There are many living communities available around the world and each of them has different levels of care services. There are assisted retirement villages, living communities, and continuing care retirement communities. There are also specialized living communities that care for residents with particular health issues. One such example is memory care communities. These communities are long-term care communities for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. While being diagnosed with dementia does not mean your loved ones have to move into a memory care facility, some signs suggest they might need memory care.
Behavioral Changes
Dementia is a disorder that affects the cognitive functions of the brain. As the brain is in control of one’s personality and behavior, there will come a time when dementia patients will experience behavioral changes. Such changes can sometimes be mild and are not something to be worried about. However, dramatic behavioral changes are a cause for concern and could be a signal to consider memory care services. Examples of drastic behavioral changes include your loved ones becoming progressively aggressive and agitated. Sudden loss of interest in the things they love to do can also be considered a behavioral change.
Health Issues
Another sign of your loved ones needing memory care is if their physical health is declining. This is especially if your loved ones are staying alone. When your loved ones become weaker physically, it significantly limits their ability to care for themselves. If your loved ones are unable to go about their daily activities, it means that they are not able to live independently anymore and should be considered for a memory care community. Incontinence may also pose as an issue for dementia patients as they can forget to go to the bathroom. They can also urinate in inappropriate places at inappropriate times. However, when this becomes excessive, it can be unsanitary for you and your loved ones. Significant urinary incontinence is also a sign that your loved ones should be moved to a caring community.
Lack of a Caregiver
Caregivers are important for people suffering from dementia as they support them and help them with their daily activities. They can be a hired nanny or even your loved one’s spouse. However, a dilemma arises when your loved one’s spouse passes away or when the hired caregiver decides to leave. While you can also take the role of a caregiver, the truth remains that most people are not able to act as full-time caregivers if they have other obligations to fulfill. Forcing yourself to take on the role of a caregiver may pose as a hindrance to you and negatively affect you in the long run. If you have difficulties finding a full-time caregiver for your loved one, it might be time for them to move into a memory care community. You do not have to feel stressed or guilty about not being able to care for your loved ones as they are being cared for by professionals who are experts at handling the disease.
