Over the last several decades, there
has been an increased awareness of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related
diseases. Along with efforts to develop
medications to treat or to cure the disease, there has also been a move to advance
best care practices for those suffering from the disease.
In a publication from the Alzheimer’s
Association titled the “Dementia Care
Practice Recommendations for Assisted Living Residences and Nursing Homes,” they
explore ways that professional caregiving can be more effective. Their first recommendation is to make sure a
resident is receiving proper food and fluid consumption. They note that “Inadequate consumption or
inappropriate food and fluid choices can contribute directly to a decline in a
resident’s health and well-being.”
The next point they discuss is pain
management. They cite the fact that many
times people with dementia have trouble communicating pain so it is often
overlooked and not treated. However, the
problem with not managing pain appropriately is that it can “result in
behavioral symptoms and lead to unnecessary use of psychotropic medications.”
Another important practice
recommendation from the report is that assisted living communities provide social
engagement and meaningful activities for memory care residents. By engaging in activities, it helps residents
to retain their functional abilities and thus provides a better quality of
life. These interactions should be designed to do
with residents, not to or for them.
If you are a family member searching
for quality memory care for your loved one, we encourage you to take a look at MorningStar
of Beaverton’s Reflections Neighborhood. We have 38
secure suites devoted to the specialized care of
individuals with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Set within a gentle, loving environment, our
care takes a resident-directed approach that utilizes multi-sensory cues to
calm and to awaken memories, to support capabilities and, above all, to affirm
dignity and value.
MorningStar of Beaverton exemplifies the finest
in senior living with a unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to
invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and
selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for
residents within a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the
most trusted memory care Beaverton Oregon offers.
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