Transitioning into the next stage of life and choosing the right community for it can be overwhelming. Adjusting to a new environment and moving on from a familiar space isn’t easy.
In the later stages of life, some people may require additional support when living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or Parkinson’s.
That’s where memory care comes in.
Let’s explore what memory care is and the kind of lifestyle it can provide.
Understanding Memory Care
Many older adults may find challenges with memory and other thinking abilities. That’s natural with aging. With memory care, your loved one will be surrounded by a dedicated team and community.
Memory care is all about providing older adults with a feeling of safety and community.
The first step in understanding memory care is exploring conditions that a memory care lifestyle can help navigate.
Dementia
Dementia is a group of symptoms severely affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities. Dementia is caused by damage to or loss of nerve cells and their connections to the brain. While dementia is associated with memory loss, it’s not the sole symptom.
Some common cognitive signs and symptoms of dementia include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty communicating or finding words
- Struggling with visual and spatial abilities
- Having trouble with planning and organizing
- Confusion and disorientation
Some psychological changes include:
- Personality changes
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to shrink and brain cells to die. The early signs of Alzheimer’s disease include forgetting recent events or conversations. Unfortunately, this disease gets progressively worse.
Some symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:
- Memory loss affecting daily activities
- Trouble with familiar tasks
- Issues with speech and writing
- Decreased personal hygiene
- Mood and personality changes
- Lack of appetite
Alzheimer’s disease spans several years, and usually, your loved one will go through 7 stages.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. The symptoms are gradual and sometimes only start with a barely noticeable tremor in your hand.
Some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:
- Tremors in your hands or fingers
- Slowed movement
- Rigid muscles
- Impaired posture and balance
- Speech changes
- Writing changes
With these conditions, memory care is a great option for your loved one to get the proper care to maintain dignity and live an enjoyable life.
Reasons to Seek Memory Care
When dealing with these conditions, you may need a new homestyle environment where all your needs are met. Sometimes a caregiver may require extra help—caregiver burnout is important to monitor, and seeking out a community with a dedicated team is essential.
Having a dedicated, comfortable, and safe environment can make all the difference when adapting to a new stage of life. Your memory care lifestyle is personalized for your loved one to create the best possible experience.
What to Expect in Memory Care
The community living aspect of memory care allows seniors to live and socialize with their peers and make new friends and connections.
Some services you can expect living in memory care include:
- Residential setting
- Fully-furnished apartments
- Engagement for positive cognitive support
- Strengthening activities for walking and balance
- Thoughtfully-designed buildings to minimize confusion
Maintaining an active lifestyle while surrounded by a dedicated team of professionals who are there for your assistance is a key part of memory care. Safety and support for your loved one are a priority.
Your New Community
The transition to living in memory care can be tough. Adjusting your life to a brand new community can be challenging. Still, memory care living is customized to fit each resident’s ideal lifestyle.
Schedule a visit with professionals for more information and assistance in choosing the right memory care community for you.
