Assisted Living and Memory Care
Written by:
Jeffrey Grossman
Published:
December 20, 2019
When it comes time to make living arrangements for an aging loved one in need of support, explore the benefits of memory care assisted living.
Memory Care Living
Nearly 50 million Americans struggle with dementia and over 10 million new cases are reported each year. Is an older adult in your life currently facing a form of dementia?As difficult as the disease is on the individual, it can be equally as taxing on those around them. In many cases, dementia alters the personality of the loved one you once knew. They often experience mood swings, forget who friends and family are, and in some cases, become depressed. Are you struggling to find the best care for your loved one? Memory care assisted living programs provide specialized, compassionate care for the aging adult in your life.Continue reading to learn more about this beneficial resource.
What is Memory Care Assisted Living?
There are two forms of memory care assisted living – one involves your loved one entering an assisted living facility, while the other provides services in the comfort of their own home. Whenever possible, it's recommended that you keep your loved one at home.This is where they feel safe and comfortable. It's also familiar to them, which plays a key role in their care and progress. The more familiar dementia patients are with their surroundings, the less agitated they become.Memory care is focused on meeting the specific needs of someone battling dementia. While all programs are unique to the individual, some common services include:
Meal prep
Medication administration
Socialization
Personal hygiene support
Housekeeping
Basic care needs
Some facilities and services also offer outings and group activities to help promote cognitive function. These include fitness and wellness activities and different forms of therapy.The primary focus of memory care assisted living at home is to keep your loved one calm, comfortable, and happy. Dementia patients don't respond well to stress, so the calmer and more at peace they are, the better.
Signs Your Loved One Would Benefit from Memory Care Assisted Living
Forgetfulness is all a part of aging. But how can you tell the difference between common memory loss and onset dementia?Let's explore some early warning signs of this debilitating disease.
Memory loss
Difficulty speaking or writing
Confusion over time and place
Difficulty performing daily tasks
Trouble solving common problems
Misplacing items
Poor judgment
Inability to plan or make decisions
Difficulty understanding visual information
Unexplained mood swings
If your loved one is exhibiting any, or all, of these symptoms, it may be a sign of early-onset dementia.Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and requires personalized care. Unfortunately, while early detection is important, there's no cure for Alzheimer's and no way to slow the process down.Instead, you can offer your loved one the best care possible as you both navigate this difficult disease. Some relatives of dementia patients choose to care for their loved ones themselves.As the disease progresses, this may become more difficult. Hiring in-house memory care assisted living services will offer you and the patient the support and resources you need. Trained professionals are skilled in accommodating the specific needs and demands of dementia patients.If your loved one's condition seems to worsen, they become more withdrawn or depressed, or become combative or even violent, it's probably time to hire professional assistance.
What to Expect From In-Home Care
The time has come and you've decided to hire an in-home caregiver or assisted living service for your aging loved one. This can be a difficult decision to make. After all, you're welcoming someone new into your loved one's home and entrusting them with their care.To help ease your mind and support your decision, here are a few things you and your aging loved one can expect from memory care services in your home.
More Individualized Care
One of the biggest benefits of hiring an in-home professional for your loved one is the unique, individualized care they'll receive. While assisted living facilities try to provide compassionate care, they can't offer consistent one-on-one interactions.Your loved one will receive the undivided time and attention of the caregiver. Not only does this make them feel special but the in-home professional gets to know your loved one on a more personal level.The caregiver will know first-hand, and immediately, if your loved one is exhibiting unusual behavior. This means early detection for any additional medical issues. With only one patient to care for, your aging adult receives the best possible care.
A Personal Connection
Providing care for a loved one with dementia goes far beyond their physical health. In fact, fostering their emotional well-being, keeping them calm, and engaging them cognitively is of utmost importance.In-home caregivers become invested in their patients. Your loved one will have someone by their side each day to lend both physical and emotional support.Many caregivers go far beyond the call of duty and become a friend and companion to their patients. This provides family members with peace of mind – knowing your loved one is being cared for with compassion is priceless.
Reliable, Consistent Care
There's nothing worse for a dementia patient than confusion and stress. Assisted living facilities have several staff members working on any given day. This means your loved one may have a different caregiver every day.This can be confusing and upsetting for them.Hiring an in-home care professional means your loved one receives consistent, reliable, and familiar care. The professional arrives each day at the same time, greeting your loved one by name.This establishes trust and helps them remain calm. It also creates a structured routine, which reduces confusion.
Resources for All Family Members
In-home memory care isn't just for aging adults. Many services offer support and resources for family members, as well.Your loved one isn't the only one struggling through their dementia diagnosis. Watching your beloved family member deteriorate is extremely difficult. Let a professional assisted living team help you navigate the emotional, physical, and financial burden of caring for a loved one with dementia.
Give Your Loved One the Care They Deserve
You may be unsure of what to do following a dementia diagnosis. Your initial reaction may be to take care of your loved one yourself. And while this is commendable, it can become overwhelming for most.Hiring professional, in-home memory care assisted living services can help ease the pressure and provide your loved one with the individualized care they need.Take a moment to browse our in-home care services or call 434.202.8565 to discover how Commonwise Home Care can benefit you and your loved ones.
Disclaimer: Please check with your physician before making any changes to your diet, exercise, or medication routine.