If your loved one is showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementias, you may be wondering if a memory care assisted living community is the right choice. When it comes to making that decision, here are some things to consider.
1. Are bad days becoming more frequent?
At first, you thought your loved one was just having a bad day. But now you’re noticing those bad days happening more often, and you’re worried. Perhaps it’s time to consider a community designed to support people with memory loss and dementia. So your loved one has help through the bad days — and can still get the most out of the good ones.
2. How much help is needed?
With memory care assisted living, it’s important that residents are able to do most activities on their own. For example, your loved one may need reminders to take medications or eat, but may not always need physical help doing those things. Your loved one’s physical needs will determine the right community to consider, so be sure to schedule an in-person visit for an assessment of his or her needs.
3. You worry about your loved one’s safety at home
As memory loss progresses, being home alone can create potentially unsafe situations. Forgetting to turn off the oven. Getting disoriented during a walk outdoors. Missing scheduled medication times. If you’re questioning your loved one’s safety at home alone, it may be time to consider a memory care assisted living community.
4. Unique needs require unique care
Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias require a unique type of care. In a memory care assisted living community, the staff is specially trained to help support your loved one. They understand the symptoms of dementia, know how to communicate with residents and respond to their behaviors, and help residents engage in meaningful activities. All in a supportive, nurturing environment.
5. The environment and activities matter
Memory care assisted living communities provide an environment designed specifically to support your loved one’s needs. Activities to engage the senses. Opportunities to interact with others. Involvement in the local community. It shouldn’t just be a place to live — it should be a place to thrive.