If a loved one is starting to have memory challenges, rest assured that they are far from alone. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, more than 130,000 Georgians have a diagnosed memory condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia (ADRD).

As the condition progresses, it is important to consider whether a memory care community can provide the right level of support. But how can you know when it is time to make that call?

In this post, we will explore the signs that someone needs memory care assistance. We will consider a broad range of symptoms that can help you make a decision that prioritizes your loved one’s safety and well-being.

Struggles With the Activities of Daily Living

As conditions like Alzheimer’s disease develop, it may become harder for your loved one to take care of themselves safely in their own home. Common signs of this struggle include difficulties with the activities of daily living, such as:

Going to the bathroom
Remembering to eat and drink
Bathing regularly
Dressing appropriately for the occasion/weather

In addition to providing dementia care tips, your loved one’s doctor may help you decide when to transition to memory care. Doctors often highlight difficulties with the activities of daily living as red flags, indicating that more care is needed.

Cognitive care programs provide reassurance as specially trained caretakers are on hand 24/7. You can have peace of mind knowing your loved one is always in safe hands.

Unsafe at Home

When seniors have memory challenges, their homes can become full of dangers we may never have considered. For example, they may start using the stove and then walk away, increasing the risk of a house fire. Or they may start to fill the bathtub and forget, flooding the bathroom.

A study in the National Library of Medicine found that people with dementia are also more likely to struggle with a loss of balance. Trips and falls are more likely to happen and can cause long-term problems.

Social Isolation

Sadly, social isolation and dementia go hand in hand. According to the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease Reports, people who are socially isolated are 50% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.

Also, people who already have a diagnosis of dementia are more likely to withdraw from social situations and become lonely. Driving may be challenging or unsafe, and remembering appointments may become more difficult. Therefore, it is easy for someone with dementia to disconnect from their social circle.

Alzheimer’s care solutions, like memory care communities, combat this by providing an activity calendar full of opportunities to connect with other people. There are crafts, puzzles, and games that can stimulate cognitive skills. Plus, there is time to relax and enjoy a movie in good company.

Increased Wandering

Many people with dementia begin to wander, and this can get worse as the condition progresses. In the worst situations, this can lead to people wandering far from home and not knowing how to get back. They could also wander into dangerous situations, such as crossing busy roads or going outdoors in bad weather.

Memory care communities are fully aware of this challenge and take steps to keep seniors safe. A combination of safety features and supervision helps seniors with dementia remain in the safety of their community and avoid dangerous situations.

Unsafe Behavior

Every person’s journey with dementia is unique. Sadly, some seniors with dementia experience behavior changes and can become a danger to themselves and others. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, this may include:

Hallucinations
Aggression
Verbal outbursts
Delusions
Sundowning (increased confusion in the evening)

Managing these behaviors while keeping yourself and your family safe can be challenging. However, in memory care communities, staff are trained to know what to say and what not to say to reassure seniors experiencing behavioral issues. The accommodations and communal areas are designed to keep seniors safe even when they are exhibiting uncharacteristic behavior.

Doctor Is Concerned

During regular appointments with your relative, their doctor will look for signs that the memory condition is progressing. For example, the doctor may be concerned that your loved one can no longer carry on a coherent conversation. Signs like weight loss or weight gain may indicate they can no longer look after themselves on their own.

A doctor is well-placed to provide impartial advice about the next step for your loved one. While families often disagree on the best course of action, a doctor’s objective opinion could help you focus on what is best for your loved one’s needs as their condition progresses.

Caregiving Is Overwhelming

Many families provide amazing care for their loved ones with dementia. However, memory loss management may become increasingly difficult and even overwhelming for caregivers in the long run. If you are currently caring for an elderly relative, you are to be commended, but you also need to prioritize your health.

The Family Caregiver Alliance candidly acknowledges that caregivers may experience:

Higher rates of depression
Elevated levels of stress and frustration
A higher risk of cognitive decline

The report found that female caregivers have a more difficult time than male counterparts. Therefore, if your health is suffering as a caregiver, it may be time to consider transitioning your loved one to a memory care community.

You will have peace of mind, knowing your loved one is receiving specialized care from a dedicated team of professionals. At the same time, you can focus on improving your health.

Exceptional Memory Care at TerraBella Roswell

We understand that transitioning a loved one to memory care is a difficult decision for any family to make. However, as the points above demonstrate, it can be a loving thing to do. It ensures your relative is well cared for and spends each day in a safe and supportive environment.

At TerraBella Roswell, we have provided outstanding memory care for seniors with dementia for over twenty years. Our approach is person-centered, celebrating residents as individuals and providing tailored care that meets their physical, mental, and emotional needs. Our community provides a stimulating, supportive atmosphere where your loved one can thrive.

Schedule a tour today to learn more about our senior memory support community.