When Is It Time to Move to Memory Care?
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than six million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia; that number is expected to increase to nearly 13 million people by the year 2050. Because of the great need for care, more than 16 million Americans are now providing unpaid care for someone with a form of dementia. Because of the complications associated with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as the progressive nature of the illnesses, caring for someone with these conditions is difficult and emotional; the unpaid care required for keeping someone with cognitive impairment safe can be stressful.
To keep the individuals safe, to ease the stress and financial strain on the family and to help support loved ones with the best resources available, many families turn to memory care communities. So, what is memory care? And how do you know when it is time to move to memory care?
What Is Memory Care?
Witnessing an older loved one suffering from the effects of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can be distressing for all involved. Memory care communities, like Bridle Brook Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, can provide much needed relief and the support to improve the quality of life for the person each and every day. In general, memory care communities are designed to meet the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments. Special considerations are made for resident safety and health and to ensure each resident lives their most positive experience. Here are some additional benefits of memory care:
- Safe, secure environment. Memory care communities provide a safe, secure environment to prevent wandering, to reduce the risk of resident falls and to reduce confusion for residents as they spend time moving around in their environment.
- Specialized care. Dedicated and specially trained team members understand the unique needs of memory care patients and can provide the best experiences and increase resident independence safely.
- Appropriate activities. Programs and activities for memory care residents are designed to promote memory health and cognitive support. At Bridle Brook, educational, social and recreational activity programs are all customized to promote resident independence and cognitive health.
- Medication management. For memory care patients living alone, managing medications can be challenging and even dangerous. Safe, dependable medication management helps residents to get the care and health support they need, without adding stressors or unnecessary risk to their day.
- Healthy dining options. A nutritious diet is important for supporting overall health. At Bridle Brook, three restaurant-style meals are available daily, plus snacks, to help keep residents energized and healthy.
- Social opportunities. Losing opportunities, the ability and even the interest in socializing does happen with age. However, staying socially active and maintaining personal connections is an important part of our mental health as we grow older! Seniors who live more isolated lifestyles are at greater risk for depression and more rapid decline in both mental and physical health, while seniors who remain active are more likely to stay healthy and maintain their health for longer.
When Is It Time for Memory Care?
So, when is it time for memory care? For each family and each person living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, this answer may be different. However, there are some signs that it may be time to begin the discussion. Here are some indicators:
- There are obvious changes in behaviors or the ability for the person to care for himself or herself.
- The living environment begins to look different. Many people with Alzheimer’s can no longer remember to keep up the house or the lawn the way they once did.
- Incontinence can become an issue for some people.
- The person shows increased signs of confusion.
- There are concerns about safety. From medication management to wandering, there are many things that can be worrisome for a family when it comes to a loved one with dementia.
- Caregivers are experiencing increasing stress.
Ultimately, the best time to begin considering memory care is before it is needed. This creates the best possible options for family members and loved ones to make choices, create timelines and advocate for the things that are most important.
About Bridle Brook Assisted Living and Memory Care Community
Bridle Brook Assisted Living and Memory Care Community offers memory care, assisted living and respite care services. Located in Mahomet, Ill., Bridle Brook is committed to providing a safe, supportive, engaging experience for residents and their families.
Interested in learning more about life at Bridle Brook? Contact us today to ask questions, share your concerns or set up a tour!