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A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia may initially cause overwhelming emotions, leaving you to wonder how to manage the next steps and future challenges for you or your loved one.
Finding a senior living community with a separate memory care area is essential to caring for an individual with dementia. These memory care communities have thoughtfully planned every aspect of daily life for their residents, from peaceful dining experiences to meaningful social activities. Once you have narrowed down some options, you will want to evaluate them based on the five topics below that are essential when making your final choice for the memory care community in Memphis, TN that is right for you or your loved one.
Safety
Your top priority should be a community with attentive monitoring that provides a safe, secure, nurturing environment. As you compare your options, you will certainly be looking for a community that will provide opportunities for social engagement and activities that will keep you or your loved one moving throughout the day. Keep in mind, however, that the best memory care communities will prioritize safety above all else. Check to be sure that residents are monitored to reduce the risks involved with dementia.
Dining and Meals
For many seniors, dining and meals become a more challenging endeavor, and this is definitely the case for those experiencing dementia. The best memory care communities will have staff who happily assist residents during meals in a way that allows them to maintain their independence and dignity. As you review the dining options, be sure they provide meaningful dining experiences and a variety of delicious meals tailored to meet the specific health needs of their residents.
Activities and Engagement
Living with dementia can often become isolating and may even be dangerous. Therefore, meaningful participation through engaging activities is essential as you choose a memory care community. Communities that foster socialization and enrichment help those with dementia to be more stimulated, thus lowering their desire to wander. Choosing a community that keeps the residents engaged while being supportive and gentle will ensure feelings of safety and comfort.
Community Design
The best communities will be purposefully designed to foster comfort and convenience. Be sure to tour the areas that make a community dementia-friendly and ask questions about the physical space. Floor plans, outdoor space, the building layout, and even the doors should be designed with the residents in mind to create a productive and safe place to call home.
Individual Attention
Every resident in a memory care community should receive individualized support and resources from team members experienced in cognitive care. From medication management to personal care plans, be sure staff is trained in the most recent best practices in memory care. Ask about how and when staff members are educated.
Keep these important topics in mind to effectively evaluate the memory care communities that you visit. You will find a memory care program in Memphis, TN, that knows the value of safety, comfort, and connection for you or your loved one.
Opus East Memphis is a senior living community in Memphis, TN offering exceptional care in assisted living and memory care. Please call 901-763-8485 to learn more today!
