Today, memory loss affects over 40% of people aged 65 or older in the USA alone. In our experience, illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and mild cognitive impairment can be difficult for patients and their caretakers. Here are a few reasons why a memory care community can benefit you and your loved one.
1. Reduces Caregiver Stress
Caring for a loved one with a cognitive disability is a full-time job. From the medical assistance to the need for 24/7 supervision, it is a feat that even the most experienced caregivers would consider challenging. Not getting enough rest, assistance, or time for yourself can lead to caregiver burnout.
If you’re finding it difficult to juggle caring for your aging loved one, managing a job, and the duties of family life, know your emotional and physical well-being is just as important as your loved one’s needs. Memory care might be just what you need.
2. Can Help Slow Down Memory Loss
Memory care is a professional, intensive, and specialized treatment that helps residents maintain their quality of life and, at times, pause memory loss temporarily. Trained and qualified staff care for patients in settings specifically designed to manage memory-loss-related behavioral issues and aid memory retention.
If you have a loved one in the middle to late stages of memory loss, a memory care community may have the resources to help them remain healthy, safe, and happy.
3. Different Types To Suit Your Unique Needs
Memory care comes in several different forms so you can select a system that works best for you and your loved one. The most popular are:
- Assisted Living: Provides care geared toward individual needs, while giving the patient a sense of self-reliance with the assurance of professional care and supervision. These facilities support social interaction, regular activities, and access to 24/7 healthcare.
- Dedicated Memory CareCommunity: A secure area of an assisted living community where residents are encouraged to move freely in a safe environment designed for those with cognitive impairments, interact with other residents, and live a fulfilling life with nutritious meals, round-the-clock care, and planned activities.
- Skilled Nursing: This type of memory care is tailored to the individual’s needs and is perfect for those with chronic or complex illnesses. Skilled Nursing Memory Care Communities often provide an elevated level of care needs.
We know that choosing a suitable memory care community can initially seem like a daunting task. If you’d like to learn more about how we can help your loved one live a comfortable and independent life, get in touch with Dellwood Gardens today.