As people age, memory-related problems occur, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Many affected seniors will slowly feel the life-changing effects. As much as family members try to provide care for them, there will come a time when professional support becomes necessary. This is especially true with diminished comfort, safety, and quality of life. This is where exploring options like senior living in Douglasville GA, can help ease the burden on both the seniors and their families.

What is Memory Care?

This is a specialised service of senior living that is designed to help individuals with memory-related conditions. A facility provides people with declining cognition with a structured environment that caters to their needs. They hire staff trained and knowledgeable in dementia care. Their activities and therapies are geared towards the stimulation of cognitive functions. More importantly, they ensure the safety of seniors living in their facility.

Signs That It’s Time for Memory Care 

There are certain signs that will tell you if a loved one needs professional memory care.

• Forgetfulness. They’re more forgetful than usual and can’t remember names, certain tasks, or dates.
• Wandering and getting lost. They leave home and do not remember how to return.
• Behavioural changes. Seniors with dementia are prone to aggression, mood swings, and confusion. This is understandable, considering their declining cognitive function.
• Poor hygiene and nutrition. Beyond forgetting names and tasks, seniors may also forget to eat or bathe.
• Carer stress. If you’re experiencing the overwhelming effect of caring for a senior with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may want to consider professional help.

If a senior is showing any of these signs, it may be time for them to move to a memory care facility. 

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Memory Care Facility

You want to ensure that a loved one gets the care and support they need. So ask the following questions before you make a decision:

What are the qualifications of the staff and the training they received?

It’s important that the carers have experience in dementia care and are trained to provide optimal support. If they receive ongoing training, the facility is worth considering.

What safety measures are implemented?

Because seniors with dementia tend to wander and get lost, the facility must have security and safety features in place. Check if their entrances are secured and that there are tools to prevent falls.

What personalised care plans do they provide?

Different seniors have different needs. Each resident must receive a care plan designed specifically for them.

Other key factors to consider are engagement and activities, medical support, and family involvement.

A memory care facility is beneficial for a senior with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Deciding on whether or not to sign up for it, however, is a huge step. Consult with experts at Serenity Empire Senior Living to help you make an informed decision.