Individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other forms of memory deficiencies do not typically need memory care in the early stages if they are able to live independently. As the symptoms progress and they experience further cognitive decline, you or your loved one could benefit from memory care. Research has shown that enlisting the help of memory care communities for individuals with memory deficiencies sooner than later can bring better outcomes physically, mentally, and emotionally. Identify the signs indicating you need memory care.
Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, or Other Memory Deficiency Related Diagnosis
Occasional forgetfulness of where you left your phone is not the same as a dementia-related condition diagnosis. When you routinely forget important dates, names, directions to familiar places and more, you would need an appointment with your doctor. If you are diagnosed with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other memory-related conditions, you can start to consider memory care.
In the beginning stages of memory deficiency conditions, it is usually acceptable for individuals to live at home as long as there are no serious safety issues. However, as symptoms progress and memory abilities decline, it can be increasingly difficult for you or your loved one to live independently. The pressure on the caregiver to ensure the safety of the affected individual has also increased immensely, as the individual can start to wander and not be aware of possible safety risks, such as when dealing with fire or electricity. This would be the time to transition to memory care before more dangerous symptoms of dementia emerge.
Decline in Overall Health
As memory loss kicks in, your loved one might start to forget important daily tasks, such as eating, taking medication and maintaining personal hygiene. Forgetting these tasks can take a toll on their health and overall well-being. Other conditions that may also affect your loved one include Sundowner’s syndrome and insomnia.
If your loved one has memory deficiencies, they are more prone to being injured when they are alone. They may also forget how to ask for help, such as calling 911. When these instances occur, the memory care environment will be a safer environment for your loved one with 24-hour professional care, supervision and medical assistance.
Lack of Social Life
Your loved one can have little to no social life if they are affected by dementia. A lack of social life can lead to loneliness, social isolation and depression.
Memory care communities can integrate socialization back into the life of your loved one. SummerHouse Vista Shores has a unique, holistic approach to memory care that aims to provide good experiences in all aspects of our residents’ life. Our memory care team members are specially trained to plan activities that are all-inclusive, for residents of different cognitive abilities to participate. These purpose-driven group activities encourage social interactions between the residents, helping them to cultivate friendships and a sense of belonging.
Person-Centered Memory Care at SummerHouse Vista Shores
If you or your loved one is making the decision to move to memory care, SummerHouse Vista Shores is here to help. Every day, we observe how, with the right care, residents with memory-related disorders, may live happier, healthier lives. We provide varying levels of memory care catered to the specific needs of your loved one.
