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A Family Members Guide to Find Care for Loved Ones with Dementia
Understanding what to expect from a memory care facility can be overwhelming when searching for the right place for your loved one. It’s crucial to know these communities are designed to provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
Alzheimer’s affects at least six million American seniors. Eleven million family members struggle to balance prior duties and support a loved one with memory loss. Dementia care communities are here to help the entire family unit.
Below are nine factors that should be present in a high-quality memory care community. First, learn more about this specialized service that benefits seniors and their families.
Understanding Memory Care
Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care designed specifically for seniors dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. It goes beyond the offerings of traditional senior living options to provide an environment that supports the unique needs of individuals with memory loss.
Unlike assisted living or nursing home care, memory care communities provide a higher level of supervision and purpose.
Assisted living typically offers help with daily activities such as:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Medication management
- Meal preparation
Nursing homes provide more intensive, skilled medical care for seniors who require regular medical attention. However, neither of these options is specifically designed to cater to the cognitive challenges of memory loss.
Memory care communities offer a different approach. They provide round-the-clock supervision and programs designed to:
- Slow the progression of memory loss
- Manage symptoms and behaviors
- Improve the quality of life
- Support family caregivers and keep them involved
Team members in these communities are specially trained to care for seniors with memory impairments, and the facilities are often designed to be easy to navigate and safe for residents who may become disoriented or confused.
The cost of memory care can be surprising at first. The monthly national average for dementia care is $5,625. A memory care community in the San Antonio area costs closer to $4,266.
Prices can vary widely based on:
- Location (urban or rural)
- The level of care required
- The stage of dementia
- The amenities offered by the community
However, many families find that the peace of mind and specialized care provided in memory care communities make the investment worthwhile. There are various assistance programs available.
Now, let’s dive into the key factors you should expect to see in a high-quality memory care community.
Nine Ways to Recognize High-Quality Memory Care Communities
Take the tips on what to expect below and turn them into questions for the memory care communities you visit.
1. Personalized Care Plan
Each resident should have a personalized care plan tailored to their unique needs and preferences. This plan should be regularly reviewed and adjusted as the resident’s condition evolves.
2. Qualified and Specially Trained Staff Members
A good memory care community will have team members specially trained in long-term care, particularly for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Their training should include understanding the stages of dementia, managing behaviors, and promoting quality of life.
3. Engaging Daily Activities
Daily activities should be designed to stimulate memory care residents’ cognitive, physical, and social abilities. These activities should be meaningful and enjoyable to the residents, enhancing their overall well-being.
4. Comfortable Living Spaces
The layout and design of the community should be easy to navigate and comfortable. This includes indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing residents to enjoy a variety of secure environments.
5. Nutritious Meals
Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining overall health. The community should provide balanced meals catering to each resident’s dietary needs and preferences. The culinary team should know how food interacts with the minds and bodies of the residents.
6. Regular Communication with Family Members
Family involvement is essential in a memory care community. Regular updates about the loved one’s health, behavior, and activity participation should be communicated to the family members.
7. Assistance with Daily Living Activities
From dressing to eating, residents should receive assistance with daily living activities based on their individual needs.
8. Therapeutic Programs
Therapeutic programs, such as aromatherapy, can benefit those with memory impairments significantly. These programs should be a regular part of the community’s offerings. Art, pet, and music activities are also common.
9. Respectful and Dignified Care
Above all, a high-quality memory care facility ensures that all residents are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their memory loss.
High-Quality Memory Care in Cibolo, Texas
At The Brooks of Cibolo, we understand family members’ challenges when looking for a memory care community for their loved ones.
Our memory care services are designed to ensure that our residents receive personalized, compassionate, and comprehensive care that enhances their quality of life. Our team of dementia care experts is dedicated to creating an environment where residents can thrive while receiving the care they need.
Contact us to arrange a tour of our purposeful memory care community near San Antonio, TX.
