A Guide to Memory Care for Alzheimer’s Patients

When your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you may have many questions. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, over 6.7 million Americans (age 65 and older) are living with the disease.

As the disease progresses, it could be time to think about placing your family member in a care facility. But how do you choose the right one? If you are facing this vital decision, here is a list of resources to help during this time.

You can access additional information through our other resource guides.

Alzheimer’s Robs Independence from Individuals

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks. With this disease, the brain experiences changes that affect its structure and function, per the Mayo Clinic, including the buildup of certain proteins that kill nerve cells and cause plaque.

Unfortunately, that disrupts communication between brain cells. And eventually, the brain tissue shrinks.

Many times, these symptoms develop slowly over years. Towards the end stages of the disease, it can interfere with daily tasks, memory loss, and mood or behavior. In the advanced stages of the disease, individuals often require constant care and assistance.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care is a type of long-term skilled nursing. It is designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other forms of memory impairment.

These facilities are staffed with highly trained healthcare professionals with the skills and experience to address these patients’ needs. This structured environment has set routines to help reduce stress and anxiety in patients.

Additionally, it provides them with a sense of familiarity and safety. With this therapy, individuals can maintain their independence and improve their quality of life as much as possible.

Unlike other senior care options, memory care offers a higher level of clinical care to provide for the unique needs of people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Often, these staff members have special training to handle the behavioral issues frequently seen in these diseases. They also implement measures to prevent Alzheimer’s patients from leaving or wandering around the facility.

Benefits of Memory Care for Alzheimer’s Patients

One of the benefits of memory care is the personalized care plans. They are tailored to each individual’s needs and abilities. There is a focus on medical management and assistance with daily living activities.

Another important benefit is safety and security. These facilities have secure entrances and exits, 24-hour surveillance, and alarm systems. Also, the facility’s physical layout is usually designed to be easy to navigate.

As a result, that can reduce confusion and frustration for residents.

Along with personalized care plans and safety measures, these facilities also offer a range of therapeutic activities and programs designed to stimulate the mind, maintain physical health, and enhance social interaction. These may include:

• Music and art therapy
• Pet therapy
• Exercise programs
• Cognitive therapies, such as memory games and puzzles

Additionally, these activities can help individuals maintain their cognitive abilities and improve their mood and overall well-being.

These facilities can be a valuable source of support and education for families. They can help them understand the disease and how to care for their loved ones. Many times, they also offer respite care, giving family caregivers a much-needed break.

Choosing a Memory Care Facility

If your reasoning behind reading this guide to memory care for Alzheimer’s patients is that you’re thinking about choosing a facility for your loved one, there are a few factors that you will want to consider, such as:

• Staff qualifications: Since Alzheimer’s patients have special needs, you will want to make sure that these care providers have the right qualifications, training, and skills. They should know how to manage the disease and provide the right care for their loved ones.
• Facility design: A great facility should have safe and secure spaces inside and outside the building. Along with that, they need to be clean, well-maintained, and feel comfortable for both the patients and their family members.
• Services and amenities: Many times, care extends beyond medical needs. When choosing a facility, you will want to examine its housekeeping, meal, transportation, and laundry services. Additionally, make sure to inquire about the programs and activities designed for the residents.
• Safety measures: Safety is a concern for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. You will want to check what safety measures are in place, such as secure entrances and exits, alarm systems, and 24-hour surveillance.
• Cost: Memory care can be expensive. For that reason, you need to understand the costs involved and what is included in the fees. Some facilities may have additional charges for certain services, so be sure to ask about all expenses related to your loved one’s care.

Selecting a memory care facility is a big decision. Take your time to visit multiple facilities, ask questions, and consider your loved one’s needs and preferences.

Find the Resources You Need

Whether your loved ones have just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or you need to find a memory care facility for long-term care, there are resources to help you cope during this time. Here is a list to assist with this process:

• Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is a great resource that connects families and caregivers with the services they need to care for their loved ones.
• Alzheimers.gov is a portal for resources and information related to Alzheimer’s.
• NIA Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center provides information on diagnosis, treatment, patient care, caregiver needs, long-term care, and research and clinical trials related to Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, these staff members can help you find local services in your area.
• Alzheimer’s Association is another resource that provides advice, support, and helplines for families.
• The National Institute on Aging provides resources for Alzheimer’s and related dementia care.

For many families, learning about a loved one’s diagnosis and preparing for their needs can be a heartbreaking time.

However, with these decisions, reading resources like this guide to memory care for Alzheimer’s patients and getting connected with national and local rescues to help you make the best choice for your loved one can help.