As our population ages, the prevalence of cognitive conditions, like Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, continues to rise, affecting not only those diagnosed but also their families and caregivers. It’s a journey that can be filled with uncertainty and challenges.
Communities, like Emory Mills Senior Living, that provide memory care play a crucial role in providing specialized support for individuals facing the complexities of cognitive decline.
What is memory care?
Memory care is a level of senior living specifically designed for adults living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia or cognitive decline. Memory care goes beyond what is typically offered in a traditional assisted living or long-term care community by providing 24-hour supervised care with tailored environments, programs and opportunities that instill joy and purpose, and therapies to address the unique needs of those with memory loss.
Additionally, the purpose of memory care is to provide a safe, nurturing environment where individuals with memory impairment can receive the specialized attention they require. Memory care team members are specially trained to handle the distinct challenges associated with cognitive decline, ensuring that residents receive compassionate and competent care.
Although each memory care community is different, here’s what you can typically expect for your loved one living with dementia:
- A private or companion apartment
- Meals and snacks
- Medication management
- Personal care
- Cognitive and physical therapy
- Fitness programs
- Engagement programs
- Housekeeping and laundry services
The benefits of memory care
Enhanced safety and security
Memory care communities like Emory Mills are designed to ensure the safety of residents, featuring secure spaces that prevent wandering, a common and potentially dangerous behavior in those with dementia. These environments are also equipped to handle emergencies and facilitate immediate assistance.
Specialized programs and therapies
Memory care provides stimulating activities that are geared toward preserving cognitive functions and promoting a sense of achievement and normalcy. These may include music therapy, art classes, memory-enhancing games, and physical exercises, all adapted to individual abilities and interests.
Emory Mills uses the Hearthstone Institute’s I’m Still Here ® approach in memory care, which focuses on managing agitation, apathy, anxiety, and aggression, four common behaviors associated with cognitive decline. This innovative, evidence-based, non-pharmacological approach ensures customized care through environmental adaptions, specialized communication techniques, team training, life enrichment programs, and family involvement.
Nutritional support
Proper nutrition can have a significant impact on the overall well-being of individuals living with dementia. Memory care employs team members who are trained to support those with difficulty eating, which can include monitoring nutrition, assistive eating devices, and specially prepared diets.
Assistance with daily living
Memory care teams assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), ranging from basic tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating, to medication management — all of which respect the dignity and independence of each resident.
Social engagement
According to research, isolation can accelerate cognitive decline. Memory care promotes social interactions through organized group activities and communal spaces that encourage residents to engage with each other and maintain social connections.
At Emory Mills, a specially trained team offers three distinct levels of programming, geared toward each resident’s cognitive abilities and dementia stage. Each level, the discovery, vitality, and serenity experience, provides activities and engagement opportunities, with appropriate modifications and adjustments to account for each resident’s individual needs and preferences.
Family support and education
Memory care communities also offer resources and support for families and caregivers, providing education on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, counseling, and support groups.
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Reduced caregiver burnout
The round-the-clock care provided by professionals in memory care communities can alleviate the physical and emotional strain on family caregivers, reducing stress and allowing them to maintain their health and well-being.
Memory care enhances quality of life
Selecting a memory care community for a loved one is an important decision that can significantly affect their quality of life and the peace of mind of their family. By understanding the specialized purpose and benefits of memory care, caregivers, and families can choose with confidence, knowing they are providing their loved ones with an environment tailored to their unique needs.
Find compassionate care and specialized support at Emory Mills
Offering a scenic view of the valley with the convenience of city living, family-owned Emory Mills provides assisted living and memory care to older adults. The comforting, secure, and homelike environment supports each individual with person-centered care and the specialized and research-based I’m Still Here ® approach to meaningful and purposeful living, also known as The Hearthstone Difference.
Download our “Understanding and Navigating Memory Care: A Comprehensive Guide” for free to learn more about memory care for your loved one.
