Taking care of family members that are struggling with memory loss is a difficult thing in and of itself. It can be so difficult to find the right facility, to know what your family member needs, and to be able to ensure that they are getting the best care possible. Knowing what a memory care unit is and what they are used for can greatly help you determine if your family member needs one or not.
What is a Memory Care Facility?
Memory care facilities are special medical facilities that are meant to aid those that are struggling with memory care issues and with illnesses that affect memory. These can be things like Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or extreme memory loss as the result of a head injury or other accident. These units are specially designed to meet the physical, mental, and safety measures that are needed to ensure that the patient is well cared for.
Memory care facilities are normally used for those that cannot care for themselves and that need extra mental and physical help and care. An estimated 70% of people that are age 65 or over will need some sort of long-term care in their lives, some of those will need memory care.
What Are Memory Care Facilities Like?
Every facility is different. Some offer residential neighborhoods, allowing residents to enjoy their own houses and offering community activities. These are designed for residents that are in the very early stages of dementia and are still able to care for themselves. Other facilities offer private or semi-private rooms or apartments for residents. These are more common, providing residents with privacy while ensuring that staff can closely monitor them. If you’re curious about our facility, contact us today to learn more.
Who Needs Memory Care?
Not all people that need a long-term care facility are going to be in need of a memory care unit. Memory care units are designed to help ensure that those that are in the facility are not able to get injured, to leave the premises unattended, and that they are adequately cared for. This type of care is often for those that are a danger to themselves or others as a result of their memory loss and their overall issues.
Memory care is a huge part of the lives of many families and individuals that are suffering from memory loss and that are also dealing with family members that may be suffering. The right help can mean a world of difference. They can help you to feel that your family member is well cared for and that their memory issues are going to be managed in a safe and effective manner.
Why Choose Memory Care Facilities For Your Loved One?
When it comes to ensuring the best care for your loved one with a cognitive condition, memory care facilities offer specialized services to meet their needs. Here are the key reasons to consider a memory care facility in Arizona:
Quality Service
According to the American Health Care Association, just over 14% of assisted living communities have a dementia care unit, wing, or floor designated. For those who do, they generally provide 24-hour care that is specialized and tailored towards those with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Caregivers in these communities typically have received additional training to help them better understand the specific needs of their residents.
They Provide a Variety of Services
Memory care centers recognize how important it is for individuals living with memory problems to live meaningful lives. Therefore, staff works hard to ensure that services are provided that not only improve quality of life but offer mental stimulation as well. There are many activities that engage the mind that can be found in these centers. It’s best to find a facility that is going to give your loved one a lot of engagement.
Safety Is Paramount
Safety is always the top priority for memory care centers. As a result, staff are constantly monitoring and responding to residents’ needs in a timely manner. These institutes also often have secure exits and entrances that prevent wandering, as well as other safety measures such as motion detectors or alarms. This way, you won’t have to worry about your loved one getting lost.
The Cost of Care Varies
The cost of care varies depending on the type of services provided by each institute. Many insurance plans may cover all or part of these costs. Before you decide on a facility, be sure to take your budget into account. However, in the end, the quality of care that your loved one will receive is the most important factor.
