How Do You Know When It’s Time for Memory Care?
Memory care is an assisted living service that is specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of individuals with cognitive impairment. The staff is trained to assist people living with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, brain injuries, and other ailments, so they are prepared to interact in ways that provide calm support, build joy, preserve dignity, and minimize fear or anger. In a similar manner, the buildings are designed and furnished to meet the needs of this special community.
How do you know when it’s time for memory care for your loved one? It’s a question that families often struggle with. Many dementia patients resist change, and seniors have often expressed a desire to remain in their homes for as long as possible. Deciding when to make the move is tough, but it’s essential. Asking questions can help you make the call.
Can We Keep Them Safe?
Caring for someone with dementia can be an incredibly challenging task. Many are prone to wandering, and they may be unable to return to familiar surroundings safely. In their travels, they may endanger themselves and others, especially if they drive or wander into traffic. Likewise, there comes a time when unsupervised activities in the kitchen are a real threat to the senior and the household. If you worry that you cannot keep them safe at home, it may be time to consider memory care.
Can We Keep Them Healthy and Social?
There’s also the question of maintaining your loved one’s general health. Are they eating and getting enough exercise to be healthy? Are they socializing enough to slow the progress of their disease? Many seniors with memory issues begin to restrict themselves as the world becomes overwhelming and confusing. Some forget to eat, drink, or complete hygiene routines. If you’re concerned that you cannot see that your loved one’s physical and social needs are met, it may be time to consider memory care.
Can the Primary Caregiver Truly Handle This?
Caregiving is incredibly tough. In some ways, watching over a dementia patient is like watching over a young child. After all, you love them dearly, even when they are uncooperative. In other ways, it’s a much harder job. A young child will eventually grow up, and the people around you witnessing a temper tantrum can clearly see that you’re dealing with a child. With a dementia patient, the situation is likely to get worse with time, and it’s not always obvious to others why your interactions with your loved one are occasionally difficult.
Sometimes, the primary caregiver’s health begins to fail, and there’s no one else capable of taking on the job. Sometimes, the dementia patient’s health falters, and it’s too much for the caregiver to handle. Sometimes, the caregiver has simply reached their limit. Recognizing that isn’t a cop-out or failure. It’s an important step that allows you to find the healthcare that your loved one needs.
Is Their Behavior Changing in Worrisome Ways?
Are you seeing changes that worry you? Are your instincts insisting that something is wrong? Even if you can’t put your finger on why, you may want to begin researching memory care.