What are the Top Benefits of Memory Care?

One of the hardest questions to answer is “when should you move a loved one to a Memory Care Community?” As your loved one struggles with memory loss and other signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may have concluded it’s time to seriously consider Memory Care, for their health and safety, and your peace of mind. The decision may ultimately be made because of some of the top benefits of Memory Care, which include:

• Access to specialized, long-term care designed for those living with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of progressive-degenerative dementia.
• Support day and night, 24/7, and improved physical safety and security.
• Fulfilling activities and opportunities to socialize.

Referah is here to walk you through many of the top benefits of Memory Care so you can make an informed decision and choose the right community for your loved one.

What Does Memory Care Provide? The Top 8 Benefits

When you move a loved one to a Memory Care Community, it’s actually a positive, life-enriching and rewarding step for yourself as a caregiver and for them. Let’s take a look at the eight major benefits of Memory Care. This is by no means an all-inclusive list, but it’s a great start to help you understand the benefits your loved one can and should receive when they enter a Memory Care Community.

Specialized Services

While the type and scope of services will vary, many Memory Care Communities offer unique treatments specifically designed for residents living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. These locations are staffed with trained professionals who have a deep and respectful understanding of the challenges your loved one may face, and the unique ways in which Alzheimer’s and dementia presents in every person.

When your loved one lives in a Memory Care Community, or a Memory Care Neighborhood within an Assisted Living Community, they will receive personalized attention geared to their specific needs.

24/7 Support

As difficult as it might be to accept, we know dementia is a progressive condition that will continue over time. Memory Care Communities offer full-time support and security at all hours of the day and night, with trained professionals like Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, or other highly trained staff members always on hand to offer support.

If your loved one is still at home, perhaps living alone, you may be constantly worried about their safety and security. These concerns are immediately alleviated when they’re staying in a Memory Care Community.

Independence

For those unfamiliar with Memory Care, it may seem that moving to this kind of community means sacrificing the independence of living at home—but the opposite is true. You or your loved one will no longer have to worry about daily housekeeping, repairs, lawn maintenance, and the ongoing chores associated with renting or home ownership. Memory Care residents are able to live fuller, more enriched lives. They are able to participate in activities, welcome visitors, and engage in hobbies without these daily concerns.

Physical Safety

More than half of all individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of advanced memory loss will wander off at least once. If a loved one in need of Memory Care lives in a specialized community, steps are in place to prevent this from happening. Staff members will continually check on your loved one to make sure they are safe, and measures are taken to prevent wandering; many properties have elevators and doors with coded locks.

Specialized Programs

Memory Care Communities provide programs designed to meet the specific needs of residents, tailored to their interests, preferences and capabilities. It’s important for those with memory loss to exercise their minds as well as their bodies. Locations that specialize in Memory Care work hard to create meaningful, engaging, and rewarding activities designed to stimulate the mind. This helps to tackle boredom and frustration, and alleviate a common sense of helplessness. It also increases activity levels in residents who might otherwise feel disconnected from the world.

Socialization

In addition to the aforementioned specialized programs, the very fact that your loved one is living in a Memory Care Community means they will wake up every morning with instant access to many social opportunities they would never have if they were living at home. Residents can benefit from interaction with staff and other residents with similar interests. An active social life is a major component of cognitive health, but while “company” is always available, it is never forced on an individual. If they’re having a day when they’d prefer to be largely left alone, that’s fine too! Staff will still be readily available to check in on them and make sure they are doing well.

Personalized Care

Memory Care Communities are staffed with people who will get to know your loved one and spend time with them on a daily basis. This ensures residents will benefit from individualized care tailored to their specific wants and needs. Memory Care Communities also provide diet and wellness programs, and staff will make sure your loved one is eating well and receiving assistance (if necessary) at mealtimes. In some cases, dining teams will be able to provide specific menus, e.g., kosher meals and dairy-free options.

Relief for Family and Friends

When your loved one is struggling with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you often sacrifice social time in favor of taking care of their needs, from housekeeping to cooking, administering medication, and making sure they’re safe. When your loved one is in a Memory Care Community, you can return to the close relationship you once had, and spend your visits socializing without the stress of being their primary caregiver. Of course, families can still be involved in the planning of their loved one’s care, but you’ll no longer have to worry about the day-to-day duties of caregiving. This will lift a tremendous burden from your shoulders, physically and emotionally.

Memory Care Requirements

Memory Care is different from Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Facilities. Each care type offers a unique set of specific activities, amenities, and care options. Additionally, the financial structures for each type of care may vary. You can learn more about how Memory Care is financed in our next article, “What Does Memory Care Cost?”

Find a Memory Care Community Near You

Memory Care Communities can be extremely beneficial for residents and their families and friends. If specialized care in a welcoming environment is the next step, Referah can provide assistance with locating the right community for your loved one. Find a local Memory Care Community near you with our easy-to-use search tool.