Is your aging parent forgetting recent events, even those that happened just a few minutes ago? They may no longer recall the names of loved ones and often misplace important items like medicines, keys, or glasses. These memory lapses are concerning and could lead to more serious problems. As the primary caregiver, you need to look after them constantly and keep the home setting safe and secure.
The Alzheimer’s Association has reported that almost 6.9 million people in the USA aged 65 and above are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Another report revealed that nearly 11.3% of people aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s dementia.
A loved one struggling with memory problems often becomes quite emotional. Despite your best efforts, the care you provide may not always be enough. That’s why it may be time to think of a different approach. A care facility for memory care Bel Air MD, can be a great choice for individuals with cognitive health issues. Let’s learn more about memory care facilities and what they offer, starting with the signs that indicate your loved one may need this type of service.
Signs Your Loved One Needs Memory Care
Let’s check out some of the most common signs that you need to consider a memory care facility for your loved one:
Behavioral Changes
The person is likely to show some changes in their behavior and mood – these are common signs of dementia. If you notice unusual behavior such as confusion, aggression, or paranoia in your loved one, it may be time to seek specialized care. A memory care facility that offers exceptional care in a home-like setting would be the best place. Here, your elderly can feel utmost safety and comfort.
Home Safety Issues
As dementia or Alzheimer’s progresses, the risk of accidents and injuries at home increases. If that happens, it poses a significant safety concern, and you cannot compromise on it. Situations like forgetting to turn off home appliances or leaving the stove on can be frightening. Therefore, it is essential to look for a memory care Bel Air MD facility that provides 24/7 safety and support for your loved one.
Difficulty With Daily Activities
Individuals suffering from dementia often lose their ability to do even the simplest tasks at home. This often includes basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and preparing meals. If your senior is also struggling to perform these activities, it is an indication to consider specialized care, such as that provided at a memory care facility.
In a recent community study, about 22.7% of surveyed older adults were considered to have suspected dementia. Among these, difficulties were common with basic ADLs: for example, disabilities in toileting, grooming, bathing, dressing, and feeding were observed.
Feeling Lonely
With the progression of dementia or Alzheimer’s, the person may no longer be interested in going out and meeting people. This can result in social isolation and often bring feelings of loneliness. Admitting your loved one with dementia to a memory care facility can be the right decision. Here, they can engage with other residents and form meaningful connections. They can also participate in several community activities and events held at the facility.
Caregiver Stress
For a family caregiver who is consistently offering support to an Alzheimer’s patient, it is easy to feel fatigued and exhausted. The caregiving duties can really take a toll on the physical and mental health of the caregiver. If you are also feeling frequent burnout while looking after your elderly loved one, seek expert support, which is available in a memory care facility. Bring your senior here, and you will take a much-needed respite from your caregiving role.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 20% of family caregivers report that their caregiving duties have had a negative impact on their health.
Benefits of Choosing Memory Care in Bel Air, MD
As per the National Center for Assisted Living, about 30% of the elderly suffering from Alzheimer’s/dementia reside in care facilities, including memory care units. Choosing these facilities can benefit the patient and their families in many ways, such as:
Daily Structured Routine
In a memory care facility, residents enjoy a consistent and predictable day-to-day schedule. The meals are served at the same time every day, medicines are administered on time, and so forth. This form of routine can create a comforting rhythm and give the residents the feeling of being more valued. That’s very crucial for someone living with dementia or Alzheimer’s – it can help lessen confusion, anxiety, and agitation that are often caused by memory decline.
On-Site Medical Care
One thing that makes the family members feel calm is that memory care centers offer an exceptional level of on-site medical services. These may include everything from routine health assessments to accurate medication administration. Additionally, the experts at the facilities are always ready to respond to emergencies as they arise. They provide immediate attention to the residents to help them stay safe and healthy around the clock.
Nearby Amenities
Many memory care facilities in Bel Air are conveniently situated near local amenities, such as libraries, community centers, places of worship, and parks. The residents can enjoy supervised outings to connect closely with the world around them. These short trips can brighten their day and lift their mood, allowing them to have a good time socializing with others. Even family members can join them on the outing, providing the perfect opportunity to spend quality time together.
Personalized Care
The memory-related issues of every person are not the same. A medical care facility understands this and creates personalized care plans that focus on the special needs of each resident. While designing the care plan, the facility takes into account the person’s medical history, cognitive wellness, personal preferences, and other relevant factors. It may also include the person’s specific diets, personal interests, and abilities.
