Options for Families With Love Ones Who Have Memory Issues:
As our population continues to age, the needs and demands for care continue to become more pronounced, and necessary. Every individual/family tells us that “I want to stay living in “my home” as long as I possibly can.” Our initial question/response is then, “what do you need to do this”?
At ComForCare Home Care, and Just Like Home Adult Day Center, our focus is keeping individuals independent, but most important – SAFE! Whether we are providing care for individuals in their homes, or oversight in our Adult Day Center (our both for many families), our focus is keeping individuals active, engaged, healthy, and safe.
As every individual and every situation is different, the reality of all of this is that there is not a 100% concrete one size fits all approach or an answer for which avenue is best. Every individual has different factors to consider, such as: care needs, dementia situation, family and friend support options, finances, location, etc… However, whether it is 1-on-1 in-home care (www.westbend.comforcare.com), the group setting of Adult Day Care (www.JustLikeHomeAdultDayCenter.com), or the advanced care needs of a Memory Care facility, the total picture must be explored.
Memory care is a specialized type of senior living that provides comprehensive support and care for individuals with memory loss and cognitive impairment. Memory care can be an ideal option for seniors who have dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other forms of memory impairment, and do not have the means for other care options. Determining when it is time for a loved one to move into memory care, however, can be a difficult decision. In this article, we’ll discuss some key factors to consider when deciding if memory care is the right choice.
- Safety Concerns: One of the primary reasons to consider memory care is safety. Seniors with memory loss may wander, become lost, forget to turn off appliances or leave the stove on, or experience other safety hazards. If your loved one has a history of falls, getting lost, or other safety concerns related to memory loss, memory care may be necessary to ensure their safety.
- Increased Care Needs: As dementia or Alzheimer’s disease progresses, seniors may require more care than family members or in-home caregivers can provide. This can include assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and toileting. Seniors may also require medication management, specialized diets, or other medical interventions that memory care can provide.
- Decreased Quality of Life: Memory loss can have a significant impact on a senior’s quality of life. Seniors with memory loss may feel isolated, lonely, and depressed. They may also experience behavioral changes, such as aggression or agitation. If you notice that your loved one’s quality of life is declining, memory care can provide them with socialization opportunities, access to engaging activities, and a supportive environment.
- Caregiver Stress: Caring for a loved one with memory loss can be incredibly challenging, both physically and emotionally. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed, stressed, and burnt out. If you’re experiencing caregiver stress or noticing that your loved one’s caregiver is struggling
Going hand-in-hand with what to look for, are also the benefits! Moving to a memory care home can have several benefits for older adults who may require more care and support than they can receive in their own homes. Here are some potential benefits:
- Access to 24/7 Care: Memory care homes provide round-the-clock care and supervision from trained healthcare professionals, including nurses and aides. This can be especially beneficial for older adults who require assistance with daily living activities, medication management, or medical treatments.
- Social Interaction: Memory care homes typically will offer opportunities for residents to socialize with peers and participate in group activities, such as games, exercise programs, and outings. This can help prevent social isolation and loneliness, which can negatively impact mental health and well-being.
- Nutritious Meals: Memory care homes offer balanced, nutritious meals and snacks to residents, which can be important for older adults who may have difficulty preparing meals on their own or have specific dietary needs.
- Safety and Security: Memory care homes are designed to provide a safe and secure environment for residents, with features such as emergency call systems, secure entrances and exits, and trained staff who can respond to emergencies quickly.
- Peace of Mind for Family Members: Moving to a memory care home can provide peace of mind for family members who may be concerned about their loved one’s safety and well-being. Knowing that their loved one is receiving quality care and support can alleviate some of the stress and worry that comes with being a caregiver.
Other factors that should be considered are:
- Cost: As Memory Care facilities provide 24/7 private living situations, food and beverages, medication management, and caregiver assistance, the costs for memory care can be substantial. If there are other support options, and 24/7 care is not a necessity, the costs for Adult Day Care and 1-on-1 In-Home Care can be substantially less.
- Availability: Oftentimes, families look for Memory Care facilities immediately after a “crisis” situation has occurred. The facility of choice may not have a room available, and families may be required to accept placement in a secondary facility because of this. Decisions on “the right” facility need to be explored prior to the crisis. You can then be placed on a waiting list, and accepting placement can be determined as availability becomes available.
For more information about ComForCare Home Care of Just Like Home Adult Day Center, please call 262-674-1515.
“Just Like Home” senior day center:
Just Like Home Adult Day Center is intended to be just that…Just Like Home. Located in Jackson, WI, we are open from 7:00 am – 5:00 pm.
This facility will offer individuals and families the comfort of knowing that their loved one is supervised and safe, but are also staying Socially, Mentally, and Physically active.
Call today with any questions or to book a tour of our new facility and see why we are the best option for senior day care.
Just Like Home
W218 N17483 Delaney Court
Jackson, WI 53037
Phone: (262) 423-4411
Email: dave.morbeck@comforcare.com
Google Business Profile: https://just-like-home-adult-day-senior-center.business.site
Location: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=16230388066368867067
G-Site: https://sites.google.com/view/just-like-home
More Resources: