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What Is Alzheimer’s Memory Care?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Alzheimer’s memory care provides medical and nonmedical assistance to help individuals with cognitive impairments achieve a better quality of life. Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that negatively affects memory, behavior and problem-solving skills. Symptoms are mild during early stages but gradually worsen over time, increasing the level of care needed to live comfortably and safely.
Memory care provides a safe, thoughtfully designed environment for individuals in various stages of Alzheimer’s. It offers trained staff and therapeutic activities to promote an engaging lifestyle and alleviate cognitive decline.How does memory care help manage Alzheimer’s symptoms?
Memory care provides long-term support, specially trained staff and tailored programs to help manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Caregivers assist with personal care tasks and connect residents with cognitive activities and therapies aligning with their needs, skills and interests. Activities range from sensory therapy and brain games to storytelling and gardening, helping residents improve memory and concentration and reduce symptoms, including anxiety or irritation.
Memory care communities are also strategically designed with Alzheimer’s symptoms in mind, featuring easy-to-navigate floor plans with directional cues and security measures. This is meant to prevent stress or confusion and keep residents prone to wandering safe. If a resident requires medical attention for their symptoms, many memory care communities offer on-site health care services or coordinate appointments with external providers.
Where to find Alzheimer’s memory care
Memory care communities that treat Alzheimer’s are either standalone facilities or designated units of other senior living communities, such as assisted living or nursing homes. There are also local resources and organizations you can reach out to if you’re loved one is still in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and not quite ready for a residential facility.
Adult day health centers or respite services can monitor your loved one during the day or when you’re not available to be with them. Additionally, the Alzheimer’s Association has locations nationwide and can connect you with appropriate care options, programs and online tools to aid your loved one’s evolving condition.