What Makes Memory Care Different?
Memory care facilities are different from other residential communities in that they are big on the safety and security of the residents. The environment and layout are highly structured to encourage a set routine that minimises stress for patients battling Dementia or Alzheimer’s.
There are dedicated employees to help residents with meals and personal tasks. This is similar to a typical assisted and senior living. However, at memory care, staff members go through a special kind of training to deal with problems unique to memory issues like dementia. The number of check-ins with the residents is also more frequent.
It provides added support and structure to better navigate the day. All and all, the idea is to promote dignified and safe living for dementia patients.
When Should You Start Considering a Memory Care Community?
If you’re torn whether or not it’s time to consider a memory care unit, AlzheimerSupport.com recommends asking the following questions:
- Have you noticed any signs of aggression or difficult behaviour in your elderly? Are they showing bouts of anger or agitation?
- Are they prone to wandering or getting lost?
- What about physical mobility? Are they able to walk around without help or do they need a wheelchair or a walker?
- Do your loved ones need help going to the bathroom?
- Are they demanding round-the-clock supervision?
- Are your loved ones suffering from some long-term illness like diabetes, colostomy care, or regular dialysis?
- Is the person in care experiencing fatigue and burnout from providing consistent care?
If yes, you should start considering a memory care unit.
Types of Memory Care Community
Adult Day Centre
These centres provide a safe and structured space where seniors can stay during the day. This arrangement is ideal for when the primary caregiver needs a break or is away at work.
An adult day centre provides direct supervision and opportunities for socialisation, which is essential for brain health. There may even be lunch and snack options at some centres.
Adult day centres are perfect for cases when caregivers can’t provide round-the-clock care. Most centres remain open for up to 10 hours and many of them offer pick-up and drop-off services. You may even pick one that remains open on the weekends and evenings.
In-home Care
As part of an in-home memory care service, you receive help within a house rather than in a structured facility. Services provided include – housekeeping, respite/personal care, licensed nursing care, 24/7 caregiving, etc.
In-home care allows people with Dementia to maintain dignity and comfort. From the caregiver perspective also, it’s an ideal option for those who want to ensure the privacy and comfort of their loved ones right from the comfort of their house.
Types of in-home care are –
- Homemaker services
- Companion services
- Skilled care
- Personal care services
Residential Care
Residential care is given in a community-based environment. It is designed for those who need intense medical supervision and access to emergency care. Usually, people struggling with some ongoing health issues and needing more elaborate medical needs opt for this option.
Please note that residential memory care communities can be of multiple types; all designed to offer a continuum of care for different levels.
The common types are –
- Assisted Living
- Independent living
- Continuum of care
- Nursing care homes
Tips for Selecting the Right memory care Unit
Start the Process Early
It’s good to start looking through memory care facilities for seniors early on the moment you notice signs of dementia. Always take your loved one’s input into account at this stage.
If possible, ask them about the kind of setting they would prefer, their preferable location, nature of community, and their favourite activities. Once dementia has worsened, communication becomes more difficult. So, it’s best to ask these questions early on.
Look at Various Activities and Programs
It’s important to pick a community with the right kind of programs and activities that your loved ones prefer. This is essential for engagement. Many communities offer memory care programs that are good for brain health. Residents feel important, accepted and comfortable participating in such enrichment programs.
Staff Training
Caring for a Dementia patient is quite different from caring for other individuals. They have a special set of problems that need a special skill-set for handling them.
For example, residents may show difficult behaviours, signs of aggression, and stubbornness. Without proper behavioural and medical training, the staff may not be able to handle medical emergencies and tough behaviour.
So, always ask around about the kind of training the staff has gone through.
Building Layout
Compared to other senior living communities, memory care facilities look the most home-like. Many units feature a unique layout to promote easy navigation. The floor plans are designed to minimise confusion, prevent wandering, and encourage independence.
During your preliminary search, it’s crucial that your pay attention to these design elements –
- Colour-coded halls
- Soundproof walls
- Safety railings and anti-slip floors
- Shorter hallways that don’t repeat
- Personalised room doors and picture frames
How Much Personal Care Can Residents Expect?
Behavioural Management
Asking questions about staff interaction is important. How do staff members interact and meet the residents’ needs? Is there 24/7 nursing available? What dementia-specific emergency protocol does the facility follow? What do they do in case a person becomes aggressive?
Cost and Duration
Cost is often the single most important factor that determines where your seniors end up, community-wise. A lot of factors can affect the memory care cost such as the list of amenities, location, level of care, etc. Always break down what all is included in the monthly fees and how things would change based on changing needs.
Safety Features
Safety elements and protocols are a huge part of the memory care unit. It prevents wandering, something which is common with dementia patients. During your visit, pay attention to these safety features –
- 24-hour Care
- Fenced courtyard and perimeter
- Emergency alarm system
- Keypad entry
- The alarm on all emergency exits
How to Find a Memory Care Near You?
To locate the best care unit, try the following –
- Contact your friends and family members for references. It’s best to ask for those who have experienced the community you’re contemplating.
- Do a quick Google search and look at the facilities carrying reviews with the most promise.
- Look into how the background check is completed for staff members at the prospective community.
- Create a list of your loved one’s needs in the order of priorities. Make sure that the facility is able to match those needs.
- Create a list of questions to ask when you visit different communities or call them.
Bottom Line
During your visit, communicate your loved one’s special needs and wants. It’s good to talk about things that easily trigger them so that staff can stay vigilant of it. When a staff understands a resident better, they can draft a better quality plan for them.
Lastly, make sure to take plenty of time looking into several memory care units before you find the right one. Avoid rushing into things.