If you or a loved one are struggling with memory challenges, it may be time to transition into a memory care community. While the prospect of uprooting can be difficult, the benefits of making a change far outweigh the drawbacks. A professional, nurturing community will promote a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle for its residents.
Read on to learn about the seven benefits of memory care communities for loved ones!
1. Access Caring Staff
When considering memory care vs assisted living, it’s important to think about the level of care needed. For seniors with dementia or other cognitive challenges, that means recognizing that extra assistance is essential.
Memory care communities offer more layers of staff support for residents. You can expect:
- A lower staff-resident ratio
- More individualized attention
- Easy access to staff
Seniors navigating memory loss and the anxiety that comes with it often need this additional support. Staff will have specialized training working with adults with dementia. And they will provide a warm and hospitable environment to help those individuals feel safe and welcome.
2. Live in a Safe Environment
Individuals in memory care communities can trust that they are in a safe space. These communities are designed with their residents in mind, meaning there are extra safety measures.
Some residents may be prone to wandering, for instance. Trackers can help prevent these individuals from moving too far. And staff will be present throughout the community to keep an eye on residents’ whereabouts.
Further, the layouts of senior communities are designed to help residents live safely. Handrails and call buttons on apartment walls enable residents to move and reach assistance when they need it.
3. Enjoy Quality Programs
The best memory care communities will offer a robust lineup of activities. These dynamic classes or events can help seniors feel engaged with their surroundings. Programming will:
- Encourage social interaction
- Show awareness of residents’ abilities
- Provide physical and mental stimulation
- Cater to limited attention spans
- Promoting healthy eating
Programming may include activities geared toward physical movement. Others may prioritize social interaction and learning. Residents can try programming as varied as music therapy or cooking classes in their communities.
Individuals in memory care may not have the focus to participate in prolonged activities. As such, they can expect activities tailored to their needs and attention spans. Residents can participate as much as they want to help maintain their independence.
4. Find Round-the-Clock Support
In senior memory care, individuals can expect to have support from well-trained staff at all hours of the day. With 24-hour supervision, residents and their families can feel comfortable knowing expert care is just a click of a button away.
If an emergency arises in the middle of the night, residents can access a trained staff member immediately. Staff members will be well-versed in lifesaving procedures. They’ll also understand how to interact with and help those experiencing memory challenges.
Staff members will review care plans for residents regularly, too. Doing this makes sure that the plan matches a resident’s current level of need. As memory impairments shift, the plan will shift with it.
5. Get Healthcare Assistance
One of the key memory care advantages is the opportunity for more personalized healthcare assistance. Memory care communities offer comprehensive support to keep residents healthier. Staff members will:
- Help manage medications
- Communicate with medical personnel and residents
- Offer nutritional guidance
The community’s trained staff will communicate with healthcare providers and residents regularly. Doing this ensures the resident’s needs are being met, and any changes are documented.
Individuals in memory care will be under more regular monitoring by trained staff. As a result, any noticeable changes can be noted and communicated quickly. Staff members can assist residents in preparing to schedule or attend appointments, as well.
Healthcare assistance also extends to the act of eating. Individuals with memory issues may not be as eager to eat as they once were. But with a serene environment and patient staff, memory care communities can create a better environment for eating.
Staff members will use proven methods to encourage residents to eat balanced diets. They’ll also accommodate residents who aren’t able to sit still and eat a more structured meal.
6. Help Families Feel Better
Choosing senior care services can be a daunting process for families. They may feel guilt for handing the responsibilities of personalized care to others. But with the right memory care community, families should feel confident in the quality of care and a sense of relief. A quality care community will:
- Communicate clearly
- Commit to training staff regularly
- Prioritize personal enrichment among residents
Families will feel included in their loved ones’ lives thanks to careful and regular communication. Perhaps more importantly, family members will find it easier to enjoy quality time with their loved ones.
During visits, the focus will be on catching up rather than providing care. When families are not feeling overwhelmed with caregiving responsibilities, the results are better for everyone. Plus, families will appreciate knowing their loved ones have access to excellent amenities.
7. Enjoy a Better Life
Ultimately, choosing memory care services can enhance the quality of life. Seniors experiencing memory care will be able to find cognitive stimulation and caring support at all hours of the day. They’ll gain a stronger sense of purpose through lively programming opportunities and healthy eating habits.
Caring staff members will cheer on residents with every small victory. They’ll also be trusted support for daily tasks that aren’t as easy as they used to be.
Every step of the journey will be done at the resident’s pace and with a sense of structure. Personalized care plans will meet residents where they are and evolve as needed. Residents will be surrounded by compassionate caregivers eager to help them flourish.
Know the Benefits of Memory Care
The benefits of memory care include round-the-clock access to trained and friendly staff. Residents also can anticipate a secure environment with activities to boost physical and mental well-being. Family members will appreciate the personalized care and healthcare monitoring, as well.
Rittenhouse Village at Michigan City is an award-winning senior community with top amenities. Our caring staff can offer the level of assistance you need to thrive. Contact us today to learn more!
