Is memory care right for your loved one? Many people with memory impairments like Alzheimers or dementia can benefit from moving to memory care homes. Here are just 7 of the potential benefits of memory care.
- Specialized memory care
Individuals with memory impairment need different care than others in their age group. That is why memory care homes exist: Assisted living cannot always provide the right kind of care for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Specific dementia care facilities cater to the needs of those with memory impairments. They provide assistance with the tasks and aspects of daily life that are most challenging to those with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
- Safe and secure environment
Wandering behaviors are common for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and can be particularly concerning for loved ones. In good memory care communities, the environment is secure, with locked doors and attentive caretakers to prevent wandering. Knowing their loved one is safe is one of the biggest memory care benefits for many people.
- Socialization for Alzheimer’s and dementia
If your loved one is living at home, they may not be getting enough social interaction. Planning social events for a loved one with dementia can be challenging. But in a memory care home, residents will be living around a number of other residents they can interact with on a regular basis. They’ll be able to socialize with the nurses, social workers, and their fellow residents consistently during day-to-day life. Plus, the best memory care facilities also plan social activities for residents, like games or group activities.
- Cognitive stimulation
In addition to socialization, it is important for people in memory care to stay cognitively active as well. There’s a large body of research to support that stimulating the brain can help stave off cognitive decline.
Memory care facilities are specially equipped to be able to offer the appropriate level of cognitive stimulation. Staff members arrange activities like art projects and puzzles to encourage residents to stimulate their brains.
- Outings and life enrichment
The best memory care homes offer so much more than just meeting residents’ basic needs. Planned outings and life enrichment activities are also a normal part of life, and help to bring joy and purpose to many residents. Whether they are taking trips to the local park or a cafe for lunch, these outings provide variety and exciting experiences for memory care home residents.
- Music and live performances
Listening to music is tons of fun, and music also has memory benefits! Residents in memory care communities have the chance to listen to music in a variety of forms. They may receive personalized playlists through the Music & Memories program. Many memory care homes also bring in live performers to sing for residents. All of these experiences with music can boost mood and even improve cognition for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia!
- Decreased family burden
Last but certainly not least is the relief a memory care home can provide for loved ones who are overwhelmed by being full-time caretakers. While caring for your loved one as they age can be seen as an act of love, it can also be incredibly time-consuming and not possible for many people. By moving your loved one into a memory care facility where they will be cared for and supported, you are able to focus on your relationship with them.
For all of these reasons and many more, memory care can be the best options for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. There are many benefits of memory care, especially in homes that put their residents first and provide personalized care, like Dolan.
