And while we're at it just what is a memory care facility?
Great Questions!
Let's start with "What is a memory care facility?"
Memory care facilities are designed to care for people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or some other type of dementia. Most of these facilities have put a lot of thought and research into the design of the building including lighting, colors, layout, etc. All of these design features are used to help the residents move easily and freely around the facility or community as I like to call them.
Many of the communities create a home like feel with a central kitchen so that the resident will feel at home. Colors may be used to redirect a resident to a different area. Though the community is a locked facility they do a wonderful job of disguising that so that the residents do not feel locked in. Secure garden areas are created to allow residents to go outside whenever they would like giving a sense of freedom.
Special programs and activities are designed to help a resident be the very best they can be at their stage in the disease. Most of these communities are small and the larger ones may be broken into several smaller communities. This makes it easier for residents to get into a routine with the staff and other residents.
Now,does your dad need memory care? That is a loaded question. There are a lot of different situations to consider when deciding whether to place someone in a memory care environment. A few questions you might ask would be:
- Is my parent or loved one a wander risk? if they got outside by themselves could they get lost. If the answer is yes, a memory care facility should be considered
- Has Mom or Dad exhibited any behavior problems such as uncontrolled bursts of anger,possibly even hurting themselves or someone they love. This would be a reason that it is time to look at a move.
- Is your parent no longer able to use good judgement, taking off clothes in public, throwing food or other behaviors that would indicate they are unable to use good judgement.
All of these would indicate strong reasons that it may be time for a move to a memory care facility. This is not an easy decision to make but if you have a parent with these problems they are counting on you to make the best decisions regarding their care.
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