Whether you’re looking now, or are planning for the future, there comes a time in many people’s lives where they have to make the difficult decision of putting their loved one into a memory care facility. You may be asking, what is memory care? Memory care is specialized care for those who are living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. These types of communities offer enhanced safety and security features, round the clock care, activities that work on cognitive abilities and social opportunities among other memory care residents.
Regardless of if your loved one had been living on their own, with a spouse, or with you, taking care of a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be difficult, and sometimes they need more help than you are able to provide. The thought of moving your loved one into the care of someone else can be nerve-wracking, but often times it’s the best decision for everyone involved. Whether you’re just starting your search, or have been looking into facilities for some time, here are a few things you can expect at a memory care facility that will help put your mind at ease.
Your loved one will receive person-centered care. Person-centered care is exactly what it sounds like, care that is catered to each individual person. Especially for memory care residents, having a program that fits their exact needs is very important. This type of care does not use a cookie cutter approach, rather, the staff takes the time to learn what works best for each person and builds their days around what they know will yield the best results.
Quality of life won’t be sacrificed. Just because your loved one experiences memory loss does not mean their quality of life has to suffer. In a memory care facility, your loved one will experience a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a private or semi-private suite, plenty of natural light, a craft room, beauty shop, and private dining area that can be used when friends or family members come to visit. In addition, if residents want to explore the campus, visit the pool or need to take a trip to the bank, personal assistance will be provided to them in order to make sure they remain safe while still encouraging their independence.
They will be in a safe setting. In order to keep residents protected, many exterior doors in these types of communities are kept locked so that anyone who enters or exits the building is able to be monitored. Common areas like kitchens and a garden area are made specifically for the memory care residents so that they are able to enjoy cooking or outdoor time within a safe area.
Only the best care is offered. When your loved one is in a memory care facility, you can have peace of mind knowing they are receiving round the clock care. Only the best of the best are hired to work in the memory care unit, and staff members are kept up to date on Alzheimer’s and dementia care procedures. Therapy services such as PT, OT and Speech are offered, a physician or nurse practitioner is in rotation 5 days a week, in addition to having a 24-hour overnight wake staff.
Taking the step of moving your loved one into memory care is not easy, but it may end up being the best decision you can make for them. These types of facilities are structured to offer your loved one the very best care and the very best life. They will be offered care and services that fit their needs help them to live a full and enjoyable life that you both will feel good about.
