When is It Time for Memory Care?

The US News & World Reports, states, “More than 6 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer's disease according to the Alzheimer's Association. More than 11 million family members care for someone with dementia, while others with memory issues live in assisted living communities, nursing homes or memory care units.”

The decline of a person with Alzheimer’s slowly worsens over time; and it is not always easy for family members to realize their loved one needs additional support for both their safety and daily living activities. Healthcare providers say memory care may be called for if the person exhibits subtle behavioral changes in personality, declining health and an increase in confusion. Incontinence is another reason families turn to memory care. Moreover the family caregiver should be considered as increasing needs can lead to caregiver burnout. Also memory care provides peace of mind if your loved one is no longer answering their phone or replying to emails.

For some, Alzheimer’s can bring with it dramatic and challenging behavior changes. Your gentle spirited mom or dad may start to exhibit aggressive behaviors that are difficult to deal with. Generally outgoing people may withdraw and avoid socializing. Hygiene can be hit and miss, and the person no longer changes clothes or brushes their hair or teeth.

Other behaviors that change over time can make family caregiving increasingly difficult and time-consuming. Physical safety concerns such as wandering, trying to cook and forgetting to turn off the stove or burning themselves as well as still wanting to drive; can be a constant worry.

Memory care communities like MorningStar of Arvada are equipped to handle these types of problems. To start with, the physical makeup of our distinct Reflections Neighborhood community is designed to safeguard residents from harm and include secure doors with keypads, enclosed courtyards and easy-to-navigate floor plans. Our compassionate, dedicated team is specifically trained to provide care for our most tender residents; and an array of stimulating and/or calming activities helps soothe and engage residents.

Please contact us to learn more about memory care Arvada, CO families can count on. Our MorningStar of Arvada community also offers assisted living for a person who may not be ready for memory care but would flourish from our senior care services. We invite you to schedule a tour to experience firsthand our philosophy and commitment to care for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.