Every older adult differs in terms of their personal and medical needs. If you are caring for an aging loved one, you may start to notice their lifestyle needs starting to change at some point in their lives which may require a change of senior care services. Witnessing an aging loved one losing their memory can be heart-breaking. But it may also be an indicator that they require memory care in Roanoke, VA. Find out how to tell if it is indeed time to move them to memory care.
What is Memory Care?
A memory care program is designed to provide specialized care to older adults with memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The main objective of the program is to help improve the quality of life of residents and to help slow them the progression of their memory-related diseases. In general, a memory care community offers the same amenities as an assisted living community. However, memory care services are more extensive and long-term. Some of the services offered to memory care residents include the following:
- Transportation
- Access to medical care
- Health and exercise programs
- Assistance with hygiene
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- 24/7 security and supervision
- Emergency response system
- Three meals daily
- Safe environment
- Social opportunities
When to Move to Memory Care
So when to know that it is time to move your aging loved one to memory care? It may not be an easy decision to make but it is highly necessary to ensure your loved one can receive the specialized care they need. You may look out for the signs below which can be an indicator of your aging loved one requiring memory care:
- Behavioral Changes – Look for changes in your loved one’s behavior. A person with dementia might become easily irritable or anxious. They may also forget to keep up with their personal hygiene and other daily living activities. Some older adults with dementia also become anti-social and withdrawn.
- Unhealthy Living Space – Some older adults may start to abandon their daily chores around the house. Food may be left untouched, trash can pile up, and their house generally looks unkempt and in a poor condition. They may also forget about paying their bills which may affect their electricity supply.
- Disorientation or Confusion – Those with dementia often become disorientated or confused. A fragile state of mind puts the older adult at a higher risk of accidents and other unsafe situations. If your aging loved one is at a constant risk of hazards, moving them to memory care will enable them to retire in a safe environment.
- Incontinence – Incontinence is a huge concern as memory starts to slip away. It is unsanitary and can overwhelm the caregiver. For older adults who keep forgetting about responding to the calls of nature, it is a problem for their hygiene.
- Unsafe at Home – A decline in health can lead to bruises, weight loss, and difficulty standing. Many older adults with dementia experience broken bones and falls due to imbalance. Some may also wander from home which puts their safety at risk.
