Memory care is one of the most sensitive and vital topics today. As people live longer and advance into their golden years, new challenges need addressing when it comes to providing senior-friendly housing with the right amenities and services.
There are various solutions for seniors who need help with day-to-day tasks, from assisted living facilities to home care services. Now, when it comes to memory care, different levels of support can be provided based on each individual’s needs.
Memory care communities have grown considerably over the last few years as more people have become aware of its growing importance. Below you will find helpful information about memory care services so you can make an informed decision about your loved one and their future housing options.
What Is Memory Care?
People with memory loss often require specialized care that considers their specific medical needs. It is estimated that around 10% of Americans aged over 65 will develop some form of dementia. That’s where memory care comes in.
Memory care is a type of housing designed for people suffering from different forms of dementia. It is typically a more intense level of care than regular assisted living services.
In fact, many memory care units are located inside an assisted living facilities. Memory care units may be completely separate from other assisted living residents or co-located in a single building. However, co-location is more common for memory care units because of the specialized needs of memory care residents with dementia.
Why is Memory Care So Important?
Memory care is important because it addresses the specific needs of people with dementia. Senior-friendly housing is an essential consideration for anyone who is retired or approaching retirement age.
According to the CDC, around 15 million people in the U.S. currently live with Alzheimer’s disease, early-stage dementia, or another form of it. This number is expected to grow as the average lifespan increases.
Many people with dementia are living longer, fuller lives thanks to advancements in medical research. People institutionalized in the past can now live at home thanks to the availability of different types of supportive care.
Even though medical advancements have made it possible for people with dementia to stay in their own homes for longer, many seniors are at risk of slipping through the cracks and not receiving adequate care. Thus, the need for senior-friendly housing options will continue to increase as the population ages.
Types of Memory Care Services
Medical Care
People with dementia often have specific medical needs that need to be addressed. Along with prescription medications, providers also offer various supplemental services to manage pain, mood disorders, and other special needs.
Dementia Care Plans
Dementia care plans (DCPs) are helpful for dementia patients and are designed to help everyone know what to expect as the disease progresses. They are also an excellent way for family members and friends to learn more about dementia and how they can help.
Specialized Care
Many memory care facilities employ health care providers and staff members to create and provide personal care services to memory care residents. These staff members may have experience working with people with specific conditions like Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia.
Healthy and Safe Environment
Most memory care communities provide environments that promote residents’ safety and independence. They are often equipped with items like grab bars, extra door locks, and strategically placed call buttons.
Specialized Activities and Programs
Activities are a great way to promote cognitive and physical health in people with dementia. Memory care facilities often offer a wide variety of activities to help keep residents engaged, occupied, and happy.
How To Find the Right Memory Care Community
Finding a good memory care facility that matches your loved one’s specific needs is essential. It can be easy to get overwhelmed when looking for the right facility. To simplify the process, follow these tips:
Research
Before you start searching for a memory care facility, ensure you are ready. You will need to know what your loved one’s specific needs are. You will also need to know what type of care they will require. This will help you narrow down your search so you can quickly find a good fit.
Ask Questions
Once you start contacting memory care facilities, try and ask plenty of questions. You want to ensure that these facilities provide the care your loved one needs. You also want to ensure they are the right fit for your loved one’s personality and needs.
Get a Second Opinion
It is important to visit multiple memory care facilities to find the right match for your loved one. You can narrow down your search by choosing a few specific criteria based on your loved one’s needs. Once you find a few potential memory care facilities, visit them in person to get a feel for the environment.
Look for License and Accreditation
You also have to ensure that the facility you choose has been licensed to operate and has some accreditation. This will give you peace of mind knowing your loved one is in the safe hands of professional healthcare providers who have been recognized for outstanding work.
Experience Peace of Mind With StoneBridge
Most people struggle with memory recall as they age, and dementia is becoming more common among older adults yearly. This means that more people in the aging population will require memory care services.
Unfortunately, memory care is often overlooked in the beginning stages of planning for aging parents or other loved ones, despite its importance.
That said, finding the right fit for your loved one’s specific needs is essential. So, should you find yourself in a situation where you need to plan for memory care, then you should reach out to StoneBridge Senior Living.
We offer specialized memory care services to ensure our patient’s specific needs are met and that they receive the care they need to lead healthy and happy life during their golden years.
Call us today at 573.437.6877 for more information on our services.