Seniors: Basic Signs It’s Time for Memory Care

Memory care is a term used to describe a specialized type of long-term care that is designed to meet the needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other forms of memory loss. 

Many signs may indicate it’s time for memory care. Read on to see those signs.

As we age, it is normal for our memory to decline. But sometimes, this decline can be a sign of something more serious, like dementia. If you are some ‘abnormal’ signs in a loved one or yourself, it may be time to consider memory care.

Basic Signs that you Need Memory Care

• Difficulty completing familiar tasks

Have you ever gone to the store and forgotten what you went there for, or gotten lost on your way home from work? 

Those are types of memory lapses are normal as we age. 

But if you realize that you’re regularly forgetting how to do things that were once second nature, it could be a sign of dementia.

• Changes in mood or behavior

This could include becoming more withdrawn, irritable, or anxious. This usually comes with difficulty in sleeping, delusions, or hallucinations. Memory problems can often go hand-in-hand with changes in mood or behavior.

If you’ve noticed your loved one is suddenly more withdrawn or agitated than usual, it could be due to cognitive decline.

• Problems with language

Another sign is a decline in cognitive abilities, such as problems with language, disorientation, and confusion about time and place. They may also experience changes in their ability to concentrate and make decisions.

• Difficulties in understanding visual images and spatial relationships

People with Alzheimer’s disease often have trouble reading maps and judging distances between objects. For instance, they might have trouble driving because they cannot accurately gauge whether another car is coming toward them down an intersecting road.

How to Care for Memory Loss Patients

One great way to get started with memory care activities planning is by talking to family members or close friends. They can often provide insight into your interests and hobbies. From there, you can start brainstorming ideas on how to incorporate those interests into daily activities.

It is also important to consider the needs of each individual when choosing memory care activities. For example, some individuals may need more assistance than others in completing an activity.

Others may become agitated easily and need calming activities instead. Each activity session must be tailored to eliminate any undue stress or anxiety.

Activities for Memory Care

There are certain types of memory care activities that are better than others. Here is a look at three different types of memory care activities you should keep in mind.

• Brain Games: These games help stimulate the mind and keep cognitive skills sharp. Examples include crossword puzzles, sudoku, and trivia games.
• Art Projects: Many times, patients with Alzheimer’s or dementia enjoy being creative and expressing themselves through art projects such as painting or sculpture. This is a great way to channel energy into something positive and productive.
• Music Therapy: Listening to music or even participating in singing can be very therapeutic for patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Music has been shown to improve moods significantly and reduce stress levels.

How to choose the right memory care for your loved one

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right memory care facility for a loved one.

First of all, you need to evaluate the level of care required. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, they will likely need more specialized care than if they simply have age-related memory loss.

Consider the location of the facility and whether it is close enough for you to visit regularly. Finally, you’ll want to inquire about the facilities at different memory care homes to find the best fit for your loved one’s needs.

Conclusion

If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek professional help. Memory care specialists can provide the support and resources needed to manage the symptoms of dementia and other cognitive impairments. They can also help create a personalized plan to maintain quality of life and maximize independence.