For example, Jacob Halls was in the early stages of dementia, and his cognitive health was deteriorating. Concerned about his well-being, his daughter Melissa contacted Hart Heritage Estates, a renowned memory care Bel Air facility. The team provided personalized care designed to meet her father’s specific health needs. With their compassionate approach, Mr. Jacob began showing improvements in his condition, feeling relief and comfort.
Social Interaction
Those dealing with memory-related problems, especially individuals residing at home, can feel lonely and isolated quite easily. They may feel like they are in a bubble. At home, social interaction can be very limited. A memory care facility offers a nurturing environment with plentiful opportunities for socialization. Individuals here can form a sense of friendship by getting to know the experiences of the fellow residents. Shared dining and group activities can foster a deep connection. Hence, there can be fewer episodes of loneliness and depression.
What to Look for in a Memory Care Facility
Choosing a memory care facility in Bel Air is quite a challenge. Since it is a major decision, you need to be watchful of a few things. Many Bel Air families take time to carefully evaluate memory care services before making a decision. They can take time in carefully evaluating these crucial aspects before finalizing a memory care facility:
Safe and Secure Environment
Consider a facility that features safety measures such as supervised outdoor areas and secure exits. Having these features in place can prevent residents from wandering – that’s a common concern among those suffering from memory problems. You must also ensure that the facility has non-slip flooring, grab bars, adequate lighting and ventilation, and emergency call buttons.
Skilled & Experienced Staff
What matters most is the expertise and qualifications of the staff at the facility. Select a memory care facility that employs caregivers and nurses with vast experience and thorough training in senior care. The staff should receive consistent training on the latest treatments and recommendations related to age-related memory loss. They must be able to identify even the most minor changes in the person’s behavior or condition and respond with patience and empathy.
Convenient Location
Choosing a facility that is close by can be very beneficial for families. When the place is just minutes away, family involvement becomes very easy. The family members can visit more frequently to meet their loved ones. These regular visits can provide emotional support and establish a solid connection – that’s comforting for those struggling with memory decline.
When Robert Holder, a retired accountant in Bel Air, began showing symptoms of memory loss, his son Albert reached out to Hart Heritage Estates for support. This memory care facility, located just a few blocks away, made it easy for Albert to visit frequently. He often brought his father’s favorite snacks during each visit. These regular meetups improved Robert’s condition, both physically and mentally, while Albert felt reassured, knowing he was close to his father and relieved from the stress of long commutes.
Activities and Engagement
A good facility must offer different fun activities and engagement opportunities for its members. Variety adds flavor to life, so it is essential to choose programs based on residents’ interests, such as gardening, music therapy, gentle exercise, and memory-enhancing games. These activities promote mental stimulation, social engagement, and overall physical well-being. Residents can sharpen their minds and lift their spirits with these activities – they are more than pastimes; they actively keep the mind engaged.
Reviews and Ratings
The reviews from past residents of the facility are something that highly matters. Before making a decision, it is advisable to verify the reputation of the memory care facility by reading online reviews and testimonials. Look for genuine and positive feedback from other families, as this indicates a trusted image of the facility you will be sending your loved one to. You can also visit the facility in person and speak with the residents to gain a better understanding of the quality of care and the overall environment.
Hart Heritage Estates: Trusted Memory Care for Your Loved Ones
For families looking for a supportive environment for their dearest ones who are struggling with memory problems, Hart Heritage Estates is a safe place. We are a reputable memory care facility committed to offering top-grade, respectful care for dementia patients. Our communities, in Street and Forest Hill, are nicely situated in scenic areas with many shopping and dining options nearby.
At Hart Heritage Estates, we provide residents with access to a range of services. We provide meals, housekeeping, 24/7 staffing, security, laundry services, and more. Moreover, they can fully enjoy many on-site amenities like a courtyard, library, chapel, and various fun activities.
We have relieved heavy burdens from many shoulders, and most Bel Air families have trusted us for our:
- Experienced and qualified staff
- Positive reviews from past residents
- Secure environment and engaging activities
Rely on our memory care Bel Air MD, to give your loved one the right care and feel at ease. We also provide a personal and guided tour of both our facilities. For more information, feel free to contact us at the given numbers.
