For the more than 15 million family members who are caregivers to a loved one with dementia, there will come a time when their loved one’s needs will be greater than they can handle. At this point, your loved one will need around-the-clock care in a community that provides Memory Care. However, making the choice can be confusing and stressful for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is navigating the differences between the types of communities.
“There are many different types of senior communities that offer memory support, but there’s a real difference when you choose a community that has been specifically designed to offer care to those with cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia,” says Jayne Sallerson, President & Chief Operating Officer of Charter Senior Living. “The specialized lifestyle available in these types of communities is incredibly beneficial to those living with dementia and provides peace of mind for family members, who know that their loved one is happy, healthy and well cared for.”
What To Expect From a Memory Care Community
You might be wondering what makes senior living communities, especially those specializing in dementia care and Alzheimer’s disease like Charter Senior Living of Murray, such an excellent choice for your loved one. These communities offer a multitude of advantages, ensuring a high quality of life for individuals living with dementia. Explore the distinctive features of Memory Care-specific communities:
Round-the-Clock Professional Support
Dementia is a progressive condition, and as your loved one’s health and abilities change, they’ll require continuous care. Memory Care communities provide 24/7 support, with staff available day and night to assist residents. These communities often maintain a high caregiver-to-resident ratio, and staff members are dedicated to specific Memory Care residents, fostering familiarity and providing compassionate care.
Tailored Specialized Care
Memory Care Assisted Living communities understand that exceptional care begins with a deep understanding of each individual – their life story, personal history, preferences and aspirations. Staff members invest the time to get to know residents, enabling them to create therapies, experiences and interactions designed specifically for each person. This personalized approach enhances residents’ quality of life, making them feel cherished, valued, and well cared for.
Dementia-Specific Programming
People with dementia desire and benefit from meaningful engagement in activities and events, just like anyone else. Memory Care communities offer a rich calendar of events filled with specialized programming that caters to residents’ interests and level of care. These activities alleviate boredom, increase engagement, boost happiness, and help reduce challenging behaviors that can cause stress and discomfort. Simultaneously, these programs aim to promote cognitive function and overall well-being. Engaging the mind and body can help slow the progression of dementia.
Meaningful Socialization
Individuals with memory loss may have limited options for socialization when living at home. Memory Care communities facilitate regular interactions between residents, caregivers and staff. Maintaining an active social life is crucial for cognitive and emotional well-being, and easy access to social opportunities greatly enhances residents’ overall sense of well-being.
Compassionate Assistance From Trained Caregivers
People with dementia require assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and other essential tasks. Dementia caregivers are trained to provide dignified and professional care to individuals with cognitive challenges. They also offer essential emotional and social support, not only to those with dementia but also to their family members.
Balanced, Nutritious Diet
Dementia care focuses on holistic well-being, including dietary needs. Individuals with dementia may struggle to maintain a healthy diet, and family members often face challenges in ensuring proper nutrition. Memory Care communities offer healthy, well-balanced meals and provide any necessary assistance. Their dining teams create diverse menus rich in nutritional elements, ensuring delicious and appealing options.
Restoring Family Bonds
Perhaps the most significant benefit of memory support is that it allows family members to reclaim their roles as spouses, children and friends. Visiting a loved one in a Memory Care community provides an opportunity to enjoy quality time together, free from the stress, planning and fatigue of caregiving responsibilities. These relationships can be nurtured and deepened, creating meaningful moments that will be cherished for a lifetime.
What Is the Difference Between Memory Care and Dementia Care?
Understanding the difference between Memory Care and dementia care is crucial when seeking the right level of care for your loved one. Memory Care is a subset of dementia care, specifically designed for individuals with memory-related conditions.
Memory Care, such as what is offered at Charter Senior Living of Murray , is a specialized form of dementia care designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other memory-related disorders. Memory Care communities provide a secure and structured environment, focusing on the unique needs of residents with memory impairment. They offer a range of services, including assistance with daily living activities, cognitive stimulation, and a variety of therapeutic activities tailored to Memory Care.
Dementia care is a broader term that encompasses all forms of care for individuals with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. This care can be provided in various settings, such as in-home care, Assisted Living, or Memory Care communities.
What To Look For in a Memory Care Community
Choosing the right Memory Care community is a crucial decision. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating potential options:
- Specialization and Training: Ensure that the staff is trained in Memory Care and has experience with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related disorders. Inquire about their training and qualifications.
- Safety Measures: Look for a secure and safe environment that prevents wandering and offers emergency response systems.
- Structured Activities: Check if the community provides a well-rounded program of activities aimed at cognitive stimulation, physical exercise, and social engagement.
- Staff-to-Resident Ratio: Evaluate the staff-to-resident ratio to ensure that residents receive the attention and care they need.
- Nutrition and Dining: Inquire about the quality of meals and the community’s ability to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.
- Family Support: Explore the resources and support offered to families, including educational programs and communication with staff.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews, seek recommendations from other families, and visit the community to assess its environment and atmosphere.
- Licensing and Certification: Ensure that the community is licensed, certified, and compliant with state regulations.
By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting a Memory Care community that best meets the needs of your loved one with dementia. At Charter Senior Living of Murray, we are proud to offer our exclusive Flourish℠ Memory Care Program that addresses the unique needs of residents living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Navigating Memory Care With Charter Senior Living of Murray
If you think it’s time for Memory Care for your loved one, give us a call at 270.238.0301 to learn more about our community or schedule a tour. Charter Senior Living is a caring and compassionate leader within the senior living industry and manages more than 40 senior living communities throughout the U.S. Charter’s attention and support extend to every community, including right here in Murray, KY