Retirees come to Florida for the beautiful beaches and warm weather, but have you ever stopped to think about the need for dementia care in the Sunshine State?
There was an influx of 78,000 senior residents from other states in 2021. Many who come for the fun and sun will eventually need specialized memory care. It’s essential to start considering Florida dementia care options for yourself or a loved one.
Alzheimer’s Statistics and the Need for Florida Dementia Care
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately 6.2 million Americans over 65 are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
In Florida alone, it’s estimated that over 580,000 seniors have Alzheimer’s. These staggering numbers highlight the need for quality dementia care in the state.
The need for senior dementia care is now. Consider these statistics:
- About 10.7 percent of people over 65 have Alzheimer’s in the US. That does not factor in other forms of dementia.
- Seventy-three percent of people with Alzheimer’s are 75 or older, and most are women.
- In 2021, 54 percent of seniors who moved into Florida were 60+. Forty-six percent were 70 and older.
- Alzheimer’s in America is expected to double to 13 million people by 2050 due to the growing older generation.
- We will need 1.2 million additional direct care workers by 2030 to meet the demand of people with dementia in the US.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Explained
Dementia is an umbrella term for a decline in brain function that affects a person’s ability to:
- Think
- Reason
- Communicate
Alzheimer’s disease is just one of the many forms of dementia. None of them are normal parts of aging.
The signs and symptoms of dementia can vary from person to person, but some common things to look out for include:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty with language
- Trouble completing familiar tasks
- Problems with spatial orientation and visuospatial abilities
- Changes in mood or personality
- Wandering and confusion of time and place
Memory loss is often the most notable symptom of dementia, particularly in the early stages. A person with dementia may forget recently learned information, important dates or events, or have difficulty retaining new information.
Difficulty with language is another common symptom of dementia. This can include difficulty finding words, understanding language, or even speaking or writing clearly.
Trouble completing familiar tasks can also be a sign of dementia. This could be something as simple as forgetting how to tie shoelaces or prepare a once routine meal.
Problems with spatial orientation and visuospatial abilities can also occur in people with dementia. They may have difficulty judging distances and depth perception, which can make activities such as driving dangerous.
Changes in mood and personality are also common symptoms of dementia. A person with dementia may experience sudden mood swings or personality changes and become confused, suspicious, or even paranoid.
It’s important to note that these symptoms are not always a direct indication of dementia and can be caused by other factors. If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it’s critical to speak with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Who Cares for Older Adults with Alzheimer’s or Dementia?
Often, it’s a family member caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. While this can be a labor of love, it can also come with significant challenges and stress. Seniors who have moved to Florida for retirement may not have nearby family to support them.
Full-time home care, around 44 hours per week, costs an average of $4,576 per month. However, people with dementia will eventually need 24-hour care and supervision, and 24-hour home care can cost over $18,000 per month, making it an unaffordable option for many older adults.
On the other hand, senior living communities that offer Assisted Living and Memory Care can be a cost-effective and enjoyable option for seniors with dementia. These communities provide personalized care and support for seniors, helping them maintain their independence while enjoying the benefits of living in a supportive environment.
The Benefits of Higher Levels of Care in Florida Senior Living Communities with Assisted Living and Memory Care
Assisted Living and Memory Care communities are senior living facilities that offer higher levels of care for seniors who require assistance with daily living tasks and specialized care for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Unlike independent living or retirement villages, these communities provide an environment where residents can receive:
- Personalized care and support
- Independence
- Physical and social activity
- Maintenance-free living
- A fulfilling lifestyle
Assisted Living communities offer various services and amenities to seniors who need help with daily living tasks, such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meals. These communities provide a sense of community, socialization, and a range of activities to help residents stay active and engaged.
Memory Care communities offer tailored care and support for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. These communities are designed with the unique needs of seniors with dementia in mind, with specialized programming, activities, and a secure environment that promotes relaxation and comfort.
At an Assisted Living and Memory Care community such as Élan Manatee, our goal is to provide seniors with the highest level of care, support, and comfort possible. We understand the unique challenges of aging and are dedicated to providing residents with a fulfilling and joyful lifestyle.
The Cottage is our neighborhood designed specifically to meet the needs of seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s. We provide a supportive atmosphere where residents can find purpose and explore their independence.
Our team members are trained to provide individualized care that promotes residents’ independence and quality of life. We offer specialized programs and services focusing on cognitive and physical health, such as music therapy and exercise programs.
Choosing a senior living community that provides higher levels of care can benefit not only the seniors with dementia but also their loved ones. It can provide peace of mind knowing that family members are receiving professional, specialized care in a supportive and comfortable environment.
Think About Future Needs For Dementia Care in Florida
If you or a loved one needs supportive living or dementia care in Florida, consider Élan Manatee for quality and compassionate care. Contact us to discuss senior living options in Bradenton, Florida.
