When looking into memory care centers for a spouse or loved one, you may be confused as to all of the choices and options you have available to you. You want to make the right decision, and understand the environment in which you will be leaving your family member. You may feel guilty, you may feel anxiety – but learning more about what day-to-day life in memory care is like will help to have confidence in your decision.
Even if an individual requires memory care, their personal growth and development should not be considered over. Memory care centers strive to provide the very best quality of life for residents and their families. Here is more information for your consideration.
What Happens in Memory Care
Safety is Paramount: Memory care centers are designed for resident safety, comfort, and well-being. The actual architectural plan is set up to prevent wandering, minimize confusion, and prevent injury or harm. Familiar landmarks, large signage, and even paint colors on the walls all help a resident “find their way” and have a sense of confidence and accomplishment. Locked external doors make sure your loved one cannot accidentally exit the premises unnoticed.
A Routine is in Place: For memory care patients, routines can be the best source of comfort. Performing an activity regularly, whether cognitive or physical, helps to increase the likelihood of losing the ability to perform that task. Repeated activities with familiar caregivers can increase self-confidence on a daily basis.
The Team is Specially Trained and Ever-Present: Caring for a memory care patient is a 24-hour job, which is why it is often too overwhelming for loved ones. At memory care centers, the patient has the benefit of professional caregivers on-site and on-duty around the clock. Someone is always there and ready to respond if a situation arises.
Familiar Settings Provide Peace of Mind: Assisting a person with dementia or Alzheimer’s to have a sense of familiarity is crucial for their quality of life. Memory care centers provide a feeling of home, absent the day-to-day stressors and disruptions. Memory care is completely focused on helping each resident feel secure and safe. Their spaces are designed to be comfortable, inviting, and personal.
Good Nutrition and Wellness are Key: Eating properly can be difficult for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia – too many options, changes in taste and smell, and distractions can be challenging. In memory care centers, meals are generally served in a quiet, serene dining area with simplistic settings and soothing colors and decor. Caregivers are close by to help and to make sure that the wellness of mind, body, and spirit connected to diet takes place.
You are Free to Connect: Caring for a loved one with dementia at home can be a rigorous and exhausting job. It can discourage even the strongest and most well-intentioned caregiver. Because memory care centers offer a specially trained care team who takes care of their treatment needs, you can revert to simply being their spouse, or daughter, or friend. That means that not only is their quality of life protected, but so is yours.
At A Banyan Residence, we take great pride in providing a warm, welcoming, safe and professional environment for our residents. If you are looking for a memory care facility in the Villages, we invite you to visit, take a tour, and ask any questions you have. We are here to help.
