When is it Time for Memory Care for Your Loved One?

Firstly, what does memory care consist of. It is a form of long-term care specifically designed to meet the needs of people living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. As mentioned in the post ‘How to Help Elderly Parents With Dementia Care?’, dementia and memory loss is quite common among elderly populations. We hope to bring light to some of the aspects of long-term Memory Care.  

Care facilities usually comprise a larger continuum of care, including assisted living and skilled nursing care. Many memory care facilities are stand-alone buildings, while others are wings or floors within assisted living or nursing homes.

Many Services are Provided By Staff and Facilities

In Memory Care facilities, also known as Alzheimer’s Care or Dementia Care Facilities, you or your loved one gets 24-hour supervision and assistance for daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. The facilities also offer nursing care, other health services, and social and recreational activities.

The staff at these organizations are specially trained to deal with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. They are also adept at providing the level of care and supervision that residents need.

When is it Time to Move to a Nearby Memory Care? 

It can certainly be challenging to know when to move a loved one into memory care because there are no hard and fast rules. You may wonder if the time is right and what signs to look for indicating it’s time for this type of facility.

It’s essential to discuss with your loved one their wishes and what they would like for their future. If they have dementia or Alzheimer’s, it’s necessary to have a plan in place.

Navigating The Moving Conversation

When speaking with someone living with Alzheimer’s or dementia be respectful and use “I” statements. For example, you might say, “I’m worried about your safety at home by yourself. It would be best if we looked into some memory care facilities.”

Be prepared for various reactions, from denial to anger to acceptance. Knowing that your loved ones are there for them and will support them through this transition is essential.

Some Signs to Consider A Move To Memory Care Include:

1. Changes in behavior: If your loved one is exhibiting changes in behavior, such as becoming more agitated, withdrawn, or aggressive, it may be time to consider memory care.
2. Problems with activities of daily living: If your loved one has difficulty with activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating, and using the restroom, memory care may be the best option.
3. Increased confusion and disorientation: Dementia Care facilities can provide the structure and support they need if their loved one becomes more confused and disoriented.
4. Safety concerns: A care facility may be the best option if you’re worried about your loved one’s safety at home. The facilities have staff on hand 24/7 to provide assistance and supervision. Deciding to move your loved one into memory care is never easy. But if you are having particular safety concerns for you or your loved one, you must have a conversation and explore your options.
5. A decline in physical health: If your loved one’s physical health declines, a facility can provide the medical assistance they need with doctors and nurses on call.
6. Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another dementia-related condition diagnosis: A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another form of memory impairment usually warrants a move.
7. Little to no social life: If your loved one is no longer socializing or participating in activities they enjoy, the community base in these centers can provide the structure and support they need to reengage with life.
8. Caregiver Stress: Caring for a loved one with dementia takes a toll on your health. If you are the only caregiver for a loved one with dementia, you may be feeling exhausted. Taking care of yourself is essential, and not trying to do everything alone. Caregiver stress is natural, and it can have a severe impact on your health. Memory care facilities can provide the support both you AND your loved one need. Memory care can provide your loved one with structure, supervision, and assistance. Use this resource to find memory care near you.  
9. Your loved one is isolated and depressed: If your loved one is isolated and depressed, memory care can provide the structure and support they need to reengage with life. Memory care facilities have activities and programs to keep residents engaged and socializing.
10. Your loved one is neglecting personal care: If your loved one is no longer taking care of their hygiene, it may be time to moving your loved one.. Memory care facilities can provide the assistance your loved one needs with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and using the restroom.
11. You notice changes in eating habits: If you see your loved one is not eating enough, it is time to consider memory care. The facilities can assist with meals and ensure residents get the nutrition they need.

The Bottom Line: Only you know what’s best for your loved one. But if you’re starting to see some of the signs, then there are great options available for your care needs. You can use this resource to search for a memory care assisted living or Alzheimer’s care centers. You can even make use of the internet by searching for memory care facilities near me. Since memory care is specifically designed to meet the needs of people with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive impairments, it might be the safest option for you or your loved one. 

By, Holly Klamer

For, Zemplee