Memory Care Communities: Detailed Guide

Remember, the first time your parents bought a play station for you only to see that smile on your face? Or perhaps, the time when you held your father’s hand and entered high school? Now, when it is your time to show how much you care for your elderly parents, do not shun the responsibility.

One of the most common problems that elderly couples face is that of memory loss. And with the advent of so many memory care communities and facilities in and around cities and towns, caring for the elderly requiring assistance was never this easy and hassle-free.

This article will primarily deal with the following topics, namely-

1. What is memory care?
2. Who requires memory care?
3. The transition from home-care to memory care facilities
4. Memory care centers- Expenses

So, for a better idea about the topics mentioned above, read on details provided below in brief.

1. What is memory care?

Memory care is when you arrange ‘skilled nursing” for your parents if they have been diagnosed with memory loss or memory related problems. Two most recognizable disorders detected among senior include symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

It is basically caring for people that have the above disorders and require assistance with ADLs or areas of daily living.

1. Who requires memory care?

In the initial stages, if you find that an elderly is losing memory and forgetting things frequently, it might be misunderstood as a normal process of aging. The need for memory care can be felt only if symptoms worsen over a period of time.

If an individual is showing a progression of dementia, he will undoubtedly require to be under memory care. These days you will find many memory care facilities that address such issues. Talking to a medical practitioner can help you to assess the situation better.

1. The transition from home-care to memory care facilities

Over a period of time, seniors who have dementia and Alzheimer’s disease will require extra care. Memory care centers, which are “specialized nursing homes” are your best bet. You will also come across many assisted living communities that have memory care centers too.

These facilities have 24-hour monitoring; assistants help you with round the clock health supervision, personal care, provide meals, and offer therapy to patients as per their requirement.

However, always opt for assisted living facilities that hold a valid license and follow state regulations. In a nutshell, you can expect to avail the following benefits at the memory care centers-

• Round the clock personal care and assistance
• Thrice a meal daily
• Private room or a semi-private room, whichever you prefer
• Administering medicines
• Physical therapy
• Cognitive therapy
• Laundry
• Housekeeping
• Social and recreational activities

1. Memory care centers- Expenses

The cost of memory care facilities is usually more as compared to conventional methods of caring or assisted living. The main reason is that individuals suffering from memory loss require extra care and attention.

If you are opting for residential care, be prepared to shell out approximately $2500 to $5000 plus per month. Alternatively, many government-funded programs are comparatively cheaper.

Last but not the least, opting for licensed caregivers is of prime importance. As such, check credentials before you take the plunge.