Knowing when it’s time to get help for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can be challenging. Many families struggle to care for the emotional and physical needs of a loved one with dementia, and they don’t always know when or how to ask for help. Recognizing when it’s time for memory care is an emotional, confusing, and crucial family decision that is often put off until it is a crisis.
Memory care communities such as Seasons Memory Largo and Seasons Belleair in Clearwater, Florida, offer a structured environment in a community with planned activities and engaging programs designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
To help you determine when it’s time for memory care, read on to discuss some key indicators.
Safety concerns
Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are progressive diseases, and as they progress, people can be more at risk of dangers including wandering, injuries from falls, forgetfulness about safety practices such as locking doors or leaving appliances on.
Before your loved one’s safety is in jeopardy is the best time to seek out a memory care community. Memory care communities offer enhanced safety features explicitly designed for older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
Difficulty with personal care
Struggling with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting is one of the primary indicators that memory care is needed. Memory care communities help residents with their daily hygiene and grooming, plus medication management, housekeeping, and laundry services.
Behavioral changes
Alzheimer’s disease and some forms of dementia bring with them behavioral changes such as sundowning, aggression, increased agitation, and sudden or uncharacteristic mood swings that can indicate that a loved one requires specialized memory care.
Memory care staff are educated and trained in the last memory care treatments that can help people with cognitive decline.
Learn more about memory care:
download our free Memory Care Guide.
Signs of social isolation and loneliness
It’s common for individuals experiencing memory decline to withdraw or lose interest in social activities. This can lead to isolation and loneliness, which can lead to the decline of their physical and mental health.
According to the National Institute on Aging, research has linked social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for a variety of physical and mental conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, anxiety, and depression.
Memory care communities keep residents busy with a full calendar of engaging activities, fun outings, and special events.
Caregiver burnout
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia can be physically and emotionally draining, especially as the condition progresses. It’s not uncommon for caregivers to experience extreme fatigue, anxiety, and a decline in their health.
Memory care communities can take the pressure off family members, giving them time to rest and enjoy spending time with their loved ones without the pressures of caregiving.
Wrap up
Understanding and acknowledging the limitations of at-home care and recognizing the needs of a loved one with dementia is sobering. It’s a difficult decision that requires empathy, honesty, and a focus on the best interests of your loved one.
Recognizing the signs that a loved one needs memory care is the first step in ensuring your loved one receives customized care in a compassionate, safe, and supportive environment.
If you have questions about the benefits of memory care, contact the Seasons Senior Living team. Learn more about memory care: download our free Memory Care Guide.
