A condition that causes memory loss (dementia) is one of the most common reasons an elder can no longer live at home. To meet the need for safe housing, some assisted living facilities offer “memory units” or “memory care.” This a form of residential care specialized to meet the needs of people with cognitive impairment. There are also standalone facilities entirely devoted to this purpose.
Every aspect of memory care is designed for adults with dementia.
- More staff. Personalized attention is the heart of memory care. Familiarity is comforting to the person with dementia. It requires more staff per resident.
- Simplified environment. Fewer walls and shorter corridors are the norm. This way, residents can see where to go. They don’t have to remember. The decorations are usually homey. And clutter is kept to a minimum.
- Special activities. Cards or other strategy games are too hard for persons with dementia. Instead, these residences focus on social and creative activities. For example, a storytelling circle or sing-along.
- Extra safety measures. Exit doors are typically equipped with alarms that signal if they are opened without a special code. Residents do not have kitchens or potentially dangerous objects in their apartments.
- Additional staff training. Employees are taught how to work with people who have dementia. For instance, they may learn special techniques for calming an emotional outburst. Or how to recognize symptoms of pain in a person who is no longer able to speak.
Residents range from individuals with mild dementia to those in the late stages of the condition. A person with simple memory loss may need only verbal reminders to take their medications. At later stages, a resident may receive with dressing, bathing, and eating.
It’s important to know that monthly fees are higher for memory units than for basic assisted living. Medicare does not cover these costs. That’s because dementia is not considered an acute medical problem. If you think your loved one may need memory care now or in the future, consider consulting with a care manager to make sure you have all the information you need.
Are you worried about your loved one’s memory?
As the Roanoke and Lynchburg experts in family caregiving, we at Gentle Shepherd Hospice get it. Watching someone’s cognitive ability decline can be scary. We’re here to support you with assessments and recommendations. Give us a call at 1-800-789-0586 (toll-free) to learn more.