Understanding Memory Care: An Overview for Families
It’s estimated that nearly seven million Americans live with Alzheimer’s. For many seniors and their loved ones, understanding the care associated with memory concerns can present a challenge of its own. The following guide introduces the basics of memory care to give seniors and their families an idea of what to expect and how to know when memory care may be necessary.
What is Memory Care?
In addition to the essential services most senior home care providers offer, memory care tends to the needs of patients living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or other types of memory conditions. Services are tailored to individuals who may struggle to remember who or where they are. Every effort is made to provide a safe environment with structure and support.
Families often seek memory care to provide a long-term solution. Memory care facilities and staff members can work to slow the progression of various memory-related diseases, at least as much as possible, given what we know about Alzheimer’s and dementia. In many cases, the care provided is tailored more to managing symptoms.
Within memory care facilities, caregivers often work from custom care plans to provide around-the-clock support. Wellness, diet, and socialization also play a role. Seniors and their loved ones can rely on these caregivers for open communication and peace of mind.
Benefits of Memory Care
Although memory care is often more intensive than traditional senior home care, both offer similar benefits. Seniors with memory concerns thrive within an environment suited to their individual needs, from safety to structure. Caregivers within a memory care unit provide several vital resources.
How to Tell When Memory Care May Be Necessary
Memory loss is as unique as our own personalities, so knowing exactly when memory care may be necessary can be challenging. However, seniors and their families can consult with senior home care providers such as Visiting Angels Toms River to understand and identify the markers. For example, families may feel their aging loved one is at risk when left alone or may have noticed changes in their behavior.
Visiting Angels Toms River caregivers can assist well before memory care is absolutely necessary, which can help ease the transition. While there are no legal requirements to enter memory care, many families make the decision when they feel their aging loved one is exposed to more risk when left alone.
Memory Care With Visiting Angels Toms River
Dealing with memory loss in an elderly loved one can be difficult at best. We encourage you to reach out and strengthen your support system with knowledgeable staff ready to lend a helping hand. The following resources can help you understand more about symptoms and conditions related to memory loss:
- Highlighting World Alzheimer’s Month Awareness
- Fun and Easy Memory Games for Loved Ones with Early-Stage Dementia
- 6 Daily Habits That Are Good for the Brain
- Reminiscing Is Good for The Soul
- Spotting Anxiety and Depression in Seniors with Memory Disorders
- Understanding the Seven Stages of Alzheimer’s
If you’d like to learn more about how Visiting Angels Toms River can help you and your aging loved one, contact us to set up a free consultation. Our care staff pride themselves on crafting tailored care plans that account for everyone’s concerns and needs.