When Should You Put a Parent in Memory Care?

You should put a parent in memory care when they can no longer live independently due to cognitive impairments, and you need support with their daily care needs. There are no definitive rules about when it’s time to transition your parent into memory care; it’s a personal decision made with your parent’s best interests in mind. Your loved one’s doctor can assess signs of dementia and help you decide when memory care is the best option.

When your parent can no longer independently manage daily chores or personal tasks, their quality of life may start to diminish. Memory care facilities play a crucial role in addressing these challenges, helping to maintain and even improve their quality of life. Caregivers in these communities can help your loved one with:

• Personal hygiene such as bathing, dressing and grooming
• Housekeeping
• Participating in social activities

In memory care, your parent benefits from round-the-clock care and a personalized care plan tailored to their specific needs. This comprehensive approach not only ensures their well-being but also provides you with peace of mind, knowing that the challenges and stressors of their daily life are being attentively managed.

Memory loss can lead to instances of forgetting to eat or take essential medications, which can impact their physical health. Be sure to talk to your parent’s physician when you have concerns related to their overall health. Their insight can be instrumental in ensuring that your parent receives the appropriate care and support required, and they can offer valuable support when facing difficult decisions.

It’s worth noting that some illnesses and diseases are associated with symptoms that mimic dementia. Low levels of certain vitamins and nutrients are associated with dementia, according to research studies. When these problems are addressed through professional memory care, you may see improvements in your parent.

Memory care can help your parent:

• Managing medications
• Manage doctors’ appointments
• Maintain weight through a healthy diet
• Control diseases through medication and lifestyle changes

While you may want to respect your parent’s desire to maintain their independence, safety is a paramount concern. Memory care goes beyond just providing care; it offers robust security measures that can enhance your peace of mind. With memory care, you can rest assured that your parent won’t become victim of accidentally leaving the stove on or face the risk of falls without immediate assistance. These are just a few examples of how memory care eliminates safety concerns, creating a secure environment for your loved one.