When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, the family often has more questions than answers. At the top of the list is usually, “What’s the best way to support my loved one’s needs right now?” One of the options for memory care in Hillsborough Township may have been recommended as a solution. But what is memory care? And how can it help your loved one continue to enjoy a full and purposeful life? Let’s find out.
What Is Memory Care?
This type of senior living is designed just for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. In memory care, you’ll find specially-trained staff, individualized support, 24-hour supervised care, a safe, comforting environment, as well as opportunities to be active, have a purpose, and experience joy each day.
But what is memory care like? Although not every memory care community is the same, there are usually some common features that you can expect, such as:
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Onsite registered nursing team and ongoing staff training in memory care
- Medication monitoring and regular health assessments
- Support with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating
- Individualized wellness programs
- Three daily meals with personalized nutrition and dining programs
- Coordinated social and enrichment activities
- Housekeeping and linen services
- Scheduled transportation
- Secured building access and sensory alarms for prompt assistance
Memory care is typically offered in two settings: a neighborhood or unit within an assisted living community or a stand-alone community designed exclusively for those with dementia. In either case, often memory care will be on the same campus as other types of senior living, which has advantages that include the following:
Your loved one could potentially move to assisted living initially and transition into memory care later.
Couples in which one has dementia and the other does not may be able to remain together, at least on the same campus.
Download our Just the Facts Guide to Memory Care today!
Benefits of Memory Care
What is memory care? Beyond the specialized training that gives staff a deeper understanding of dementia, how to support the specific needs of residents, techniques for managing challenging behaviors, and effective communication strategies, there is so much more that’s offered. Memory care gives your loved one many benefits, such as:
Daily activities
This could include sensory stimulation, cognitive therapies, physical and occupational therapies, and exercise. Your loved one will have plenty of opportunities to interact socially as well. But it’s all within the comfort of a familiar daily structure, often with the same caregivers.
Unique therapies
Many memory care programs offer music, art, and/or pet therapy, as research has shown they can help to reduce aggression and agitation for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
Supportive dining
Your loved one will enjoy nutritious dining options that are easy to chew and may include finger foods to promote independence. However, dining assistance is also available if needed. Plus, it’s all in an intimate setting where they can feel comfortable and relaxed.
A Comforting Environment
The memory care environment is designed not only to be safe and secure but also comforting for residents. It typically features an easy-to-navigate layout as well as the use of color and lighting to create a calm, relaxed environment.
What Is Memory Care for Your Family?
Beyond the benefits to your loved one, memory care offers benefits to the family as well. First, it gives you peace of mind that your loved one will have the care and enrichment they need and the dignity, respect, and understanding they deserve. What’s more, it allows your family to spend the most quality with your loved one as their son, daughter, husband, or wife versus their caregiver.
What Is The Best Time for Memory Care?
We’ve answered, “What is memory care?” Now it’s time to determine when your loved one would benefit more from this type of care. While deciding when it’s time for memory care is a decision only your family can make, we feel it ultimately comes down to where your loved one will be able to make the most of life now and down the road. This goes beyond safety and care as it’s just as important that they have enough social stimulation and opportunities to stay active and find purpose.
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.
