What is a Memory Care Facility?
A memory care facility is a kind of long-term care that provides care and services to individuals with dementia or other cognitive impairments. Memory care facilities are sometimes called dementia care homes, Alzheimer's, or nursing homes.
How do we discuss a move with someone living with Alzheimer's or dementia?
The decision to move a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia into a memory care facility is not an easy one. There are many factors to consider, and the conversation can be emotionally charged.
Who will provide care?
The best memory care facilities will be staffed with trained professionals caring for individuals with dementia. The staff comprises nurses, social workers, and certified dementia care specialists.
What environment is best for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia?
The physical environment of a memory care facility is designed to meet the needs of individuals with dementia. The living quarters are often small, private rooms that are easy to navigate. There are common areas for socializing and recreation and outdoor spaces.
What type of care will provide in a memory care facility?
Memory care facilities will provide 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Staff members are also trained. To provide emotional support and engage in activities that reduce anxiety and agitation.
What are the costs of memory care?
Memory care communities can be expensive, and the cost will vary depending on the location, type of facility, and level of care required. It is essential to research different options and compare prices before making a decision.
Making the decision
This type of decision to move a loved one into a memory care facility is complicated. It is necessary to consider all the factors involved and discuss the options with other family members. Once a decision is made, visiting the facility and meeting the staff is essential. And get a tour of the facility to ensure it is the right fit for your loved one.
Look at the signs it's time for memory care
- Their Hygiene Habits or Personal Care Is Slipping: If you notice that your loved one is not bathing, shaving, or brushing their hair as often as they used to, it may be a sign that they can no longer care for themselves.
- Mood Swings and Personality Changes: If you notice your loved one becoming more agitated, withdrawn, or exhibiting other changes in mood or personality, it may be a sign that they are struggling to cope with their dementia.
- They Are Wandering or Getting Lost: If your loved one is wandering off and getting lost, it is a dangerous sign. Dementia can cause people to become confused and disoriented, making them more likely to wander away from home.
- Housework and Finances Are Falling Behind: If you notice that your loved one is no longer able to keep up with their usual housework or budgeting, it may be a sign which requires help with activities of daily living.
- They're Growing Isolated: If your loved one is withdrawing from social activities, this is the reason that your loved one is struggling to cope with their dementia.
- You're Afraid for Their Safety: If you are worried about your loved one's safety, it is time to seek help. Dementia can cause people to forget to eat or take their medications, leading to serious health problems.
If you observe these symptoms in your loved one, it may be time to consider moving to memory care. - Changes in Behavior: If your loved one is exhibiting changes in behavior, such as aggression or delusions, it may be a sign that they need more help than you can provide.
- They're Struggling to Communicate: If your loved one is having difficulty communicating, it may be a sign that their dementia is progressing.
- Disorientation and Confusion: If your loved one is becoming disoriented or confused, it is a sign that their dementia is progressing.
- Difficulty with Activities of Daily Living: If your loved one has difficulty with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, or eating, it may be time to consider memory care.
- Unsafe at Home: If you feel your loved one is no longer safe at home, it is time to consider memory care. Dementia can cause people to become confused and disoriented, making them more likely to wander off or have accidents.
- You Feel That It's Time: Ultimately, if you feel that it is time for your loved one to move to a memory care facility, it is probably the right decision.
Deciding the best time for assisted living or memory care and moving a loved one into a memory care facility is challenging. It is essential to check all the factors involved and discuss the options with other family members. Once a decision is made, visiting the facility and meeting the staff is essential. And get a tour of the facility to ensure it is the right fit for your loved one.
Compare memory care facilities.
When considering a memory care facility, there are several factors to compare. These include:
- Location: It is essential to consider the location of the facility. It should be close enough to family and friends so that they can visit frequently. Ask yourself: are there memory care facilities near me that I can take advantage of, or do I need to expand my search to other parts of the state?
- Cost: The cost of the facility will vary depending on the services offered and the location. It is essential to consider the cost of living in the area and whether the facility offers financial assistance.
- Services: The services offered by the facility are an essential factor to consider. Does the facility offer the level of care your loved one needs? Are there activities and programs available?
- Staff: The staff at the facility should be caring and qualified. It is essential to meet with the team and get a tour of the facility before deciding.
- Facility: The facility should be clean and well-maintained. It is designed for the safety of the residents.
The Bottom Line:
There is no answer to this question - when is the best time for memory care? Each situation is unique and must make the decision based on the individual needs of the person with dementia. If you notice these symptoms that your loved one is struggling to live independently, this is the time to consider a memory care facility. Comparing facilities and meeting with the staff is essential to ensure that the facility is the right fit for your loved one.
