Your Guide to What to Expect in a Memory Care Community
When you’re considering a memory care Lakewood community for your loved one, it’s only natural to be curious about what to expect in such a setting. These communities are a great choice for residents who need assistance because of Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory disorders. A good memory care community will also be a peaceful, secure, and nurturing environment for residents. But to be sure of that, it’s important to know what you should expect.
A Specialized Environment with Safety Features
Assisted living is designed to meet the special needs of their residents. The layout of the facility will be very different from a regular assisted living community in order to eliminate sources of confusion and keep residents safe. You’ll find secure entrances and exits to keep out uninvited guests and prevent residents from wandering. The space will also be designed with easy navigation in mind, with clear signage and visual cues to help residents stay oriented. There are also usually plenty of familiar items like plants and artwork to create a homey atmosphere.
Routine and Personalized Daily Schedules
Routine is important, which is why daily schedules are usually set in stone. Consistency in activities, meals, and rest times is comforting for individuals with memory impairments. It also makes the community feel more like home and lessens the stress associated with new people and places. The daily schedule can be easily adapted to your loved one’s needs and preferences. For example, if your loved one has dietary restrictions or likes to sleep in, the community can make accommodations to the daily routine. The important thing is to have a consistent schedule that can be easily followed, while still meeting the individual needs of residents.
Well-Trained and Compassionate Staff
Staff have gone through training that prepares them for the unique challenges they’ll face with dementia patients. They know effective ways to handle any difficult behaviors, like confusion or frustration, and they do so with compassion. This knowledge and expertise allows them to create a supportive environment for residents, as they know what to expect and how to handle various situations. Staff usually receive ongoing training to keep them up to date on the latest best practices.
Cognitive Stimulation Through Engagement
Engagement in activities is an important part of life in a memory care community. These activities are carefully chosen and tailored to the needs and abilities of the residents. The goal of these activities is not just to pass the time, but to keep your loved one cognitively sharp, socially connected, and happy. This can mean anything from music therapy and art classes to memory games and more. Residents will typically have plenty of opportunities to participate in activities and stay engaged with others.
Family Involvement
Retirement communities usually make a point of encouraging family members to be involved in the lives of their loved ones. This can include everything from regular visits to ongoing communication with the staff. The goal is to keep you informed and involved in your loved one’s care. You may also be able to get involved with activities and even care planning to ensure that your loved one is receiving the best possible care. This can be a great way to strengthen your relationship with your loved one and give you peace of mind.
A memory care Lakewood community is an excellent choice for your loved one, but you need to know what to expect to be sure.
