We all forget things from time to time: a misplaced set of car keys or a moment of wondering why we walked into a room.
Usually, we can laugh it off. But sometimes, that laughter isn’t the first instinct. Sometimes, it’s raised eyebrows because it’s the fifth time your loved one has forgotten something today, and it’s only 10 AM.
When memory loss impacts everyday life, it may be time to consider a better option for your family member, like a memory care community. But what is memory care, and is it the right choice? Read on for our comprehensive overview.
What Is Memory Care in Senior Living, Phoenixville, PA?
Memory care is different from other senior living options you might see advertised. Memory care is more specialized and tailored, focusing specifically on helping those with cognitive issues like Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.
Memory care communities focus on support that’s also secure and safe for the resident because cognitive issues come with unique risks, such as finding yourself in unfamiliar surroundings or forgetting something important, like leaving a tap running.
Staff in memory care communities have specialized senior care training that helps them understand some of the unique aspects of the disease and how to approach it compassionately and respectfully.
Signs Your Loved One Needs Memory Care, Pennsylvania
It can be a difficult and emotional experience to spot signs of memory loss in a loved one like a parent. Nevertheless, honesty and openness are the keys to supporting them. Addressing the issue without unnecessary delays means your loved one can get the proper treatment and the best care.
Signs that memory loss in your loved one requires professional care include:
- Confusions over the time of day or routine
- Confusions about location or wandering
- Difficulty handling finances, such as not recalling how money was spent
- Difficulty remembering medication, such as skipping or double-dosing
- Personality changes like aggression, withdrawal, or agitation
- Difficulty with basic daily tasks like getting dressed
- Forgetting to eat
You must take this time to note the symptoms and not become too overwhelmed. Getting a clear picture of the problem areas for your loved one will ensure you can find a care package that best fits their needs while helping them maintain some independence.
Memory Care Communities: Key Services
Let’s look at some of the details of memory care communities. While you may find different services on offer in different communities, there will be some commonalities. Here are the services you are likely to see in your search for memory care:
Cognitive Impairment Assistance: Ongoing Personal Care
Memory care support includes help from trained Alzheimer’s support teams. In communities like ours, this care plan is personalized for each resident to best fit their unique needs. It might consist of assistance with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Daily Social Activities
Caregivers will ensure residents have a structured and safe environment in the community, but they’ll also ensure it’s enriching. Daily social activities like chess or yoga can help residents socialize and strengthen their cognitive skills.
Nutritious Dining
Community dining gives residents access to pleasant and social surroundings. You’ll also find that the best communities, like ours, offer balanced and varied menus with fresh, nutritious ingredients, ensuring your loved one stays in the best health, even if they struggle with meal planning due to cognitive decline.
Safe and Comfortable Senior Living Options
Private living quarters offer a location that feels like home. Memory care communities are purposely designed apartments that help residents live safely, minimizing confusion and potential hazards.
Family Community
Family connections are crucial to a happy and independent retirement, especially when there are cognitive challenges. Memory care teams can be that vital link between the two, keeping families updated on what their loved ones are doing and offering peace of mind.
Specialized Training for Memory Care Teams
One of the most important features of any memory care community is the staff. It takes a few special qualities in a person to make it on our memory care team at Spring Mill Senior Living.
Memory care teams are trained in the following:
- Knowledge of Alzheimer’s and other dementia conditions
- The latest techniques in dementia care
- How to handle behavioral changes
- How to support residents with challenges like agitation and confusion
- How to communicate effectively to a memory care patient
- De-escalation strategies
This is a good example of patient-centered care, where support is there to make residents feel heard, understood, and respected. Teams can also guide residents on cognitive and sensory activities that act as a form of therapy for those living with memory loss.
Health and Wellness
Cognitive health is vital for memory care residents, but it is only one aspect of well-being. Of equal importance is physical health, which is why top communities like ours will provide a range of health and wellness activities on-site.
This can help ensure residents stay active and mobile as they age, supporting their independence.
Well-being can also take other forms, like tracking nutritional intake, watching for signs of dehydration, and monitoring for unintentional weight loss.
Personal Care in Senior Living Communities: Creating Familiar Routines
For those experiencing memory loss, unfamiliar surroundings and people can lead to feelings of fear and confusion. Dementia care teams counter this by creating stability in day-to-day life via routines, down to the small details like shower times and meals.
The predictability brings a sense of security to residents. Planned schedules ensure residents know what to expect, and they will always have the friendly face of a carer nearby to remind them or introduce someone they may not recognize.
Finding the Best Memory Care Community
So, what is memory care? In short, it’s ongoing, tailored support that adapts to your loved one’s needs and gives them the best quality of life. That’s why it’s crucial you search for the best community in your area.
We think we have that to offer here at Spring Mill Senior Living. You’ll find that it’s a great fit with a fantastic range of amenities, comfortable living arrangements, and caring staff. Why not book a tour to see our memory care, Phoenixville, PA, community for yourself?
