September 27, 2023
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How Memory Care Can Help Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
When a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, memory care is often recommended as an option once they need more help than can be provided at home. But when exactly is that? And while memory care can support their needs, you may not realize that it also offers much more than that. Here’s more about the signs it’s time for memory care, as well as the benefits and the cost of this type of senior living.
Signs It’s Time for Memory Care
Memory care is a type of senior living that is just for those with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia. The staff is specially trained to nurture and support the unique needs of those with dementia and care is provided in a safe environment with opportunities for your loved one to find purpose and joy. Signs it may be time to consider moving your loved one from home to memory care include:
Safety Issues
- Your loved one is forgetting to turn off burners when cooking or using electrical appliances incorrectly
- They get lost frequently when leaving the house
- They are wandering or exhibiting behaviors that may cause your loved one harm (or those around them)
Health Issues
- Your loved one is experiencing increased agitation and anxiousness
- They are having problems with incontinence
- They are experiencing sudden weight loss or gain
- Their mobility has decreased
- Your loved one is making medication errors
Emotional Wellbeing
- Your loved one seems depressed
- They lack opportunities for social stimulation
- They would benefit from activities to strengthen cognitive functioning
There are typically two types of settings in which you’ll find memory care: a neighborhood or unit within assisted living or a stand-alone community; although it may be on a campus that offers other types of senior living as well. Regardless of the setting, in memory care you can expect:
- Private or semi-private accommodations
- Three daily meals and snacks
- Medication management
- Personalized support with bathing, dressing, eating, and other daily tasks
- Social, fitness, and recreational activities
- Housekeeping and laundry services
However, at GenCare Lifestyle, we take memory care a step further because we believe people with dementia can still have a full life.That’s why we created our PEAK memory program which is designed to engage your loved one where they are today while enhancing their overall wellness – mind, body, and spirit. The benefits of PEAK memory care include:
- 24-hour certified caregivers specially trained in memory care
- Cutting-edge technology provided by the iN2L (It’s Never Too Late) system
- A wholesome, healthy made from scratch culinary experience with gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan and diabetic friendly menu options
- Structured daily routines to decrease stress and enhance comfort
- Intergenerational activities and pet therapy
- Daily opportunities to engage through music, exercise, and/or brain fitness programs
- Family resources, volunteer opportunities, and education
PEAK Memory Care is available in our Point Ruston, Scriber Gardens, and Federal Way communities.
The Cost of Memory Care
According to 2021 NIC statistics, the average monthly rent in memory care is $6,935 in the United States. However, costs vary from state to state and are also impacted by the specific services provided in a given community. While certainly, that cost is significant, keep in mind that it includes living expenses that you pay for out of pocket at home (in addition to your mortgage or rent) such as utilities, meals, home maintenance, and transportation. What’s more, the most recent Genworth Cost of Care Survey found that the average monthly cost of home health aide services (assistance with personal care, but not medical care) is $5,148 and that only assumes 44 hours of help per week. All things considered, and given your specific circumstances, memory care may actually cost less!
For more information on how PEAK memory care can help seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, schedule your private tour today!
