According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s National Population projects, over 87.9 million Americans will be above 65 by 2050, with 18.9 million being over 85. Already 64% of people 65 and older in nursing homes have Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. The AARP further estimates that approximately 70% of older adults will require long-term services at some point in their life.
Seniors living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia may require a specific level of care. The natural cognitive decline means that they need round-the-clock monitoring, which may be possible during the early stages. Far often than not, it reaches a point where families have to think of memory care facilities to provide the care that they require.
What Makes Memory Care Facilities Different?
Older adults in luxury assisted living homes manage their own time with more freedom and independence. The caregivers notify the residents of the different meal times and activities during the day, and it is the senior’s responsibility to show up.
For memory care, the staff follows up with every resident to ensure that they are going for their meals and the socialization activities. As the disease progresses, the residents participate in activities purposefully designed to maintain or improve their cognitive function.
Here are five reasons why you should consider memory care for your loved one.
1. Trained and Qualified Staff
The caregivers and staff at memory care facilities in Tucson receive continuous training on the best practices for handling patients with cognitive issues. Handling dementia patients requires a systemic approach to reduce agitation and anxiety triggers. The staff receives training on diffusing potential aggravating situations during socialization, meal times, and personal care.
2. Cognitive Therapies
Memory care facilities residents enjoy full on-site medical care from a variety of resident professionals. The nursing staff keeps track of their medical and memory condition, ensuring they take their prescribed medication. Additionally, the residents access memory care activities that help stimulate their frontal cortex, the area in the brain associated with memory and memory storage. The facilities can help mitigate the effects of dementia.
3. Guaranteed Safety and Security
60% of dementia patients tend to ‘wander,’ making it risky for them in a home setting. Memory care facilities are developed with the residents in mind, with alarms on doors, enclosed outdoor spaces, and digital braces that staff can use to trace their movement. The design and layout of the facility also reduce the risk of overstimulation during a memory lapse that can cause disorientation.
4. Customized and Personalized Care
No two Alzheimer’s or dementia disease progression is the same. Moving to a memory care facility or a skilled nursing facility enables your loved ones to receive the level of care that they need. All routines and activities are carefully crafted around the individual resident’s needs.
5. Improved Social Engagement
A major concern for memory care patients is isolation and loneliness, which can worsen dementia and other conditions such as depression. Placing your parent in a memory care facility in Tucson allows they to interact with other peers through enrichment classes and on-site excursion that can help improve their cognitive function.
Dedicated memory care is a necessity for older persons living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Memory care facilities specialize in offering care to patients with cognitive issues. To discuss your loved one’s specific needs, reach out to Via Elegante.
