Why And What to Look for in a Memory Care Community
Before visiting about memory care options, a quick recap on dementia, memory loss and causes, such as Alzheimer’s…
What Is Dementia?
Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that severely impair daily living. These include severe memory loss, unclear thinking and emotional confusion, all of which limit and challenge social abilities. It is not caused by a specific disease, but it can be caused by a variety of them. Further, memory loss is a common symptom of dementia, but it can be caused by a variety of factors. As such, memory loss alone does not indicate dementia, though it is frequently one of the first symptoms of the condition. Although Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of progressive dementia in older adults, there are several other causes.
Why Is It Worrisome?
The majority of cognitive impairments, such as memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease are progressive. Over time, cognition will almost certainly deteriorate, and likely necessitate long-term care. While dementia care seems to be, and can be, a depressing condition, your loved one will still have many happy moments. Remember to celebrate these!
Dementia and other cognitive impairments, such as memory loss, can be slowed or paused for short periods of time. These treatment conditions are dependent on the appropriate healthcare scenario, which is usually a memory care facility. There are many types of memory care centers and communities, offering a variety of environments, amenities and care options.
What To Look For In A Memory Care Community
Caring for an older adult who has memory loss differs from other types of senior care. Every moment of the day will require care, and needs will progress. You should ask questions to ensure that you understand the philosophy of care and the techniques that team members are trained on.
Ask The Right Questions
Is the community, for example, an Authorized Validation Organization?
Validation is a proven method for motivating Dallas area seniors with cognitive decline. This method of care encourages them to communicate more, while also relieving stress and increasing dignity and happiness. What method does the community use to train their memory care team if the Validation method is not used?
If your elderly loved one has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of progressive dementia, you must be confident that they will receive expert care. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, pay them a visit at various times of day. This will give you a general sense of the level of care during different shifts.
When you visit, make an effort to speak with residents and their families, as well as staff. Consume meals at the facility to get a sense of the food quality, cleanliness and level of care. You must determine the types of health professionals who are available on a daily basis. Is there enough supervised outdoor activity? Getting enough fresh air is important. These are some of the questions you need to answer about the facility.
Bottom Line
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are not the same, yet dementia is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s, and both are progressive. And, they are likely to worsen in effects over time. However, that doesn’t mean that you cannot slow down the rate, or even pause the progress of these conditions with diligent care and treatment. To learn more, a nearby assisted living facility with memory care, memory-care physician or rehabilitation center are good places to start as a way to learn about and select a local memory care community.