Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 6 million Americans, so many families have firsthand experience with memory-related illnesses. When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a related condition, it can be an incredibly stressful time. The changes that come with dementia are often frightening and frustrating, both for the person who’s diagnosed and for their family members.
But you don’t have to endure these changes alone! There are many great resources available for people living with memory loss. Memory care facilities provide personalized care for seniors with cognitive impairments.
These facilities offer a secure environment where residents can receive the medical care and emotional support they need. But it’s understandable if you’re skeptical of memory care facilities. The idea of placing your loved one in an unfamiliar place can be overwhelming.
But don’t worry! We’ve done all the research for you, so you can make an informed decision about where to place your loved one. Here are seven benefits of memory care facilities.
1. 24/7 Care
Staff is available around the clock to assist your loved one with their needs, whether they’re physical or emotional. These skilled nurses are trained to the highest level of competency to help your relative live a full and happy life.
They will assist with daily living activities like bathing, as well as medication management. You’ll never have to worry about your relatives getting help with late-night walks to the restroom or morning oatmeal. There won’t be a minute in the day when your loved one isn’t being watched over by a trained professional.
2. Individualized Plans
There are over 100 forms of dementia, and the medical staff at memory care facilities are well aware of this. They know each person has a unique condition and set of symptoms, so they work hard to create an individualized plan for every resident. This includes choosing activities that are right for your loved one’s condition and stage of life, as well as determining when to administer medication.
Each person receives exactly what they need to maintain their health while living there.
3. Staff-to-Resident Ratio
A high staff-to-resident ratio makes it possible for each resident to get the individual attention they need. If you’re considering a memory care facility, ask how many people are on staff and what their responsibilities are. The best facilities will have an adequate number of medical staff that can provide immediate help if a resident needs it.
Across US senior living facilities, there is an average of 1 personal care assistant for every 23 seniors. However, there aren’t many resources available that can tell you what a good ratio is for memory care.
There is no magic formula for determining the proper nurse-to-resident ratio. Memory care facilities hire enough nurses so that your loved one’s needs will always be met.
4. Activities
One of the most essential benefits of memory care facilities is that residents get plenty of opportunities for social interaction. Studies have shown that communication has many important effects on mental health and cognitive function.
Socializing helps improve memory recall by forcing you to focus on what other people say instead of letting your mind wander onto unrelated topics. This kind of thinking strengthens the neural pathways in the brain.
So while your loved one is having conversations with their peers during lunch or in an art class, their brains are being stimulated in a way that makes it easier for them to recall information.
Senior exercise is also great for improving cognitive function. A memory care facility provides residents with many opportunities to exercise, improve their blood circulation, and increase their lung capacity. This helps them stay fit, which improves the brain’s ability to process information.
5. Independence
Many memory care facilities provide your loved one with their own room. This allows them to be more independent and comfortable. They have their own space, so they can decorate it however they want and bring in items that are important to them.
It helps them feel like they still have a say in their lives, even though there are others around who are taking care of them. With this independence comes responsibility. Your loved one will take care of themselves and the things around them, which helps their self-esteem and confidence.
The facility may have a schedule, but your loved one can make their own choices about what they do during the day. They can eat when they’re hungry and take naps whenever they need them.
The nurses won’t ever force your loved one to take care of themselves, but they will encourage them. They’ll show them how to do things like tie their shoes and brush their hair. This gives residents a sense of accomplishment.
And even though they have their independence, nurses will always be available to assist with any tasks they can’t handle on their own.
6. Security
The staff at memory care facilities can handle any situation, from medical emergencies to behavioral issues. They have access to security cameras and alarms in case of an emergency.
The building is protected by various locks on the doors and windows. Also, staff members always monitor entryways.
Your loved one will always have a sense of security in the care center, knowing that they’re well protected.
7. Medical Care
Memory care facilities provide 24-hour nursing care and dietary needs that help residents maintain their health and well-being. The staff at these facilities also handle medical problems that arise. There are emergency response plans in place for immediate care when residents require it.
The staff will ensure that residents take their medications regularly and on time, which is essential for preventing health problems.
Choose Memory Care Facilities With a Reputation for Quality
Memory care facilities are all about providing a safe, comfortable, and stimulating environment for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease and other types of memory loss. They’re staffed with compassionate people who understand the needs of residents with dementia and take great pride in providing them with a nurturing place to live.
That’s what we offer at Royal Garden Board and Care Homes—a warm, friendly environment where seniors can thrive and enjoy life to the fullest. Contact us today for a complimentary tour of our beautiful facility and learn more about the care we provide.