There is no “right time” for memory care. Everyone experiences the symptoms of cognitive decline differently.
The right time to transition varies for each individual, depending on the progression of their cognitive decline and their specific needs. Ignoring these signs could result in an unsafe living environment for your loved one.
Signs to look for that suggest your loved one may benefit from the support provided in memory care include:
- Declining physical and cognitive health
- Their social needs are unmet
- Safety concerns
- Caregiver burnout
Understanding Memory Care
Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care designed to meet the unique needs of individuals experiencing Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and other forms of cognitive decline.
Memory care provides important support for both residents and their families.
For residents, memory care provides a safe environment where they can receive the support they need. It also provides them with social connection, as well as with professional care, which is necessary for those whose symptoms may cause them to struggle with daily activities.
For families, the confidence that their loved one is in a safe and nurturing environment brings peace of mind and reduces the stress associated with caregiving, allowing them to focus on strengthening their bond with their loved one.
In memory care, residents can access:
- Full-time supervised care with staff trained
- Personalized care plans tailored to each resident
- A safe layout plan to help prevent wandering or injury
- Activities that help stimulate cognitive function
- Opportunities for social connections
When is the Right Time for Memory Care?
There is no “right time” for memory care that applies to everyone.
Each individual and family dynamic is different, making it necessary to reassess frequently and adapt to changing needs.
Conditions that impact cognitive function are progressive, meaning that, as the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen.
In the early stages of cognitive decline, your loved one may continue to live independently. As the disease progresses, the severity of their symptoms will increase, and the level of care that they need will evolve, signaling that they may benefit from full-time assistance provided in memory care.
For some, the need for memory care becomes apparent when daily life becomes unmanageable, both for the individual and their caregiver.
Ultimately, the decision to transition into memory care should be rooted in the safety and well-being of your loved one.
Signs It Might Be Time for Memory Care
Recognizing when to transition a loved one to memory care is a personal decision with no one-size-fits-all answer.
Declining Physical & Cognitive Health
Identifying signs of declining physical and cognitive health can be a determining factor when considering the transition to memory care. These changes signify a decreased capacity for your loved one to manage their own care safely.
Some physical changes to look for include:
- Change in appearance or body weight
- Loss of balance
- Muscle stiffness
- Chronic fatigue
- Increased body tremors
- Reduced mobility
- Wandering, increased falls, or injury
Chronic fatigue, reduced mobility, and increased tremors may indicate difficulties in performing daily living activities. Memory care caters to these needs by offering support with activities of daily living.
Signs of cognitive decline include:
- Memory lapses
- Trouble concentrating
- Shifts in behavior and mood
Memory care programs are tailored with personalized activities designed to maintain and enhance cognitive functions.
Their Social Needs are Unmet
As their cognitive abilities decline, participating in social engagement and activities can become increasingly difficult and overwhelming. Individuals may struggle with following directions, communicating with others, or understanding others, and may gradually lose interest in maintaining social connections.
This frustrating experience can trigger social withdrawal.
Maintaining social bonds and interactions is necessary for your loved one’s emotional and cognitive health. Memory care communities address this need by fostering social connections through group activities specifically designed to engage cognitive functions, allowing residents to feel connected and supported within a community environment.
Safety Concerns
The safety of your loved one is of utmost importance when considering a move to memory care. These concerns are closely linked to their cognitive and physical health.
For instance, increasing forgetfulness can lead to missed medications or incorrect dosages, which can be dangerous for your loved one’s health. Medication management in memory care confirms residents receive the correct medication and dosage at the right times.
Forgetfulness can also create significant safety risks, such as leaving appliances like irons or stoves on. Your loved one might also have unexplained bruises or cuts or start wandering.
Memory care provides a safe environment designed to prevent wandering, with open floor plans and mobility supports to minimize fall risks. Our team continuously monitors residents, prioritizing our residents’ health and safety.
Declining physical and cognitive abilities can also affect personal hygiene, potentially leading to health issues like infections, suggesting a need for full-time supervised care with activities of daily living.
Caregiver Burnout
Many families choose to be directly involved in the caregiving responsibilities of their loved ones. While this is a rewarding role, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges that come with this responsibility.
Some individuals may experience caregiver burnout by being the primary caregiver for their loved one. Caregiver burnout is a serious and common issue, with stress harming your emotional and physical health. Not addressing this concern can lead to a decrease in the quality of care you’re able to provide.
It takes a village to care for the person you love.
Memory care helps mitigate this concern by having professional care staff available to assist residents around the clock. Families can remain at ease knowing their loved one is well cared for. The support provided in memory care means that families can focus on creating memories and strengthening bonds with their loved ones, instead of focusing their energy and attention on day-to-day caregiving.
Schedule a Tour
Transitioning into memory care provides your loved one with the most suitable level of support and care, enhancing their quality of life and overall well-being.
Connect with our team at The Legacy at Cimarron to schedule a tour of our memory care community.