities in these facilities are designed to engage patients at varying stages of their condition and boost cognitive function.

Tips to Pick a Memory Care Home

When it comes to picking a memory care facility, it’s advisable to visit each center many times, including a non-scheduled visit in the evening when there are a few staff members. During your search, you’ll want to consider the following:

1. Physical Environment & Layout

Is the facility pleasant and clean? Are the doors and rooms clearly labeled to help residents find their way around? Are there circular hallways to prevent frustration from dead ends? Do the residents seem happy?

2. Food & Activities

Does the memory care center offer activities that will keep you or your loved one engaged? For example, what strategy does the facility use to encourage the residents to take their meals? Participate in at least one activity and eat a meal to see whether the facility matches your needs.

3. The Staff

Does the facility have a nurse? What type of dementia or Alzheimer’s-specific training do the staff members get? Do not be afraid to ask how the facility manages someone who portrays aggressive behavior during your visit.

4. Continuing Care Services

Some memory care living facilities are not equipped or staffed enough to provide complex medical care. As such, it’s essential to look into the behaviors or health conditions that might require your family member to transfer to a more comprehensive level of care within the center.

Feel free to contact your Lavender Springs care facility today. Also, if you want to get our home office in Texas, you can reach us at (512) 698-7285. We would love to hear from you!