Memory Care
As people get older and struggle with their memories, they move into another phase of life which requires a high level of care. However, there are major differences between the common types of memory blips most people experience and different forms of dementia.
Many people may struggle with minor memory issues, like where they left their keys. In contrast, dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving skills, and other abilities that impede daily life. It may lead to being unable to recognize close family members or getting anxious about things that used to be routine.
What do facilities that offer memory care look like? Please read on to learn more.
Cognitive Supports
Leading dementia care homes like Sagecare offer multiple types of cognitive support on various levels for each resident. Dementia is experienced along a spectrum, and people’s conditions and symptoms may vary. So, too, should the cognitive support offered.
When dementia is the rule and not the exception, residents can mentally relax because they can relieve themselves of the social and intellectual expectations usually required to keep up the appearance of the “self.”
The specially trained nurses understand dementia in all its facets, the environment, and the residents themselves. People’s cognitive abilities may be changing, but it’s important for them to be treated like empowered individuals who are more than the sum of their memories. Cognitive abilities may change, but human needs don’t. Look for a facility where highly skilled nurses work closely with other certified professionals, such as registered dietitians, physical therapists, art therapists, and others.
Emotionally Understanding
Supporting people with dementia can be very trying and tiring. It’s emotionally tough to see important people in our lives who were once fiercely independent and mentally sharp need to rely on other people for basic daily tasks. Sometimes, their children, friends, and loved ones aren’t sure how best to respond.
Nurses in dementia care homes have a very specific emotional philosophy they believe and use to support patients. They make it a point to check their assumptions, presume capacity, seek consent, protect the sanctity of home, while intervening when risk is unacceptable.
In other words, they try to balance the type of considerations a person’s spirit requires against practical concerns like safety. They understand that people should be treated with dignity, regardless of how memory challenges may complicate care.
Informed Support
Dementia care homes have a few specific tactics they use to help residents enjoy each day under their roof. For example, they will insist on having family pictures and mementoes from home in their rooms.
The environment should have soft, calming colours and promote relaxation. It’s hard to pin down precisely because the leading dementia care homes take the best from different approaches and apply it uniquely for each resident.
You may see different aspects of care from various schools of thought, like the Eden Alternative, Hogeweyk, Montessori, Butterfly, Adards, Gentle Care, Wellspring, and Green House, as each situation requires.
If your parents, relatives, friends or loved ones need memory care, consider getting support from a facility that fits the above description.