After a dementia diagnosis, many individuals and their loved ones search for ways to improve their overall brain health while planning for the future. For many, the decision to move into a Delray Beach, FL, memory care community is an emotional and challenging one that can even cause feelings of guilt in family caregivers. Loved ones considering memory care communities may overlook its many benefits, such as significant improvements in brain health.
Through its supportive environment and thoughtfully planned programs, memory care communities offer the structure and support to help people living with dementia thrive through improved brain health. Here, we’ll share a few ways a memory care community positively impacts brain health.
Opportunities for Socialization
While loneliness and isolation are shown to reduce cognitive decline, many older adults living with dementia struggle to stay socially connected. Some older adults intentionally or inadvertently distance themselves from friends and family members. Memory care communities offer plenty of opportunities for socialization - both from fellow residents and caring team members. Residents of a memory care community in Delray Beach, FL, enjoy feeling a part of the community and building new relationships. These factors contribute to feelings of belonging and improved brain health.
Cognitive Stimulation
Memory care communities help residents stay cognitively engaged through a robust activity calendar. The engagement calendar offers a range of activities, from games and puzzles to music programs, current events, and so much more. Activities are thoughtfully planned to create a well-rounded day that allows residents to improve their brain health and participate in purposeful events. Memory care at The Arbor at Delray offers a peaceful art studio to inspire creativity and a game room where residents can enjoy and stay active together.
Physical Wellness Opportunities
Physical wellness is a cornerstone of brain health. What keeps the body healthy keeps the brain healthy. Memory care communities support residents in completing personal daily living tasks independently whenever possible while also providing help where needed. When residents have the support needed to maintain their physical well-being, it will improve their cognitive abilities.
In addition to physical wellness through personal care support, the engagement program at a memory care community offers plenty of fitness programs. Group classes, such as chair yoga or tai chi, are just a few options for residents. Residents can also enjoy walking clubs outdoors to take advantage of the beautiful Florida weather.
Nutritious Meals
Many older adults living with dementia struggle to maintain good nutrition. They may forget to eat, overeat, or struggle to prepare well-balanced meals. Without proper nutrition, brain health can deteriorate. A memory care community offers a dining program that offers nutritious meals on a routine to ensure residents have the nourishment they need. The dining room staff also supports residents in following diet plans or diary restrictions while ensuring they are delighted with each meal. Additionally, meals are served in a restaurant-style dining room to encourage socialization at mealtime.
Medication Management
Consistency is key when it comes to brain health. It’s common for older adults living with dementia to struggle with managing their medications. Taking multiple doses or missing doses of medications is not only dangerous but can also leave the individual experiencing increased confusion or mood changes. The care team at a memory care community offers a medication management program that keeps medications secured until they’re needed and offers reminders and support when it’s time to take the dose.
Supportive & Structured Environment
Memory care neighborhoods, like The Evergreen Neighborhood at The Arbor at Delray, provide residents with a safe, secure, and supportive environment. The neighborhoods are designed to provide a safe, peaceful, and comfortable setting for residents. A supportive atmosphere promotes a sense of security, which can improve brain health.
A memory care community positively impacts many factors that contribute to brain health. Some families observe noticeable improvements in their loved one’s brain health after transitioning to a memory care community.
If you’re uncertain if your loved one would benefit from a memory care community in Delray Beach, FL, schedule a tour at The Arbor at Delray today. Our experienced team can help you understand how a memory care community can support your loved one, improve brain health, and help them feel their best.
