What is Memory Care?
Memory care is specialized assisted living care. Memory care residences provide those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia housing and 24-hour care that is tailored to their unique needs. Care can take place in its own facility, or as part of a designated unit or wing of another residential care community like an assisted living residence.
Memory care residences offer a safe, specifically designed environment and memory-enhancing therapies that improve quality of life. This multi-faceted approach to dementia care helps residents maintain their skills as long as possible.
Memory care residences in Florida must have an Extended Congregate Care (ECC) license in addition to the Assisted Living Standard License. Help and assistance with daily activities and personal care is provided.
These Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are
- bathing
- dressing
- grooming
- eating
- ambulation
- transferring
- toileting
- hygiene
- walking & other similar tasks
- supervision/help with medication
Supportive Dementia Therapies
Every resident has a unique dementia journey from cognitive ability, memory, attention span, language, and reasoning ability to how they function physically. Specific memory care therapies, programs, and activities are designed to meet the resident where they are on their journey. Arts and crafts, games, socials, live entertainment, exercise, outings, and more are therapies without the label.
Lifestyle
Memory care residences are a unique form of assisted living. Safety is paramount and memory care residences are secured so that residents do not get confused and wander outside the building unsupervised.
In many memory care residences, next to the resident’s door, see-through memory boxes filled with precious momentos and photo boards of family, friends, and places that hold special meaning to the resident make living quarters association easier. Memory care residences incorporate the five senses in day to day living. You may hear music of the past, smell the aroma of freshly baked cookies, and feel the touch of a hand when enjoying a dance. Sensory elements and activities make for fun moments and keep residents engaged and stimulated.
Who Would Benefit from Memory Care?
The behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias can vary. If your loved one is experiencing any the following, a memory care residence may be the right care solution. These behaviors and others are addressed by staff members who undergo specialized training to care for your loved one.
- wandering
- memory loss and confusion
- suspicions and delusions
- hallucinations
- sleep issues and sundowning
- repetitive actions
- depression
- anxiety and agitation
- aggression and anger
Author: Sage Aging ElderCare Guide
Sage Aging ElderCare Guide was created to lead families to good information on senior living and care choices. You will find educational articles, videos, podcasts, worksheets and searchable provider directories on this website to help you make quality decisions. Feel free to contact us at info@ElderCareGuide.com or call us at 863-802-5043 if you need additional assistance.