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When something serious and acute happens, like an accident or a trauma, the natural response is to jump into action and respond to what is urgently needed. Memory Care Mira Mesa
However, when it comes to age-related cognitive decline such as dementia, people do not naturally spring into making plans. Instead, signs and symptoms still had to unfold over a period of time, making it difficult to pinpoint when memory care is truly needed.
→ Check out our Memory Care service at Mira Mesa.
There are also other factors such as psychological impacts and emotional responses in the family. This is why being aware of the telling signs that it is time for memory care would help you become objective and arrive at a sound decision.
What is Memory Care?
Memory care is a type of specialized care for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Senior communities with memory care services have trained staff to address the health and special needs of their residents. There are also programs, activities, and therapies that are specially designed to help memory care residents work on their cognitive abilities while enjoying their interests and building companionship.
6 Signs Your Loved One Needs Memory Care
1. The diagnosis
Once the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia is given, it is time to talk about memory care.
→ Check out our Memory Care service at Mira Mesa.
It is understandable and acceptable for families to desire to care for their seniors with dementia at home for as long as they can, as long as this setup does not affect the patient’s health negatively. Although, transitioning to memory care at an early stage allows your loved one to have a say on this decision which is important. It also enables them to participate in choosing the community and intentionally form relationships.
2. The decline in overall health
As memory loss sets in, abilities to do activities for daily living (ADLs) may also decline. There will be times when seniors with dementia would lose track of time and days, which may lead to serious problems and affect their health.
Some physical signs that this is happening to include drastic weight loss, lack of food in the kitchen, forgotten medications, neglected personal hygiene, and bruises and injuries.
3. Confusion and disorientation
Confusion and disorientation is unfortunately common with dementia and can lead to serious accidents. For instance, an elderly with dementia could forget traffic rules and run through a traffic light. Some people forget to lock the doors, even if they think they already did. Some might wander from home and get confused on their way back.
So when your loved ones are continually putting their safety at risk, then it’s time to consider memory care.
4. Change in behavior
Some seniors with dementia may start acting dramatically or may become more anxious or agitated. Because of their confusion, they may suddenly be apprehensive about driving or decline invitations from friends and families. Different insecurities might arise that could make them question their self-worth.
These are common tendencies of people with dementia that memory care in a community might be able to help. Communities are designed to address their needs, without sacrificing independence.
→ Check out our Memory Care service at Mira Mesa.
5. Little to no social life
The social life of someone with dementia shrinks significantly which might worsen and accelerate their condition. Although they are confused and forgetful, socializing is still a universal need that their conditions might deprive them of.
This is why on top of on-site medical care and ADL assistance, memory care facility residents also enjoy vibrant and rich social lives. These communities have creative activities that help residents feel welcome and connected with one another.
6. Caregiver stress and deterioration
Caregiving for a loved one with dementia is a full-time commitment. Without having regular respite care, DIY caregiving becomes impossible as the condition progresses. Just imagine, even trained staff and caregivers find caring for someone who needs memory care is difficult and taxing, especially those in mid to later stages of memory loss.
→ Check out our Memory Care service at Mira Mesa.
And you should also consider your own well-being. If the stress of everyday life, coupled with caregiving for someone with memory loss, is preventing you from feeling happy and healthy, it may be time to consider memory care.
The Next Steps
You finally know the telling signs of when it’s time to consider memory care. If these apply to you, it is time to follow the signs and your instincts. Ask your doctor about the health considerations and consult them about the diagnosis and your next steps.
Memory care communities can provide the support that your loved one needs. Talk to us at BestPlace4Seniors about your situation, and learn more about the memory care communities near you.
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