If you or a loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, you are probably looking for a high-quality Palm-Aire memory care community. A memory care community is the best option when it comes to getting the care your loved one deserves. But it can be challenging to find a community that has everything your loved one needs. In this blog post, we will be discussing the features to look for in a memory care community before you make this decision.
Social Setting
For seniors who have Alzheimer’s or dementia, socialization is one of the best types of medicine. Many people tend to become more isolated as they age, which can add to the symptoms of memory loss. This is because socialization is engaging and helps seniors to stay mentally sharp for longer.
You want to choose a Palm-Aire memory care community that has a strong focus on socialization. It can do this by creating a one-on-one atmosphere where every resident gets individualized attention.
The community may also encourage socialization by creating more social settings and opportunities. This is often done by having social spaces like a dining room or a lounge room where residents can hang out. It may also encourage more socialization through group activities and programs.
Home-Like Apartments
When you help your loved one transition to a memory care community, this can feel challenging for both of you. After all, it is not uncommon for family members to feel a bit of guilt if they are no longer able to care for their loved one on their own. The reality is that a memory care community is often the best fit for your loved one and allows you to take the role of a family member instead of a caregiver.
One feature that will help this transition is home-like apartments that are easy to settle into. A memory care community should have high-quality apartments for the residents that allow them to feel at home in a safe and monitored environment.
You can help decorate your loved ones' apartments so that it is easier for them to transition and settle into their new space. Having a personalized and private place to go is also important for their mental health and still supplies them with a certain level of independence.
Engaging Activities
Possibly one of the most vital aspects of any memory care community is the type of activity program it has. Every community should have a strong focus in this area since activities will be an important aspect of each resident's daily routine.
Some activities to look for include therapeutic and sensory activities that are designed to help those who have Alzheimer’s or dementia. Some examples of this include activities like folding laundry, singing, and organizing. There may also be more engaging activities like puzzles and interactive games that residents can play with one another.
There should be activities available for those who have more extensive memory loss, which can make it harder for them to do certain activities. This can include things like untying knots, arranging flowers, coloring, and painting.
Medical Team
Part of why a memory care community is so beneficial for seniors with memory loss is the team of professionals they will be surrounded by. If you try to care for your loved one on your own, there is only so much you can provide without the right resources. At one of these communities, your loved one has access to a team of medical experts around the clock.
The memory care team can help with daily tasks, such as making sure your loved one gets their medication regularly and does daily tasks safely. There is usually a registered nurse on site who can help oversee each resident to make sure all of their medical needs are being met. If your loved one has any kind of medical emergency, the team will know how to act to make sure they get the care they need.
Safe Environment
Another feature to consider when looking at memory care communities is how safe the environment is. Those with memory-related conditions are at a greater risk of injury since they may not be as aware of their surroundings or may struggle more with mobility. A memory care community should have things like grab bars, non-slip surfaces, guard rails, and safety devices.
The floor plan for the community spaces and the apartments should also be spacious, helping to prevent tripping and falling. There should be a good ratio of staff to residents to ensure that there is always someone available to help if necessary.
Individual Care
Every senior who has memory loss is going to have their own unique set of needs. Memory loss is something that progresses so these needs will constantly be changing. Because of this, you want to choose an award-winning memory care community that can change with your loved one to ensure they have what they need.
The community should provide individual care with enough staff so no resident is overlooked. Individualized care also ensures staff will notice if something is changing with your loved one so that you can stay up-to-date with how they are doing.
Outdoor Spaces
Palm-Aire is a beautiful location with warm and sunny weather, which is why you want a community with plenty of outdoor spaces. The memory care community should have outdoor areas that are safe for residents to enjoy and get some fresh air. This is also important for encouraging physical activities as they can walk around or enjoy activities like gardening.
Want to learn more about helping your loved one transition into a memory care community? For more information on how to go about doing this, check out this Dementia Care Checklist.
