Is Memory Care Right for Your Loved One?

Memory Care is a dedicated care program in highly regarded senior living communities for people living with forms of dementia like Alzheimer’s disease. Such a care program can be helpful for families navigating this disease as they ensure their loved ones have a safe, secure, and supportive living environment to call home.

While knowing whether Memory Care is right for your loved one is rarely easy, you may be able to come to a suitable conclusion by taking the following actions:

Step 1: Assess Their Needs

Even before you schedule a tour of a standout senior living community offering Memory Care, you can assess your loved one’s needs to see if it’s a worthwhile consideration for their future.

Think about whether your loved one struggles with basic tasks like managing their medication, cooking, eating, bathing, and even getting themselves ready in the morning. If you think your family member is struggling with these tasks or has shown a decline, you may like to explore Memory Care in the near future.

Step 2: Look for Behavioral Changes

Being diagnosed with dementia can mean that your loved one will likely experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms as their disease progresses. These symptoms can include anxiety, confusion, and agitation.

Such symptoms often mean that everyday home environments aren’t always safe or suitable. Instead, more purpose-built communities with secure areas can be.  

Step 3: Evaluate Social Interactions

Some people are social butterflies, while others are more introverted. While both social engagement levels are okay, you may like to evaluate your loved one’s social interactions to see if there are any changes in how and when they socialize.

Consider whether they’re more isolated than usual or have become more withdrawn. As people living with dementia begin to experience memory and thinking problems, they may also lose their self-esteem and confidence, the ability to enjoy hobbies, and their social roles and relationships.

You may consider a Memory Care program sooner rather than later to help them retain their social skills for as long as possible. Many of the best communities prioritize life skills stations and regular social opportunities for resident happiness and well-being.

Step 4: Consider Safety

Traditional home environments don’t stay safe for people living with dementia forever. There may come a time when your family member is at risk of falls or has started wandering. In that case, a more secure living environment may be worth considering.

Top-rated senior living communities with Memory Care programs provide secure and comfortable living environments with a dedicated team of professionals to offer supervision and support. Residents enjoy activities, social opportunities, quality housing, and delicious food within a more secure environment than a traditional home.

Step 5: Talk to Healthcare Professionals

You don’t have to make this decision on your own. While you might suspect that a Memory Care program is the best option for your loved one, your loved one’s healthcare provider can also help.  

If you are your family member’s personal representative, you can likely discuss their health and potential future health needs with their doctor. When you have all the facts, you can make the right decision at the right time.

Learn More About Memory Care at Adante Assisted Living & Memory Care

You don’t have to make a decision right away, but there’s certainly plenty to think about before exploring Memory Care programs.

If you’ve taken these steps above and believe Memory Care is right for your family member, schedule a tour of Adante Assisted Living & Memory Care today. We are here to answer your questions and help you make an informed decision.