Author: Alicia Centeno
Reviewed By: Catherine Braxton
Memory care comes after assisted living, although some individuals who struggle with physical health issues may find skilled nursing care more appropriate. These levels of support also include around-the-clock assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming and taking medications.
Memory care also adds an extra layer of care through specialized programming, highly-trained caregivers and a secure, easy-to-navigate layout that helps prevent confusion and wandering behaviors. If you’re considering memory care for yourself or a loved one, explore the defining features of these communities.
Memory care communities provide a wide range of evidence-based activities to help ease symptoms of Alzheimer’s and related dementias and slow cognitive decline. Research shows that when seniors stay occupied with a task and keep their minds active, they’re less likely to have a decline in their thinking abilities, which makes brain games and other no-fail activities important.
These communities focus on purpose-driven programming that elicits reminiscing. Activities may include gentle exercise programs, crafts and puzzles, as well as art, music and reminiscence therapies. Since these activities stimulate the mind and body, they may help seniors stay in good overall health.
It’s no secret that memory care residents require specialized care, and these communities take that into close consideration when hiring. Staff receive specialty training and certification to support those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Highly-skilled personnel in these communities include licensed nurses, dementia specialists and caregivers who receive ongoing training in dementia care so they can address the unique challenges of those living with memory loss. They have the empathy and understanding to help your loved one at their most critical moments, and they can address symptoms such as depression, irritation, anger and wandering. You can have peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in capable hands.
Seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementias often wander, so memory care communities implement extra security measures to keep them safe. Some of these safety measures include security cameras, alarms, emergency alert call systems and keypad entry.
Memory care communities typically have secured outdoor areas, letting seniors enjoy the outdoors without the risk of unsafe wandering. Along with safety measures, memory care communities generally feature a small, self-contained layout that’s easy to navigate, making it easier for seniors of all levels of memory care to explore their new homes.
