Moving your aging loved one into a memory care community can be an agonizing choice to make, especially because of all of the myths and misconceptions surrounding memory care as a whole. Thankfully, choosing memory care is not as intimidating of a decision as it seems. By doing proper research, you’ll soon learn to understand that memory care communities have changed vastly over the years, evolving into the life-saving entities they are today. While it may take society a while longer to fully embrace memory care communities for what they are now, you can take the step toward greater health and happiness for your loved one by choosing memory care communities today!
Memory Care Communities are Institution-like Places
We tend to avoid calling memory care communities “facilities” or “institutions” because such descriptors are far from the truth. Memory care communities understand that cold, sterile environments do more harm than good, which is why most strive to make themselves more like home. Most memory care communities take into consideration residents’ needs and preferences, creating an environment that’s as comfortable as it is beneficial to live in. Just by taking a simple tour around a memory care community, you’ll know that they have far more in common with your regular neighborhood than you think.
Memory Care Communities Take Away Independence
Many imagine memory care residents to be cooped up at home, without any physical or mental stimulation. Contrary to popular belief, memory care communities focus on encouraging residents to live more independently and confidently. While memory care residents may need more support than other older adults, memory care communities make up for these differences, helping residents to overcome their limitations and live more independently on their own terms. Memory care neighborhoods and homes are specifically designed to be easier for residents to freely navigate around, which may not be the case for them in their previous environment. Furthermore, thanks to the various safety measures retirement communities have in place, you don’t have to sacrifice your loved one’s safety for their independence.
Memory Care Residents Would Receive Better Care at Home
Many turn to at-home care due to the unconditional care and love that family provides. However, they also fail to mention the various problems that it could lead to as well, such as caregiver burnout and stress. Unfortunately, most homes are not properly equipped to provide memory care services, due to the nature of dementia and other cognitive conditions. On the other hand, professional memory care teams are well-equipped and trained to manage residents’ symptoms and behaviors, which is why the quality of care in a memory care community tends to be higher.
Memory Care Is Generic
Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia that require memory care services are complicated, which is why memory care is far from generic. Memory care communities, contrary to popular belief, do not adopt a one-size-fits-all approach to care services. Memory care programs thrive because of how they work alongside residents and their families to ensure that each resident receives care that’s appropriate for them, acting as a partner rather than a nanny in their retirement.
