More than 16 million people provide unpaid care to a person with dementia, and Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Despite this, many people have no experience with dementia until they are providing care to a loved one. Finding dementia care in Marietta, Georgia, can feel overwhelming. However, with a little diligence and some support from trusted allies, you can find the perfect long-term care solution for your loved one.
Factors to Consider Before Searching
Before you begin your search for dementia care, it’s important to look at your goals and your loved one’s needs. Dementia care includes a continuum of services, from in-home aides to 24/7 residential nursing. To identify the best option for you, try asking some of the following questions:
- How much help can I give my loved one without sacrificing my own well-being?
- What is my budget, and what services will be covered by insurance or other programs for which we are eligible?
- What sort of care does my loved one need, and how might that change with time?
- How can we best meet my loved one’s emotional and socialization needs?
- Which needs are not being met by our current care plan?
- What support do I need? Caregiver health matters, too. Many senior living communities offer support groups and other family interventions.
Beginning Your Search
Once you have an idea of the sort of care your loved one needs, ask people you trust for recommendations. You can also find help from Georgia’s Division of Aging Services, which offers links to and tips for choosing in-home and community-based care.
Cobb County is home to several exceptional senior centers. These centers act as hubs of information for senior care and living. You may find recommendations from people you trust at the center, or listings for local care options.
Once you have a list of potential options, it’s time to research each one. Try calling the care provider. In-home care providers may come to your home for an interview, and senior living communities can schedule you for a tour.
It’s important to include your loved one in this process, even if their dementia is fairly advanced. Doing so allows them to feel a sense of agency. You can also gauge their reaction to various care options and let those reactions guide your decision.
Don’t shy away from asking lots of questions. Consider making a list of must-haves before your visit, and then assessing whether the care provider can meet each of those needs. The best providers will eagerly share with you details of their program.
Making the Decision
After you visit each community and meet each care provider, it’s time to narrow down your options. It helps to make a chart of each provider, then compare them to your list of must-haves. Consider also seeking help from other family members, who may be able to offer additional insight or follow up with care providers.
After you’ve made your decision, begin preparing your loved one for the move. This is a major transition and can take time to adjust to. Listen to your loved one, and allow them to feel their feelings, whatever they may be. Change can be difficult, but most seniors grow to love their dementia care provider.
Senior Living for Dementia Care in Marietta
Senior living offers a comprehensive, all-in-one approach to dementia care. The right senior living community offers a safe place for your loved one to call home, as well as lots of activities, plenty of stimulation, and a continual commitment to preserving your loved one’s dignity and happiness. Seniors enjoy gourmet meals, special events, dementia-friendly classes, and more.
Arbor is committed to quality, comprehensive care for all seniors and their families. We know that dementia can be challenging, but it does not have to mark the end of a meaningful, productive life. Stop by and attend an event at one of our communities to learn more, or give us a call for help developing a comprehensive long-term care plan.
