When your loved one is living with dementia, caring for them can be a full-time job. This entails spending countless hours worrying about your loved one’s safety, ability to engage, overall wellbeing and happiness, and how to access the very best support for their needs.
When the time is right, finding the best memory support community for your loved one is crucial for their wellbeing and for your peace of mind. Safety is of the highest importance so finding a memory support neighborhood that is fully secure, while allowing residents the freedom to move around, enjoy the outdoors, and make choices, is ideal.
Another consideration is finding a community with staff that is specially trained to provide social and therapeutic group programs to enhance life for individuals with cognitive impairment. Residents should be offered engaging, purposeful activities and be encouraged to embrace these opportunities with enthusiasm. The environment should be designed to alleviate anxiety and help residents feel empowered in their own space. When caring for someone living with dementia, it is valuable to provide them with opportunities to become involved in activities that are engaging and interesting to them. Art and music programs are very popular and appealing, and art and music therapy are key components of memory support programs.
The physical environment should also be evaluated carefully when choosing a memory support community. The environment should be designed to alleviate anxiety and help residents feel empowered in their own space. Private rooms, which can be decorated with touches from home, with private baths are recommended to allow residents to feel secure. Outdoor access is another serious consideration. Experiencing the outdoors can be very stimulating and lead to positive emotions in everyone, especially those living with dementia.
There are over 100 different diseases that have dementia as a symptom — and those conditions lead to physical symptoms. It is wise to consider ordering a therapy assessment when a loved one living with dementia moves into a new environment. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy work together to make the transition as safe as possible. Additionally, those living with dementia should be assessed regularly for different therapy modalities to help them retain their physical abilities for as long as possible.
Finding the right fit for your loved one in a memory support community is an important process. Touring communities and finding a good fit should occur before a situation that may lead to a quick decision. Having your loved one on a list and knowing where the right place is before you need it can offer you peace as you look toward the future.
