Senior living communities are great ways for an older adult to maintain an active and independent lifestyle. Memory care is a more advanced form of senior care that centers around caring for residents who have trouble with their cognitive skills and ability to care for themselves due to dementia or one of its related conditions. These communities typically offer specialized services that help seniors maintain their independence as much as possible.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for the perfect community because it doesn’t exist. Each community may offer slightly different services or environments, even if they’re the same type of senior community. It’s important to consider things like location, staff, available programs, security, and the cost when deciding which community to retire to.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care refers to an exclusive form of long-term care that caters to individuals experiencing dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other memory-related conditions. The primary goal of memory care is to offer specialized care that optimizes the quality of life for those living with memory challenges.
One of the most significant advantages of memory care is that it provides residents with a safe environment designed for their needs. This specialized care focuses on security measures such as dementia-friendly structures and security personnel, minimizing the risk for residents, including wandering and potential falls.
What Services Does Memory Care Often Include?
Memory care may look similar to an assisted living community in many ways, and many communities offer both services to make transitions between assisted living and memory care smooth.
The following are some common things you can expect with memory care.
Specialized Services
Memory care communities typically offer specialized services for those with cognitive issues. These services incorporate a variety of therapies, exercises, and activities tailored to meet each resident’s unique needs. The goal is to enhance cognitive ability, promote physical health, and reduce stress.
Comfortable Living Spaces
Memory care residents live in safe, secure, and comfortable environments that promote independence while also providing easy access to all amenities. They may enjoy private or semi-private rooms that provide personal space, security, and comfort. In addition, the communities are designed to keep residents safe and secure, with features like secured doors, alarmed exits, and nurse call systems.
Medication Management
Seniors with memory disorders often require regular medication management that considers their unique needs and preferences. Memory care communities usually employ skilled and experienced healthcare professionals who help manage medication administration schedules.
They may also monitor medical records and ensure that residents take their necessary medication at the right time and correct dosage. Families can rest easy knowing that their loved ones receive their medication precisely when they need it.
Nutritious Meals
Nutrition is a vital component of healthy living, and memory care communities appreciate this fact. Most communities provide healthy and nutritious meals prepared with senior-friendly diets in mind. The food is usually prepared by professional chefs to ensure that they’re not only nutritious but also delicious.
Social Interaction
Humans crave social interaction, and age doesn’t change that. Though memory care residents often have memory issues, they still thrive on social interaction. Memory care communities understand the value of social connection and provide various group activities and events that promote social interaction among residents. These activities allow residents to form new friendships and engage in their favorite pastimes.
How to Choose a Memory Care Community
There are several things that you should consider when deciding on which senior community to call home.
Location & Accessibility
It’s essential to consider the community’s location when selecting a memory care community. You want your new home to be accessible to family and friends and in a safe part of town. You should also consider how close the community is to hospitals or doctor’s offices. Proximity to amenities, like shopping centers and parks, can also promote outdoor activities and improve your loved one’s quality of life.
Staffing
A crucial factor to consider in a memory care community is its staffing. Ensure the community has sufficient staff trained to care for your loved one. Additionally, you should evaluate the staff’s empathy, patience, and understanding, as individuals with memory loss may require extra of these things.
Programs & Activities
Memory loss can be isolating, especially if the person must remain confined to their room or unit. So, you should select a memory care community that offers stimulating programs and activities tailored to the needs of your loved one. These programs can range from art and music therapy, to memory games, or group exercises.
Safety & Security
Individuals with memory loss are prone to wander, which can be dangerous if they are not in a secure home. You need to ensure that the memory care community has strict safety and security measures in place. Consider checking if they have a secure entry or exit system, CCTV cameras, and alarms for each unit. These measures can give you peace of mind, knowing your loved one is safe.
Cost
You should also consider the cost of the memory care community. Memory care can be costly, and you should understand the different costs associated with the care, such as medication, food, and personal care. Consider if the community accepts aid and attendance benefits or Medicaid, which can help offset the costs of memory care.
Come Visit Us for a Community Tour
A community tour will ultimately be one of the primary ways to determine whether a particular community is right for you or your loved one. Contact our team today at Sommerset Neighborhood. We’re happy to answer all your questions and book you a tour so you can see what our community has to offer.
