A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can be overwhelming. This is true whether it’s you or a family member that’s struggling with memory impairment. Thankfully, there’s plenty of support available. More than 67,000 people in Oklahoma are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and Memory Care communities help them maintain their safety, dignity and independence. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of Memory Care and how it can enhance the quality of life for you or your loved one.
Trained and Certified Staff
Caring for someone with dementia can be challenging. Common symptoms include agitation, aggressiveness, wandering and confusion. Many people with Alzheimer’s disease also resist bathing, eating, taking medication and other activities needed to maintain health.
Caregivers in Memory Care communities receive specialized training to help overcome these issues. This gives them skills that family members might not have, allowing them to support the health of residents. There are also fewer residents per staff member than in Assisted Living, allowing caregivers to provide more personal attention to each senior.
In addition to dementia-care staff, Memory Care communities also have healthcare available. Here at Montereau, licensed nurses are on-site around-the-clock, and physical, occupational and speech therapies are available. Physicians and psychiatrists visit, meaning residents don’t have to leave to attend appointments.
Secure Surroundings
Memory Care communities are specifically designed to support the health and well-being of residents. Wandering is a common concern for those with dementia, but Memory Care neighborhoods have added features such as secure doors and courtyards to stop residents from leaving and becoming lost. This may sound constricting, but it actually enhances the independence of residents. They can move around the community freely, as family and staff know they can’t enter unsafe or unsupervised areas.
Specially Designed Environment
Memory Care communities also go beyond safety when planning their environment. Buildings, gardens and rooms are often designed to stimulate the senses. Sensory stimulation has been found to help seniors with cognitive impairment stay in the moment and interact with their surroundings. Montereau’s indoor-outdoor sensory garden is one example of an area that’s been created to inspire relaxation and increase cognitive function.
Improved Health
Older adults with dementia can have trouble looking after their own health. They may not wish to eat or exercise, can no longer cook and often forget to take medications. Moving into a Memory Care community ensures there is staff available to look after their health and wellness. Nutritious meals are provided, there are exercise classes, nurses monitor the health of residents and caregivers provide medication reminders. These steps help promote brain health and maintain physical health.
Dementia-Specific Activities
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia can be very isolating. You may lose contact with friends and have trouble participating in favorite activities. Memory Care communities have specialized programming that’s designed to support brain health. Group activities give people opportunities to be social, and individualized programs support the unique needs of each resident.
At Montereau, our activities schedule is designed to foster positive daily experiences. Music therapy is one example of science-based memory therapy for seniors. It’s been found to stimulate memories, improve focus and enhance seniors’ communication abilities through live musical performances and personal iPod playlists.
Decreased Stress
Stress can make dementia symptoms worse, so managing it is vital for those with cognitive impairment. A Memory Care community provides a consistent routine that may decrease anxiety. As healthcare is provided in the community, seniors aren’t constantly transitioning to different environments, which helps keep them calm. Residents using the hospitality services and amenities in other areas of Montereau are escorted by staff, providing reassurance.
It’s not just residents’ stress that decreases after a move into Memory Care. Family and friends are often very worried about their loved ones after a diagnosis of dementia. Knowing that they will be looked after by compassionate, highly trained staff provides peace of mind.
Schedule a Tour
Montereau’s caring team is available to discuss how residential care can help you or your loved one after a dementia diagnosis. Call (918) 495-1500 to schedule a tour and explore Memory Care options in Tulsa.