What Is Memory Care?
As the population of seniors in the United States continues to grow, the need for a variety of eldercare services also increases. From senior living communities to long-term care facilities, there is a wide range of services available to fit the needs of aging Americans. One of the fastest-growing needs for seniors is the need for care for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. According to data from the Alzheimer’s Association, there were more than five million Americans in the U.S. living with Alzheimer’s disease in 2020, and that number is expected to increase to more than 14 million by the year 2050.
While many family members choose to care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease at home during the early stages of the disease, as the symptoms progress, it can be safer to relocate the patient to a specialized care community. If you are considering memory care for a loved one, it helps to understand what memory care is, what the benefits are and how to select the best option for your needs.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care communities are designed to meet the unique needs of patients living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Memory care is often selected as the best option for long-term care for people who require a higher level of support than those considering assisted living. The specialized designs of the facilities and additional attention to safety and security make memory care an easy choice for many families.
Overall, the goal of memory care is to create a safe, respectful environment where residents can maintain their independence for as long as possible. At memory care communities, like Bridle Brook Senior Living, team members receive special training to ensure they are up to date on the latest therapies and tools to support residents. Also, communities like Bridle Brook are designed to evolve with the residents and to meet their needs at each stage of their disease. For example, while some residents may move to Bridle Brook while they are still independent, over time, their needs will change and they will require an increased level of support.
There is no singular way to approach memory care, but there are some key components of successful programs for families to keep in mind:
- A focus on physical activity
- Attention to physical health and emotional health
- Dedication to nutrition
- An understanding of total wellness
- A commitment to resident safety and security
- Recognition of the importance of family and friends
- Utilization of the latest therapies and teaching tools
- A commitment to cognitive training
What Are the Benefits of Memory Care?
In order to keep residents safe and take their unique needs into account, memory care communities are designed differently than other senior care communities; they are designed and managed with a unique focus on the care needed to keep Alzheimer’s and dementia patients safe. Here are some of the benefits available through memory care communities, like Bridle Brook, for patients and their families:
- Careful facility designs with dementia patients’ safety in mind
- Maintenance staff on duty daily
- Snacks and chef-prepared meals daily
- Courtesy transportation to appointments and outings
- Soft lighting to minimize overstimulation
- Social activity programs
- On-site therapy services
Understanding Your Choices
The community at Bridle Brook Senior Living addresses the needs of each person with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and creates a unique experience tailored to each resident. There is an emphasis on getting to know each person as an individual and creating experiences and daily schedules that align with that person’s wants, goals and hobbies.
Do you have questions about memory care? Do you want to know if it is right for your family? We are happy to talk and answer all your questions! Contact us today.