Seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia need specialized care. However, they also want to lead full, enriching lives and feel as if they belong in a community. The right community will make them feel safe and supported.
Why Choose Memory Care?
Families want to know what makes memory care different than other senior living options. Memory care communities are designed to keep individuals with cognitive decline safe and comfortable while ensuring they have the support they need. The memory care services designed for seniors improve their quality of life.
Security
The memory care community is designed with security in mind. These communities have secured entrances, alarm systems, and surveillance cameras. Residents may be equipped with tracking bracelets, so if they wander, staff members can easily determine where they have gone. They have the freedom to explore, and families know they are safe when doing so.
Freedom
Residents can easily navigate the community because they are designed to be safe and familiar. Color-coded hallways are common in these communities, and there are signs to direct residents to their destinations. The walkways remain well lit so residents can navigate within the community without becoming anxious. Each resident has their own living space where familiar things can surround them.
Structure
Individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease do best when they have a routine and structured activities. However, each person is unique. A memory care community tailors the activities and routine to meet the needs of the individual, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach. The activities are designed to stimulate cognitive function while supporting the person’s emotional well-being.
Staff Training
Individuals struggling with cognitive decline often have challenges. Staff members must be equipped to handle these challenges and meet the unique needs of the individual. Doing so fosters trust and emotional safety. When the individual becomes agitated or anxious, the staff will be able to calm them down and redirect them to prevent the situation from escalating.
Socialization
Every person needs companionship. A person struggling with cognitive impairment is no different than other humans. Memory care communities offer group activities and outings to ensure residents don’t feel isolated.. These socialization opportunities support the residents’ mental health.
Peace of Mind
Families have peace of mind when their loved ones live in a memory care community. They know these individuals are in a secure and nurturing environment. Their dignity is maintained, and they are safe. Family involvement is an essential part of memory care. Families are encouraged to visit regularly, and they receive frequent updates on their loved ones. Staff members are also able to educate family members about their loved one’s situation and provide support as needed.
Therapy
Memory care community residents take part in therapy. Some residents benefit from arts and music therapy, and reminiscence therapy is becoming more common. Staff at the community determine which therapy might be of most benefit to each resident, so they get the most from this treatment. Residents may also take part in immersive experiences to help calm their agitation or anxiety.
No family wants to see a loved one experience cognitive decline. When they do, memory care communities can assist. These thoughtfully designed environments provide seniors with a safe and supportive place where they can live life to the fullest. The communities ensure their dignity and emotional well-being are safeguarded as they go through this challenging period of life. With the help of a memory care community, seniors with cognitive decline can have the highest quality of life in their final years.
