Almost 10 percent of all seniors in the United States have some form of dementia. While a caregiver can provide as much love and support as possible, it's not always enough for those with worsening cognitive issues.
That's where memory care for seniors comes into play. This is a specialized form of senior care that takes into account the struggles and risks of caring for someone with dementia. It includes a variety of activities and programs that help to keep their minds active as they age.
Here's what you need to know about specialized dementia care and how it can help.
First of all, it's important to understand the different types of dementia and how they differ. There are at least eight types that are most often seen, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, and Lew Body Dementia.
Some of these focus more on the brain while others can affect all aspects of a person's life, including their mobility. Treatment options can vary based on the type and the progression.
One of the most well-known and most common forms of dementia is Alzheimer's. This disease accounts for roughly 60 to 80% of all dementia cases.
Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that worsens over time. In the early stages, memory loss is mild. A person can still live alone without too much difficulty, though their social life can suffer.
As the disease progresses, individuals can lose the ability to carry on a conversation or even take care of themselves. This happens over a number of years, although most live four to eight years after diagnosis.
This type of dementia is identified by the presence of abnormal protein deposits in the brain. Symptoms often include visual hallucinations, fluctuating alertness, and movement difficulties.
Like other forms of dementia, symptoms will worsen over time. This can lead to aggressive behavior, depression, and an increased risk of falling.
Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that primarily affects movement. However, it can lead to cognitive decline and dementia in its later stages.
The main symptoms include tremors, muscle stiffness, slowness of movement, and impaired balance and coordination. Early symptoms are subtle and gradually worsen at different rates for individuals. In some cases, a person with Parkinson's may also be diagnosed with Lewy body dementia.
The biggest issue with dementia is that it's a progressive disease with no cure. At best, treatments can stave off symptoms temporarily. However, a caregiver's job will only become more intensive as time progresses.
A good way to tell when it's time for your senior to move into memory care is by the way their dementia impacts their life.
Dementia can disrupt sleep and cause changes in weight. They may appear with new bruises from falls or find themselves clumsier than before.
The living environment can also tell a person a lot about the state of their dementia. Unfinished home repairs, neglected landscaping, and a general lack of housekeeping all indicate that things are going unnoticed. Maintaining their living environment has become too burdensome.
Memory care communities exist to provide specialized care for seniors living with dementia. Residents gain access to various accommodations, memory support programs, and amenities when they move in. Their family and friends can rest easier knowing their loved one is getting professional Napa Valley elder care.
Arguably the most important part of memory care is that residents gain access to staff with training and experience. These communities specifically employ staff who are trained in dementia care and how to navigate cognitive impairments.
Each resident has a personalized care plan developed to meet their specific needs and preferences. This helps to promote better health and well-being as well as make them feel more independent.
One of the risks of caring for someone with dementia is if they wander. Memory care communities are designed to prevent wandering through secure entrances and exits. Residents are often accompanied by staff and supervised at all times.
In addition, staff can handle a variety of medical emergencies and behavioral issues. Something that a caregiver struggled with at home may be a normal task for staff.
Memory care communities have various programs and scheduled activities that can help improve cognitive function and physical health. These allow them to stay active and prevent depression or anxiety.
Activities may take the form of puzzles, games, or exercise programs. Staff can help find the right ones for your loved one given their needs and desires.
Staff provide opportunities for social interaction with the help of their residents. These can help reduce the feeling of isolation as well as make the transition much easier.
Group activities are especially useful as each resident can help keep each other in check. They can help guide those who are more confused and rely on their peers for assistance.
Part of any senior living community is access to nutritious meals. Staff tailor each meal to the dietary needs of seniors. Residents can access meals either through a central dining hall or get meals delivered to their rooms.
If any resident struggles to eat, then staff can assist with that. Staff can also help with any other food-related needs, such as cooking or shopping for specific groceries.
Memory care for seniors isn't going to be a solution to all of your problems. Your loved one's dementia will continue to get worse, regardless of what anyone does. However, that doesn't mean they can't live a full and vibrant life in the meantime.
The Watermark at Napa Valley provides an elevated living for our senior residents. Our community options include independent living, assisted living, memory care, and respite care. We're also located in the heart of Napa Valley with access to wine country and more.
Contact us today for more information and to set up a visit.