Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are more common than you may think. In fact, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in ten people over the age of 65 have some form of dementia. And while there is no cure for this debilitating disease, there are ways to manage it and make life more manageable for both the person living with dementia and their caregivers.
What is Dementia and What are the Symptoms?
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability due to disease or injury. This can include memory loss, difficulties with problem solving, and changes in mood or behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all cases.
The symptoms of dementia can be difficult for not just the person with dementia but for family members as well. In fact, caregivers of people with dementia often report feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and even depressed. This is where memory care communities come in.
What is Memory Care?
Memory care is a type of long-term care that specializes in the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Memory care communities are designed to meet the unique needs of those living with dementia, providing them with a safe and secure environment while also offering support and assistance with activities of daily living.
Memory care communities are designed to meet the unique needs of those living with dementia, providing them with a safe and secure environment while also offering support and assistance with activities of daily living.
What are the Challenges of Caring for Someone with Dementia?
Trying to care for a loved one who suffers from dementia can be an incredibly difficult and challenging experience. Many family caregivers find themselves feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and even depressed. One of the most difficult decisions to face is knowing when you can no longer give your loved one the appropriate care they need to thrive. You may feel you are abandoning your loved one, however deciding to do what’s best for them, and ultimately what will provide them with the best quality of life, is one of the most important decisions you can make.
What are the Benefits of Transferring a Loved One with Dementia to a Memory Care Community?
There are many benefits to memory care, both for the person with dementia and their caregivers. Memory care communities offer a safe and secure environment for those living with dementia while also providing support and assistance with activities of daily living. In addition, some memory care communities, such as Salize, Avanti Senior Living’s memory support program, offers a holistic approach to care, which includes things like cognitive stimulation and social activities. This holistic approach has been shown to slow down the progression of dementia and improve quality of life for those living with the disease.
Memory care communities offer a wide range of benefits for both those living with dementia and their caregivers. Some of the most common benefits include:
• A safe and secure environment
• Support and assistance with activities of daily living
• 24 hour supervision and care
• Transportation
• Medication management
• Social engagement
Final Thoughts
Memory care is the new standard of living for those with dementia. With the support of a memory care community, people with dementia can live happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. If you are a caregiver for someone with dementia, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. If you have a loved one who suffers from dementia, consider a memory care community to give them the best possible quality of life.
There are many resources available to support you and your loved one through this difficult journey. Let Avanti Senior Living’s team of experts help you navigate this new chapter in your life. Visit us online or give us a call today to learn more about our memory care services.
