It’s estimated that 5.8 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s and similar types of dementia-related conditions. Part of what makes these types of diseases so insidious is how quickly they can progress.
Someone with the condition can rapidly go from occasional bouts of confusion and forgetfulness to being unable to take care of themselves. That’s why it’s so important to get the specialized type of care they need.
So, what type of care should you look for when searching for your loved one? And how do you find the best memory care in Ridgeland? In this Ridgeland memory care tips guide, we’ll answer these questions so you can make sure that your loved one gets the care they need.
What Is Memory Care?
A memory care community in Ridgeland is a specific type of assisted living community program that provides a safe environment with a structured schedule to people with memory conditions.
These programs often offer a variety of art, music, and puzzle activities that are designed to improve and retain cognitive function.
Since people with memory conditions are prone to wander, these environments are invaluable in terms of keeping them safe. And, as we’ll see, the structured program can drastically improve the quality of life of these individuals.
What Are the Benefits of Memory Care?
Memory care provides people with Alzheimer’s and dementia with a safe community to live in, as well as a daily structure of activities. With regular assisted living, staff will typically allow the residents to make their schedules.
With memory care, they’re available throughout the entire day to help. However, as this study notes, the real benefit of memory care is that it’s linked to better outcomes for residents.
That means that for people with early-onset Alzheimer’s, it can slow down the development of the disease.
And, for people with advanced Alzheimer’s, it can help them hold on to information while providing stimulating structure and quality to their day-to-day life.
Signs Your Loved One Might Require Memory Care
There’s never necessarily a specific indicator that it’s time to send someone into memory care. That being said, there are usually some common signs that indicate it’s time. These include:
- Frequent instances of them wandering away from home
- Frequent instances of them in unsafe situations like driving
- Challenges with personal care like going to the bathroom or hygiene
- The current caregiver is overwhelmed
- Troubles with speech or eating
Many people wait until the condition has progressed considerably before proceeding with care. However, there are some reasons you might want to consider this type of care early on in the condition.
As we mentioned, the activities associated with this care can dramatically slow down the progression of the condition. So, by signing up early on you can improve outcomes for the future.
How Much Does Memory Care Cost?
Unfortunately, the cost of memory care can be high in the United States. That’s because it requires a full-time, specialized staff that needs to be trained.
That’s not even counting all of the lodging, food, and care costs. It’s estimated that the average cost of memory care in the country is around $6,200. Generally speaking, Medicare and Medicare Advantage will pay for any medical care in these communities but refrain from paying for room and board or personal care.
Medicaid can also help cover some of these costs once they’re past the age of sixty-five. Still, for many families, good portions of memory care will need to be paid out of pocket.
Accessing the living benefits in a life insurance policy, or selling off personal assets from the individual can be a good way to afford some of it.
How to Find the Best Memory Care
Not all memory care communities are created equally. So, how do you find one that ensures your loved one is getting the care they need? For starters, you want to make sure that any program they offer is legitimate and based on evidence.
For example, here at SummerHouse Beau Ridge, we’re able to offer the SHINE® Memory Care. This program, which has earned a National Certificate of Recognition from the Alzheimer’s Association, uses the latest research to provide cutting-edge care.
In addition to looking at their accreditation, we also recommend touring the memory care community. During your visit, you should ask yourself the following questions about the Ridgeland senior living options.
What’s the Environment Like?
The environment of a memory care community should be clean and inviting. There should be clear aids to help the residents like doors labeled with pictures and words.
Gardens for walking about and libraries for reading are also great additions for supporting loved ones with dementia.
How Is the Staff?
Pay close attention to how the staff is interacting with the residents. Are they kind and accommodating? Or curt and rude? You should also take notice of the number of staff to the number of residents.
This ratio will ultimately determine how much attention your loved one receives from senior care services in Ridgeland.
Do They Provide Good Activities and Food?
Just because a person has a memory condition doesn’t mean they don’t appreciate a structured day with good food. To assess this, we recommend getting a copy of the activity calendar.
Don’t just look at the quantity of activities, but the quality too. Does the calendar offer a wide range of activities? Do they utilize live music, art, and other forms of therapy?
You should also look at their exclusive senior living programs when it comes to dining options. During your tour, you should ask to see the food served by the staff members.
If you can, try some too. You want to make sure that your loved one has something to look forward to every day, whether that’s fun activities or delicious food.
Ready for Exception Memory Care in Ridgeland? Visit SummerHouse Beau Ridge
We hope this guide helped you learn more about memory care in Ridgeland. Here at SummerHouse Beau Ridge, we take memory care seriously.
This is evident through our SHINE® Memory Care program, which features specialized care and cutting-edge techniques designed to help individuals retain everything for as long as possible.
So, if you’re ready to dramatically improve the lifestyle quality of your loved one, schedule a tour with us today.
