Memory Care Benefits at an Assisted Living Facility

For most of us, the decision to move a loved one who needs memory care to an assisted living situation is a very difficult one. Even when we may know that it is the best decision for them, we can’t help but have an overwhelming feeling of guilt. Although it is hard to see now, there are many benefits to assisted living for those living with Alzheimer's disease or dementia. The benefits are different from person to person, but not only do they help the person being moved in, but they also help the family who is making the decision to do so. Here are 5 benefits of assisted living for those needing memory care:

Safety

For those living with Alzheimer's or dementia, one of the greatest benefits of assisted living is safety. Alzheimer's can affect an individual's sense of judgement, behavior, and physical ability. It's not uncommon for someone to forget how to use a household appliance, lose their balance, or get lost when they leave their home. Living in a community with people around to lend an extra eye can be extremely comforting. If an accident were to happen, help is there for them. Assisted living communities can also provide safe transportation to get them where they want to go.

Community

When we get older, it gets much harder to go out to see our friends or to meet new people, especially when mobility becomes an issue. Yet, socialization is a key way to support brain health, focus, and a sense of belonging, especially for those with Alzheimer's disease or dementia. One wonderful thing about living in a community is the opportunity to meet new people and to have friends nearby to do things with. In assisted living, residents have the opportunity to participate in many different social activities, like outings or even just eating lunch with someone. Even if they’re a social butterfly or a lone wolf, they can benefit from human company.

Everyday Care

For adults living with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, it gets harder to do everyday tasks, such as cleaning and cooking a nutritious meal. Assisted living facilities can take care of making the beds, vacuuming the floors, cleaning the bathroom, and dusting the shelves. Meals are also provided for all 3 meals. These little things can make a big difference in the safety and comfort of your loved one.

 Memory Care Around the Clock

All assisted living communities have a health center or wellness center and some, like Gateway Living, have a specialized memory care unit. The trained professionals at these facilities can help monitor your loved one’s memory care needs, and they can communicate with their physician on what the best care for them would be. They can help administer treatment and medication too. This can be helpful for them, and can relieve the stress of knowing how to properly handle your parent’s health care.

Family Roles Restored

Last but not least, perhaps the biggest benefit of assisted living is the restoration of family roles. A daughter who has been acting as a nurse can go back to being a mother for her kids.  A spouse who has been a caregiver to his wife can go back to being her husband. Many families struggle with the stress of changing schedules to accommodate for the needs of their loved ones. Even if it is done with good intentions, it can be exhausting. Assisted living communities allow those to be able to conduct much needed self-care, as well as offer the best solution to improve their loved one’s life by trained professionals.

To learn more about the memory care services our facility offers, visit our website or schedule a tour of our campus today.