Know the Signs: When it’s Time for Memory Care

The decision to seek memory care for a loved one can be difficult and stressful for both you and your family member living with dementia. Many people wonder about how and when the right time to seek help would be. Others question how a memory care facility can help their loved one living with Alzheimer's, dementia or other memory disorders. Knowing what to look for when one of your family members has a memory disorder can help to get care and support quickly.

Clues That Could Indicate an Underlying Concern

We all age, and as we do, our memory may be impacted in different ways. But, there is a difference between an aging mind and a memory disorder like dementia. Some signs are easier to spot, but the only way to know for sure is to consult your healthcare provider.

Common signs of dementia include:

• Repeating questions 
• Mixing words up 
• Getting lost in familiar places 
• Mood swings and emotional changes
  

While any of these signs may indicate that your loved one is beginning to experience symptoms of a memory disorder, these indicators may also be simply the result of aging. A healthcare provider can conduct tests to determine if the symptoms indicate something more than typical aging.

When you know the signs of worsening memory, you can act quickly to get help. Sometimes, memory disorders are the result of medications, head trauma or even stress in older people.

Many people who have cognitive disorders find an assisted living facility to be an immense help. The Cottages help our community residents maintaintheir independence and have freedom to enjoy their life as much as possible.