When is it Time for Memory Care?

When is it Time for Memory Care?

When you love someone, it can be especially difficult to see them struggle, particularly if they appear to be experiencing cognitive decline. Are they able to still live at home and receive support? When is it time for memory care? Knowing the signs to look for can help you decide the best course of action.

When is it time for memory care? Indicators your loved one might benefit.

• Safety. A bit of confusion occasionally is one thing, but frequently getting lost or forgetting where they live is a serious sign. So is forgetting to turn off the stove or not being able to safely operate other electrical appliances. Locking keys in the car is another indicator. Wandering can place them in dangerous situations. Any action that results in your loved one putting themself or another person in danger can help answer the question of when is it time for memory care.

• Health & Wellbeing. Aging brings with it many changes and challenges, but your goal is always to help your loved one live the best life they can, no matter their age. If you suspect they are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, pay attention to their overall health. Do they seem able to eat properly? Any sudden weight changes or loss? What about hygiene—do you notice that their clothes are not washed, or they are neglecting personal grooming? Issues with continence? A decline in mobility that might be increasing their fall hazard?

Medication errors are another factor. If you find yourself wondering how much of the confusion is simply not paying enough attention to a label, or is it time for memory care, consider the risk. Some medications must be taken at exact times to be effective. Mixing medications can be extremely harmful. It’s easy for anyone to forget if they have taken a pill and then double dose. Estimates suggest that more than half of the U.S. population is incorrectly taking their prescriptions.

• Depression or isolation. More and more scientific evidence is confirming the health hazards of isolation and loneliness. A person with memory issues often feels left out and alone, often choosing to avoid situations where their inability to casually mingle will be on display. Depression is also a serious problem among older adults, particularly those dealing with dementia. Untreated depression—often characterized by sleeping problems, irritability, fatigue, loss of interest, feelings of hopelessness—can lead to suicide.

• Agitation or other changes in behavior and personality. If your loved one suddenly seems to have developed a different personality, or exhibits multiple mood swings, you are right to consider when is it time for memory care. Other signs to watch for include a loss of interest in activities or pastimes that were previously very important.

• Lack of physical or mental stimulation. If your loved one is struggling with memory issues and also showing other signs of difficulty living on their own, chances are they are not getting the physical or mental stimulation during the day that is so important for overall wellness. Problems with mobility, communication, and access to safe transportation can result in an older adult living in isolation with no easy means of staying active and involved.

When is it time for memory care?

Ultimately, determining that your loved one needs more care than can be provided at home is a decision only your family can make. When you decide that your loved one needs care outside of the home, it’s time to do your homework. The most common options are a memory care neighborhood within an assisted living community or a stand-alone memory care community, which could be part of a large senior living campus with access to other types of care as well.

At The Herrick House, our Spectrum memory care program is specifically designed to care for those who suffer from cognitive impairments.

The goals of the program are to:

• Provide a lifestyle that promotes compassion, dignity, and respect in a safe and secure environment.
• Provide failure-free activities for residents that promote feelings of success and accomplishment while maintaining their self-esteem.

Whether it is a short- or long-term stay, you or your loved one will enjoy all of the amenities that make The Herrick House such a special residence.