In the early stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, most people can live and be safely cared for at home by family or professional caregivers, or in an assisted living residence.
A move to memory care may be prompted by a change in health or cognition that is unsafe or unhealthy for the person living with dementia or their primary care partner.
Memory Care is specifically designed to provide a safe, secure, supportive living environment, be it a stand-alone community or a separate unit within assisted living or a CCRC or Life Plan community. Memory care communities provide 24/7 care for individuals living with memory or other cognitive changes such as Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Staff also assist with activities of daily living, medication management, and meals, just like in assisted living, but are specially trained to support individuals living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Staff provide regular routines, added structure, and extra assistance for those with middle stage to advanced dementia. Staff also offer social engagement and life enrichment activities.
While units or communities are often secure to protect residents, many offer enclosed exterior spaces for walking, access to greenspaces, gardening activities, fresh air, and sunshine. Others have circular interior walkways with supportive handrails, and windows offering comforting views of nature.
How do you choose the right community?
Picking the best environment is important. It can also be daunting. And just like searching for home care and professional caregivers, an online search will provide hundreds of choices. How do you narrow down the options?
Aging Wisdom Care Management and Creative Engagement staff regularly visit clients who are residents in many different long-term care communities throughout King and Snohomish Counties. We have extensive knowledge of these communities, including assisted living, rehab and nursing home facilities, adult family homes, and specialized memory care services. We can also advise on costs and quality of care when evaluating options.
Our Care Managers also understand the more nuanced needs of a client’s well-being and enhance quality of life, and which communities would be the most supportive for your parent’s unique circumstances, goals, and personality.
This is about more than care. It’s about having an experienced partner beside you, navigating the journey with wisdom, compassion, and heart. Click here to Schedule a Get Acquainted Call today to explore how we can help.
Additional Reading
- When is It Time to Move? (Aging Wisdom blog article)
- Steps for a Successful Move to Memory Care (Aging Wisdom blog article)
- What is Memory Care? When is It Appropriate? (Aging Wisdom podcast episode)