May 19, 2023  -  Memory Care

How to Transition Alzheimer’s Patients into Memory Care

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it can be a difficult time for families. The disease is progressive and can lead to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily activities. Eventually, the need for specialized care in a memory care community may become necessary.

This is a difficult decision for families to make, but with careful planning and empathy, the transition can be made easier for everyone involved. Speak to your loved ones about their feelings during this process, so you can come to a united choice together. If you’re considering memory care, research communities near you and the services they offer. Learning about the early signs of Alzheimer’s can help you determine the right path for you.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

When it comes to transitioning a loved one into memory care, understanding Alzheimer’s disease is important. Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that causes problems with:

• Memory
• Behavior
• Cognitive function

It’s a progressive disease that worsens over time, and there’s currently no cure. When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s important to recognize that the disease is not their fault and is beyond their control.

It’s a neurological disease that affects the brain, and it’s vital to approach it with understanding.

Knowing When It’s Time for Memory Care

As Alzheimer’s progresses, there may come a time when your loved one requires specialized care in a memory care community. Signs that it may be time for memory care include:

• Wandering and becoming disoriented
• Difficulties performing basic tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Aggression, agitation, and hallucinations
• Cognitive function decline, including memory loss

Monitor your loved one’s condition and be aware of these warning signs. If you notice any of these symptoms, it may be time to think about memory care.

Choosing a Memory Care Community

Choosing a memory care community can be challenging, but it’s important to find one that meets your loved one’s needs. Look for a memory care community that has:

• Trained staff
• A safe and secure environment
• Activities that cater to the needs of those with Alzheimer’s disease

You can start by researching online, reading reviews, and asking for recommendations from healthcare providers, friends, and family members. You can also visit the communities in person and speak with the care team to get a better sense of the community.

Preparing Your Loved One for the Transition

Preparing your loved one for the transition to memory care can reduce anxiety and make the transition easier. This can be done by:

• Talking to them about what to expect
• Visiting the community with them
• Allowing them to bring familiar items from home

Involve your loved one in the decision-making process as much as possible. Allow them to express their feelings and concerns and reassure them that they will still be loved and cared for.

Supporting Your Loved One & Yourself

Moving a loved one into memory care can be emotional for families. As important as it is to help your loved one through the transition, it’s just as important to make sure you care for yourself as well.

Stay in touch with the community’s team and visit your loved one regularly. Participate in activities with them and bring familiar items from home to make them feel more comfortable.

Remember that it’s okay to seek support from friends, family, or a support group.

Continuously Evaluating & Adjusting Care

Once your loved one has entered memory care, you can continually evaluate and adjust their care as needed. Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, and the needs of your loved one may change over time.

Stay in communication with the staff in your loved one’s community. If you notice any changes in their behavior or cognitive function, talk to the staff about it and collaborate to find solutions.

Memory care isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Each person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease is unique, and their care should be tailored to their needs.

Memory Care at Peregrine Senior Living

Peregrine Senior Living’s memory care offers specialized care for people experiencing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. We provide a variety of services to help residents with their:

• Physical needs
• Emotional needs
• Cognitive needs

Some of the services provided in our community include:

• Trained personnel available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management
• Cognitive stimulation programs and activities designed to support memory and cognitive function
• Nutritious meals and snacks tailored to residents’ dietary needs
• Medical services and healthcare coordination to ensure residents receive necessary medical care
• Family support and education programs to help families care for loved ones with dementia by providing resources and support

Explore a Community That Feels Like Home 

Transitioning a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease into memory care can be difficult, but it can be made easier with understanding and careful planning.

Remember that you’re not alone, and resources are available to assist you and your loved one during this transition period. 

At Peregrine Senior Living, we strive to create a comfortable and enriching environment specifically for those struggling with cognitive issues. Schedule a visit to explore our community and get to know our team. We’d love to welcome your family into our community.