When Is It Time for Memory Care?

If your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, it’s a common question: Is now the right time for memory care? Because Alzheimer’s and dementia progress differently for every person, the timing varies. At first, your loved one may do well with daily tasks and staying home. However, as time passes, your loved one may need more memory care support.

Explore the different signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia and discover if now is the right time for memory care.
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If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, it’s time to talk about memory care. Long-term memory care may be the best choice to give your loved one a safe, healthy place to live.

You’ve noticed problems with mobility.

Reduced mobility affects many aspects of your loved one’s life. For instance, it can cause problems with daily tasks like bathing or toileting. As a caregiver, you may find it difficult to physically help lift or move your loved one for these needs.

Above all, mobility issues put your loved one at risk for injuries due to falls. According to the World Health Organization, more than 37 million people need medical attention after a fall each year. Memory care support facilities can ease these growing concerns. Our Dallas senior living communities help prevent falls and support your loved one’s mobility needs.

Your loved one starts wandering.

The confusion that comes with Alzheimer’s or dementia often leads to wandering. Your loved one may go for a walk and forget which way to go home. Or he or she may wake up in the night confused and wander, putting him or her at risk for an injury.

If your loved one wanders out of the home, it can be a serious situation. That’s why memory care facilities have security measures and staff in place to prevent any memory care resident from wandering. If you’re constantly worrying about your loved one staying safe, memory care communities can help calm your worries.

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Your loved one can’t keep up with daily tasks.

Your loved one forgets medications. Bills occasionally to go unpaid. Dishes are piling up. There are struggles with self-care. Or you’ve noticed the tendency to hoard items. Often, even with the help of a caregiver, daily tasks become difficult. This can lead to an unhealthy living environment.

If these tasks are too much to handle, memory care is often a good fit. A memory care community provides a routine, assistance with daily tasks, and medication management. In general, this more stable situation helps your loved one thrive.

You’ve noticed changes in behavior.

Alzheimer’s or dementia behavior changes cause stress for both you and your loved one. For example, he or she may show increased problems with judgment. Your loved one may become more confused. It’s also common for people with dementia to be easily agitated or aggressive.

When these become an ongoing problem, the Family Caregiver Alliance says your loved one may need 24-hour memory support supervision. Communities have special training to help your loved one cope. They also have resources to keep your loved one safe despite changing behaviors.

Your loved one is isolated.

The American Society on Aging says up to 34 percent of people with dementia are socially isolated. For example, increased confusion may make it hard to get out of the house. Your loved one may become withdrawn. Or they may no longer enjoy the same activities.

Because isolation can make symptoms worse, social interaction is key. Memory care communities have built-in chances to interact. They provide chances to meet new people. And many have daily activities to keep your loved one engaged.

You are overwhelmed as a caregiver.

Eventually, you may get to a point where you can’t provide for all of your loved one’s needs. And that’s normal. The Alzheimer’s Association lists several signs of caregiver stress. From anxiety to exhaustion, if you feel overwhelmed, it’s OK to get help.

Remember, your job is to make sure your loved has the memory care support they need. Often, this is best provided by long-term care options. By choosing memory care, you can focus on your relationship with your loved one instead of all the details of day-to-day care.

Help to navigate memory care.

If these signs sound familiar, Monticello West is ready to help. Our Dallas senior living community provides a safe, caring place for people with memory care needs. Contact us and take the first step toward finding the right care for your loved one.

We’re here to help you navigate the important decisions about providing support for your aging parent. Call (214) 528-0660 and see how we may be able to help.