It can be difficult to watch parents age. It can be even more difficult to see aging loved ones struggle with memory issues. These people may struggle to remember basic tasks, may struggle to care for themselves, may wander or become a danger to themselves and may have personality changes that are difficult for those around them to experience. While some forgetfulness is to be expected with old age, certain changes are not safe and may require a different style of care.
Benefits & Safety of Memory Care Communities
Memory care communities are designed with the particular needs of these seniors in mind. They are designed to decrease the chance of individuals wandering off and to decrease the stress associated with dementia. For example, rooms may be designed to look like the individual’s former bedroom, and memory boxes may be integrated. Some units are circularly shaped to decrease wandering. Of course, housekeeping, dining, and personal care are provided by memory workers. The people employed in these settings have special training for working with those who are memory-challenged.
While it can be hard to know exactly when a loved one needs memory care, there are some signs that individuals can watch for that signal the need for change. These could include some or all of the following:
- Lack of safety in former surroundings
- Wandering
- Unexplained cuts, scrapes, and bruises
- Fear when in familiar settings
- Decreased physical health due to forgetfulness
- Increased problems caring for finances
- Increased problems with personal care
- Purchasing duplicate items
