At TerraBella Southport in Southport, NC, we have thoughtful dementia care plans to support our residents. They include two floor plans, personalized care plans, an inclusive environment, a holistic approach to wellness, and family involvement.
The National Institutes of Health shows that there are over 6 million Americans who currently have dementia, and the number of new cases will double by 2060. This means that for older adults, dementia and Alzheimer’s support in NC may be necessary in the near future.
When choosing a memory care community in Southport, NC, you want one with customized dementia care plans, like TerraBella Southport. That way, you’ll get the best care possible.
What Is Included in a Dementia Care Plan?
A dementia care plan should outline personalized strategies that support the physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of someone living with dementia. Typically, it includes information such as:
- Diagnosis details
- Medications
- Healthcare contacts
- Daily care routines (hygiene, meals, and mobility assistance)
- Communication preferences
- Known triggers
- Calming techniques
- Meaningful activities that promote engagement
- Safety measures
Important aspects of dementia care are emotional and social support, so don’t forget to include things like visits, hobbies, or therapies that can enhance quality of life.
Make sure that this plan is regularly updated with input from family, caregivers, and healthcare providers. That way, you ensure that there’s consistent and compassionate care, even as the senior’s condition progresses.
What Are the Five Pillars of Dementia Care?
The five pillars of dementia care are:
- Person-centered care: Understand the person’s history, preferences, and needs to maintain dignity and identity.
- Effective communication: Patience, empathy, and techniques like using simple language and positive body language.
- Safety: Environment minimizes risks, prevents wandering, and supports physical comfort.
- Meaningful engagement: Activities that stimulate memory, creativity, and emotional connection.
- Caregiver support: Training and mental health resources for those providing daily assistance.
The Dementia Care at TerraBella Southport
TerraBella Southport has over 20 years of experience providing memory care in Southport. Our assisted living with memory care puts residents in a setting that allows them to thrive.
Two Floor Plans
To make sure that memory care residents retain as much of their independence as possible, we have two floor plans available: Brunswick and Mariner, both of which are 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartments. However, the latter has almost double the square footage.
Both come with weekly housekeeping as well as personal laundry and linen services.
Personalized Care Plans
The most important part of cognitive support is personalization. Every senior is different, and the stage of dementia they’re in will vary too, so you can’t use a cookie-cutter approach.
In our community, our staff members use scientifically backed methods for dementia care. We also use the same principles and applications as the nation’s best memory care programs, which results in top-quality care here.
Inclusive Environment
It’s easy to feel left out, especially since seniors are prone to isolation and loneliness. We make an active effort to make everyone feel included, and we accept each person’s individuality. At TerraBella Southport, everyone plays a crucial role in the community dynamic!
In addition, we promote confidence and self-esteemby celebrating small achievements. We turn away from failures and weaknesses, and instead, shine a spotlight on what our residents can do.
Holistic Approach to Wellness
Every older adult needs a comprehensive approach to wellness. Otherwise, they may be lacking in key areas, and this can decrease their quality of life.
Our memory care residents enjoy:
- Exercise classes
- Group activities
- Engaging dining experiences
They don’t always have to spend time in group settings, though. We also also them to have quiet, carefree momentsin the company of our staff members in one-on-one settings.
Family Involvement
Loved ones know best, which is why we strive to keep family members informed and involved in our memory care residents’ care. When loved ones can keep in touch, this can give peace of mind to everyone involved.
We even capture meaningful moments with photos and videos so those far away can celebrate small wins!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Daily Care Needs of Someone With Dementia?
In general, people with dementia need a structured daily routine. This should balance physical care, safety, and emotional support.
They’ll need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Grooming
- Eating
- Toileting
Consistency is crucial, as familiar routines help reduce confusion and anxiety. Also, there should be social interaction through gentle conversations and activities that stimulate memory.
Caregivers should also provide those with dementia a calm environment that has minimal clutter.
What Is the 90-Second Rule for Dementia Patients?
The 90-second rule in dementia care is something caregivers and loved ones can use to facilitate better communication with older adults who have dementia. Essentially, it emphasizes patience, as it allows extra time for the person with dementia to process and respond.
Due to the cognitive changes that the disease brings about, those affected often experience delayed comprehension and reaction times. So it’s important that if you ask a question or give instructions, pause for 90 seconds before repeating or rephrasing.
This approach helps prevent confusion, frustration, and emotional distress for all parties involved.
What Is the Two-Finger Test in Dementia?
The two-finger test in dementia is an informal screening tool that caregivers and healthcare professionals use. It can assess the following in someone who may have dementia:
- Coordination
- Motor control
- Cognitive function
To do the test, hold out two fingers and ask the senior to mimic the gesture. Or you can have them touch your fingers.
Either way, this test evaluates the person’s ability to:
- Follow simple instructions
- Recognize gestures
- Coordinate movement
Get Personalized Dementia Care Plans at TerraBella Southport
It can be scary to deal with dementia, especially as the disease progresses. This is why it’s absolutely essential for older adults to get personalized dementia care plans at the senior living community they’re in. This ensures that they’re well taken care of and that if their needs change, the plan changes with them.
TerraBella Southport offers housekeeping, maintenance, laundry, and linen services so our residents’ lives are as chore-free as possible. Contact us now to get more information about memory care in Southport, NC.
