When a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, it’s natural to wonder how long they’ll be able to remain at home. Although each person’s journey with dementia is unique, Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease. In the early stages, most can remain largely independent. However, over time your loved one will likely need more support than can be provided at home. These signs can help you answer the question: “When is it time for memory care?”
When Is It Time for Memory Care?
If Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia has started to affect your loved one’s ability to live independently and safely, maintain a social life, or care for themselves, it may be time to consider one of the options for memory care in Somerset County. Specific signs that more support may be needed include the following:
Safety Concerns
- Does your loved one confuse day and night (known as sundowning)?
- Do they forget to turn off burners when cooking or misuse electrical appliances?
- Have they set the thermostat too hot or cold?
- Does your loved one frequently get lost when leaving the house?
- Do they often lock the keys in the car and/or the house? Or lose their keys?
- Have they started wandering?
- Are they exhibiting any other disturbing or dangerous behaviors to themselves or others?
Health Concerns
- Is your loved one starting to become more agitated and anxious?
- Are they having problems with incontinence?
- Have you noticed sudden weight loss or gain in your loved one?
- Do they have decreased mobility?
- Do they often forget to bathe?
- Are they making an increasing number of medication errors?
Emotional Wellbeing Concerns
- Does your loved one seem depressed?
- Do they have regular opportunities for social stimulation?
- Do they have access to activities that can help strengthen cognitive functioning?
- Do caregivers and/or loved ones have the training to appropriately manage agitation and other common behaviors in those with Alzheimer’s disease?
Download our Just the Facts Guide to Memory Care today!
What To Expect in Memory Care in Somerset County
Memory care is a type of senior living designed just for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. In memory care, you’ll find specially-trained staff, individualized support, and 24-hour supervised care. Residents also enjoy a safe, comforting environment as well as opportunities to be active, have a purpose, and experience joy each day.
When it’s time for memory care, you can expect features such as:
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Onsite registered nursing team and ongoing staff training
- Medication monitoring and regular health assessments
- Support with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating
- A familiar daily structure, often with the same caregivers
- Individualized wellness programs
- Three daily meals with personalized nutrition and delicious yet nutritious options with dining assistance if needed
- Coordinated social, fitness, and enrichment activities tailored to each resident’s abilities
- Housekeeping and linen services
- Scheduled transportation
- Secured building access and sensory alarms for prompt assistance
Memory care is typically offered in a neighborhood or unit within an assisted living community or a stand-alone community designed exclusively for those with dementia. What’s more, memory care is often on the same campus as other types of senior living. If you’re unsure if it’s time for memory care but believe additional help is needed for your loved one, this can be an advantage because:
- Your loved one could potentially move to assisted living initially and transition into memory care later.
- Your parents may be able to remain together if one has dementia and the other does not, at least on the same campus.
Benefits for the Family When It’s Time for Memory Care
Memory care gives your loved one a number of benefits. But when it’s time for memory care, the family also benefits as well. It gives your family peace of mind that your loved one is receiving the care and enrichment they need in addition to the dignity, respect, and understanding they deserve. Plus, it allows your family to spend the most quality with your loved one as their son, daughter, husband, or wife versus their caregiver.
For more information on enriching the lives of memory care residents, download our Just the Facts Guide to Memory Care today! Or contact us today to schedule a tour.
