Dementia May Minimize Memory, but it Can Still be Managed

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, dementia or another memory-depleting illness, the search for quality care is the most important thing. One of the key factors to consider is the search for assisted living for those suffering from memory disorders, especially with the search for a quality facility, staff, and memory care program.

While assisted living for dementia patients is crucial, there is much too consider when choosing the facility and the proper memory care program:

• Safety
• Enriched Daily Social Life
• Included Family Support
• Improved Daily Tasks (i.e. mealtime)

Safety in the Memory Care Program

One of the key focal points of memory care is creating a safe environment for dementia patients, both in their independent rooms and any groups where they are communicating with doctors and other residents.

Enriched Daily Life

Dementia need not be a reason that a person’s life diminishes completely. While they may be in assisted living, there is still the ability to have a fulfilling life with the activities that the staff can create for the community, engaging and independent. There is much that those living with dementia can learn from specialized activities, making them proud and confident while strengthening communication skills.

Family Support

A quality memory care program works to include the family in the daily care of every ressident. There is no reason to let the family fall to the wayside, working to help provide the family with confidence that their loved one is living with quality care.

Improved Daily Tasks

Considering that some daily tasks like dining alone, or other independent tasks that take place in noisy or distracting situations, are no longer easy. With the memory program of an assisted living facility there is close communication and support provided by staff in completing these tasks, helping to maintain both confidence in activity and health and wellness.

With all support and care provided by an assisted living facility for dementia patients, there is much to be gained from improved daily life and health. Quality facilities have well-trained staff and regular improvement of memory programs.

What is Respite Care?, And Where Can I Find It?

Respite care is defined as “temporary institutional care of a dependent elderly, ill, or otherwise handicapped person, providing relief for their usual caregiver.” 

If you are a caregiver for a family member who is suffering from a memory loss illness, you are likely aware of how draining the responsibility can be in countless different ways. On one hand, you know your family member needs you, but on the other, you feel like you are running empty – physically, financially, and most commonly, emotionally. 

The stressful nature of caregiving is what gave rise to respite care. Caregivers are essentially living to care for someone else for most of their daily life. While this can be a rewarding position, it undoubtedly takes a toll, resulting in the expert-recommended need for occasional breaks. This can come as a day to yourself every week, a week to go on vacation, or an indefinite break to reset yourself personally. Whatever it looks like, studies show that using respite care is essential for healthy, effective, happy caregiving. 

How Do I Get Respite Care?

One way to get relief from the full-time job of caregiving is to try to share the responsibility with other family members. Be honest with your loved ones and explain that you need an occasional break, in order to stay healthy and keep caregiving. However, for many families, this is out of the question, so you may need to seek outside respite care.

In the Austin area, The Cottages offer respite care options. They are an Alzheimer’s and memory care assisted living facility. They recognize the need for a break for caregivers, along with the need to change those living with a memory disorder’s surroundings and activities occasionally, to maintain alertness. As a result, they essentially offer three types of stays at their residences:

● Full-time

● Respite– indefinite stay

● Day respite– one day where the patient participates in all of The Cottage’s meals and daily activities 

In the end, the stressfulness that comes with being a caregiver is very highly recognized within the medical world, but often overlooked otherwise. Take the time you need, whatever time that may be, to care for yourself while someone else cares for your loved one.