Approximately 48% of residents in assisted living communities have some form of cognitive impairment. If your parent is showing signs of mental decline, it raises a tough question: Is it time to consider memory care in Ridgeland?
Realizing that a family member is struggling with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be heartbreaking. The emotional toll is immense, but it also signifies that important decisions must be made for their well-being. Should you put your loved one into assisted living? How can you ensure they receive the best care possible?
Keep reading to learn the signs you need to start considering memory care for your aging loved one and make the best decision for their future.
What Is Memory Care?
Memory care is a particular service for people in assisted living communities with memory problems, like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These communities offer dementia care options that help residents stay safe and happy. Memory care in Ridgeland provides many services to help your aging loved one live better.
For example, they have secure buildings and outdoor areas to prevent wandering. They also have activities to keep the mind active, such as:
- Puzzles
- Music therapy
- Memory games
Staff members are trained to handle the unique needs of people with memory issues. They offer help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating.
Plus, they give medications on time and monitor for any changes in health. Together, these services ensure your loved one gets the care they need in a safe and supportive environment.
Signs It’s Time for Memory Care in Ridgeland
Deciding when a loved one needs memory care can be difficult. That’s why it’s vital to know the signs that extra help is required. Here are some signs that it’s time for memory care in Ridgeland.
Personal Hygiene Levels Have Decreased
When you notice that your elderly parent is not keeping up with their personal hygiene, it can be a big red flag. This could mean:
- Skipping showers
- Not brushing their teeth
- Wearing the same clothes for days
These are typically early signs of dementia. Memory issues can make it hard for people with dementia to remember daily tasks like grooming. They might also forget how to do these tasks or lose interest in them altogether.
At this point, it might be time to consider a Ridgeland senior care community. These communities are designed to help with day-to-day tasks and provide specialized care for those with memory issues.
Moving to a community like this can improve their quality of life and ensure they are safe and well-cared for. The staff is trained to deal with dementia and can help your parent maintain their hygiene and dignity.
They’re Losing Track of Time
When your aging parent starts losing track of chunks of time, it can be a sign that they need more help than you can give at home. They might forget what day it is or miss necessary appointments. This can be dangerous if they fail to take their medications or leave the stove on.
Assisted living in Ridgeland offers a supportive environment where trained staff can help your aging parent with their daily routine. They will get the care they need, and you can have peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.
They Become Withdrawn
When you notice your aging loved one becoming withdrawn, it might be time to consider senior living services like memory care assisted living. Withdrawal can indicate that they struggle with daily tasks or feel overwhelmed by their environment. They might:
- Avoid social activities
- Stop talking as much
- Seem lost in their own thoughts
These changes can indicate that they need more specialized care and support than you can provide at home. Memory care assisted living can offer a structured environment with trained staff who understand their needs.
They Become Unsafe
When you notice early signs of dementia in your aging loved one, it’s time to consider memory care assisted living. If they start having trouble remembering simple things, like where they put their keys, or if they get lost on their way home from the store, it’s a sign. If they seem confused or have trouble keeping track of days and times, they need more help.
It’s a big red flag when they become unsafe, like leaving the stove on or wandering outside at night. Frequent falls are also a serious concern. Memory care assisted living provides a safe space where trained staff can give them the help they need.
Caregiving at Home Is No Longer an Option
It’s not easy to juggle your job, your kids, and your parent’s needs simultaneously. You might always feel tired and worried about your parent’s safety.
Memory care assisted living can be a big help in this situation. These communities have trained staff who know how to care for people with memory problems like dementia. Your parent will get the necessary care and be in a safe environment.
Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing they are well cared for. This can allow you to focus on your own family and responsibilities while still being there for your parent in other ways.
You Notice a Physical Decline
When you see your elderly parent start to decline physically, it might be time to consider memory care assisted living. If they are losing weight, having trouble walking or falling more often, these could be signs of dementia. Dementia doesn’t just affect the mind; it can also weaken the body.
Navigating the Journey of Memory Care
Navigating the journey of memory care in Ridgeland can be challenging, but recognizing the signs that your loved one needs additional support is crucial. It’s essential to remember that seeking memory care assistance is not a sign of failure but rather an act of love and a commitment to ensuring your loved one’s safety, comfort, and overall well-being.
Experience unparalleled memory care at SummerHouse Beau Ridge in Ridgeland, MS. Our specialized, compassionate team offers personalized care plans, engaging activities, and a secure, nurturing environment to enhance your loved one’s quality of life.
Discover the peace of mind you’ve been searching for. Schedule your visit today to see why SummerHouse Beau Ridge is the premier choice for memory care.
